5 Supplements for Total-Body Health
Nourish your body from head to toe with these key nutrients that support longevity and healthy aging.
The relationship between nutrition and health is complicated. Even if you eat a balanced, nutritious diet, it can be difficult to consume enough different foods to check every nutritional box. Thus we offer suggestions on the top supplements to help your body get the nutrition it requires.
Vitamin D
Although vitamin D can be obtained from some foods, such as dairy, fish and mushrooms, studies show that diet alone isn’t enough to keep blood levels of D between 40–60 ng/ml. This guideline is recommended by national and international scientists with GrassrootsHealth, a nonprofit public-health organization dedicated to vitamin D research.
Calcium
Health experts advise getting as much of the recommended 1,000 milligrams per day of calcium from diet as possible and supplementing the rest. For those who avoid dairy, leafy greens such as kale are good options. Most milk substitutes, such as almond and soy, are fortified with calcium, too.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 (also called cobalamin) is necessary for a healthy nervous system, DNA and RNA synthesis, as well as a strong immune system and healthy brain. It’s found only in animal-based foods, including sardines, lamb and beef, as well as raw cheese and cottage cheese, so those who eat vegan or vegetarian diets may want to supplement.
Omega-3s
Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are long-chain omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, mackerel and trout. Primarily known for their heart-health benefits, omega-3s also benefit brain and eye health, and may reduce symptoms of depression, studies show.
Anti-Aging
Supplements that include plant-based nutrients known as phytonutrients have antioxidant benefits that protect our bodies from the free-radical damage that contributes to aging. A good anti-aging supplement contains a variety of nutrients benefiting the skin, as well as the heart, joints and more. Look for one that contains vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant known for fighting damage from environmental toxins.
