Why Using Nutritional Supplements And Nutraceuticals Is A Rapidly Expanding Lifestyle Choice

By Tiffany Gill


The market for nutritional supplements and nutraceuticals is a vast and growing one. In the US alone, the dietary supplement market is estimated at around $25 billion. People today, particularly baby boomers, are much more health-conscious and are willing to spend a considerable amount of their disposable income on being healthier. This brief article will look at six popular supplements and how they can benefit the health of those who take them.

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.

Fish oil: much scientific research has demonstrated the positive effects of fish oil on human health. It is easily one of the best nutrients for all-round health. Among other things, it is beneficial for bone health, inflammation, brain health and has demonstrated anti-ageing effects. What is more, good quality fish oil is an inexpensive and widely available product.

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: this is another relative newcomer that is being increasingly researched for its many potential medicinal uses. It is derived from the spice turmeric that most know as a curry ingredient. Many now know it as an anti-inflammatory compound that can be of great help to those suffering with conditions such as gout or arthritis. It also appears to be beneficial for heart health and is being extensively studied as a potential cancer-fighting compound.

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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