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Monday, December 30, 2013

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

By Tiffany Gill


Nutritional supplements and nutraceuticals now make up a huge and expanding sector of consumer spending. In the United States spending in this area is estimated to in the region of twenty-five billion dollars a year. Affluent consumers, particularly baby boomers, are a key demographic that is driving this market. The following is a brief overview of some popular products and their positive health 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.

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 a supplement that is rapidly growing in popularity. It is a powder derived from turmeric, best known as the ingredient that gives curry its distinctive yellow color. It has a strong anti-inflammatory action and can be helpful for those suffering with conditions such as arthritis, tendinitis, carpal tunnel syndrome and gout. It has also shown to be beneficial for cardiovascular health and shows great promise as an anti-cancer compound.

Probiotics: poor digestive function is the bane of many older people in the developed world. Symptoms like bloating, constipation and gas are all-too common and indicate problems in the digestive tract. A lack of good bacteria in the gut is often to blame, and this can be restored with a good probiotic. It should be noted that here are many different kinds available, and consumers may have to experiment to find one that suits them.

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.

The demand for nutritional supplements and nutraceuticals will only increase in the immediate future. Millions of people the world over are waking up to the benefits of being proactive in their health choices. By supplementing with critical nutrients they are positioning themselves that much better for longer, healthier lives.




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