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According to experts, about one in three people in the US are at risk of anemia or a vitamin deficiency. In addition, studies found that women appear to be at an even greater risk than men.

Either way, having anemia or a nutritional deficiency can result in other health woes. For example, it can lead to chronic disease development, thus; shortening one’s lifespan.

Fortunately, the best health supplements may help combat such nutritional inadequacies.

With that said, we came up with this guide on the top nutritional supplements you might want to give a try today. So, read on to discover what they are and how they can help you live a healthier, longer life.

Iron Supplements

On a global scale, about one in four people have anemia. Of these individuals, around half have iron deficiency anemia (IDA).

Anemia occurs when a person has inadequate red blood cells (RBCs). In many cases, a lack of RBCs arises from having too little iron in the body.

That makes iron deficiency one of the most common nutritional deficiencies worldwide. It’s also more common among women, vegetarians, and vegans.

IDA symptoms often include lethargy, tiredness, muscle weakness, and fatigue. Moreover, it can weaken the immune system, thus; raising one’s risk for diseases.

So, if you’re low on iron yourself, it’s time to up your intake of iron, which you can find in red and organ meat. Shellfish, beans, seeds, and dark, leafy greens are other good dietary sources of iron.

You can also talk to your doctor about iron supplements if you can’t always eat iron-filled meals. Don’t worry, as some of the best multivitamin supplements are vegetarian- and vegan-friendly. You can find more information here on such non-animal-sourced supplements.

Iodine Supplements

Iodine, an essential mineral, is crucial to the manufacture of thyroid hormones. These hormones help in the growth and repair of cells. They also promote a healthy metabolism.

Unfortunately, iodine deficiency (ID) affects approximately 2 billion people worldwide.

Goiter, an abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland, is the most common symptom of ID. It causes the front of the neck to swell, which can then lead to a feeling of tightness around the throat area. Some people with goiter also get dizzy when they raise their arms above their head.

Goiter may also result in an increased heart rate and shortness of breath. Worse, it can lead to weight gain, raising one’s risk of developing obesity. Obesity, in turn, is a factor in chronic health conditions, lower quality of life, and mortality.

Furthermore, severe iodine deficiency can cause serious harm, especially in kids. For instance, it can cause mental retardation. Researchers also link it to developmental problems and lowered IQ in children.

The good news is that you can find iodine in seaweed, fish, dairy products, and eggs. You can also get it through iodine-fortified table salt. In addition, many multivitamin supplements contain this essential mineral.

Vitamin D Supplements

According to experts, vitamin D is essential to calcium and phosphorus regulation. In that way, it helps in the development, function, and maintenance of the bones. All that makes it one of the good vitamins for the healthy aging of the bones.

Moreover, adequate vitamin D levels seem to help protect against flu. It also appears to contribute to healthier pregnancies.

The bad news is that severe vitamin D deficiency affects a quarter of the US population. Some of these individuals develop fatigue, low mood, and bone and back pain. Others also experience impaired wound healing due to vitamin D inadequacy.

One thing that makes vitamin D deficiency common is that few foods contain this nutrient. The best sources include cod liver oil, fatty fish, and egg yolks, which not everyone eats.

Therefore, vitamin D supplementation may be a good idea if you lack this nutrient. Talk to your doctor about taking supplements and increasing your sun exposure.

Vitamin B Complex Supplements

The vitamin B complex consists of eight types of B vitamins. They all play roles in cell health and energy, but they also have specific functions in the body. For that reason, the symptoms you may experience depend on the B vitamin you lack.

However, one of the most common deficiencies is vitamin B 12, also known as cobalamin. A lack of this B vitamin can result in nervous and circulatory system problems. For instance, it can lead to megaloblastic anemia, dementia, depression, and paranoia.

A lack of vitamin B 9, also known as folate, is another common B vitamin deficiency. The thing is, folate is integral in making and repairing DNA and producing red blood cells. As such, too low levels of this particular B vitamin can also lead to anemia.

The good news is that some supplements contain the entire vitamin B complex. Talk to your doctor about taking these multivitamins if you lack one or more B vitamins.

Calcium Supplements

Over 3.5 billion people worldwide are at risk of being deficient in calcium. Unfortunately, calcium deficiency can lead to rickets, osteomalacia, and osteoporosis. All three bone disorders can make people more prone to fractures and deformities.

In addition, calcium functions as a signaling molecule. So, if not for this mineral, the heart, muscles, and nerves won’t function properly. For the same reason, long-term calcium deficiency can become life-threatening.

Moreover, some researchers found evidence linking calcium deficiency with mood disorders. Those include depression, paranoia, and delusions, to name a few. Some people with calcium deficiency have also exhibited mental retardation and memory issues.

As such, it’s crucial to get enough calcium from sources such as dairy and green leafy veggies. You can also get it from food fortified with calcium. You can further increase your intake by taking supplements containing this mineral.

Start Taking the Best Health Supplements for a Happier, Longer Life

Please keep in mind that chronic health conditions can reduce one’s quality of life. Worse, such disorders can lead to a shorter lifespan.

All those are good enough reasons to consider taking the best health supplements. That way, you can prevent nutritional deficiencies that give rise to health woes. In turn, the healthier you are, the happier and longer your life may be.

Did you like this informative article? If so, then you’re sure to love our other educational health and wellness posts!

By admin