A Brief Overview Of Some Popular Nutritional Supplements And Nutraceuticals

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.

Blue-green algae and green foods: products such as chlorella, spirulina, barleygrass and wheatgrass have a powerful anti-inflammatory effect and are exploding in popularity among health-savvy consumers. They all contain very high concentrations of the compound chlorophyll, which in addition to the benefits already mentioned, also oxygenates the blood and has a strong deodorizing action.

Fish oil: Numerous studies have been conducted into the effects of fish oil consumption on human health. Simply put, it is one of the best all-round nutrients one can take. It has been found to combat inflammation, have a positive effect on bone health, brain health, preserve muscle mass and have marked anti-ageing properties. To cap it all, it is an inexpensive nutrient that even people on a budget can afford.

Coenzyme Q10: this anti-oxidant powerhouse is relatively new to the supplement scene and is deserving of its huge popularity. Its main effects are on the mitochondria of the body's cells. This helps the body with energy production and is also thought by some researchers to aid with extending lifespan.

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.




About the Author:



0 comments:

Post a Comment