A Brief Overview Of Some Popular Nutritional Supplements And Nutraceuticals

By Tiffany Gill


Nutritional supplements and nutraceuticals now make up a huge and expanding market among consumers. It is estimated to be worth around $25 billion dollars each year in the US alone. Much of this demand is being driven by affluent baby boomers and younger consumers who are willing to invest in their health and longevity. This short article will cover six nutritional supplements and some of their main benefits.

Green foods: foods such as wheat grass, barley grass, chlorella and spirulina have demonstrated a marked beneficial effect on cholesterol levels, blood pressure and inflammation. Much of this is thought to be due their high levels of the compound chlorophyll. In addition to these benefits, it also helps the blood to carry oxygen and is a powerful internal deodorizer.

Cod liver and fish oil: reams of studies have been published documenting the health benefits of fish oil. Taking it is simply one of the smartest health choices one can make. It has been shown to positively impact brain health, skeletal health and inflammation. It is rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fats and has demonstrated anti-ageing properties. Good quality fish oil is also relatively cheap and freely available.

CoQ10: this is a powerful anti-oxidant and an essential nutrient for cellular health. It has been shown to have positive effects on cardiovascular health, inflammation, and energy production. Also, CoQ10's beneficial effects on the mitochondria of the body's cells is thought by some anti-ageing experts to be a critical aspect of life extension.

Curcumin: the promise shown by this ancient spice as an anti-cancer agent has made headlines in recent years. It is also a powerful anti-inflammatory that can be of great benefit to those suffering with inflammation-related health issues. It is thought to do this by reducing or inhibiting levels of an enzyme known as COX-2. It is also thought to assuage inflammation by stimulating the adrenal glands to release more of the natural steroid cortisone.

Pro-biotics: huge numbers of middle-aged and older people in the US suffer with poor digestive function. Symptoms such as gas, constipation and bloating are indications that one's digestive system is not working well. This is often due to a lack of good bacteria in the gut. This can be remedied by taking a pro-biotic which will replenish intestinal flora and help restore optimal digestive function.

Glucosamine sulphate: this is one of the most popular supplements with older people, and with good reason. It is a substance that naturally occurs in healthy cartilage and has been shown to relieve joint pain, improve mobility and help slow osteoarthritis-related damage to the joints. This compound may however interact with drugs such as diuretics and blood thinners so it is important for those considering taking it to consult their physician first.

These six products and other nutritional supplements and nutraceuticals will continue to take an expanding slice of consumer spending well into the future. With ever-increasing health-care costs, savvy consumers the world over are taking greater control of their primary health needs. By making smart choices about what they put into their bodies they are taking the best steps possible towards a long, disease-free life.




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