Health supplements carry many benefits, and they can be broken down into several categories. For this article’s purposes, we will look at three different sub-categories: vitamin supplements, herbal supplements, and amino acids. Each category is unique in its own right, and, carries a plethora of health benefits.
Vitamin supplements are perhaps the most common among all dietary supplements. They are typically taken with food, and broken down in the stomach during the digestion process. Some vitamins are water soluble – such as vitamin B, and vitamin C. Some, however are fat soluble, and can only be properly absorbed if taken with fats and proteins that help to breakdown the nutrients during digestion. Vitamins like Vitamin K are fat soluble.
Once broke down in the body, vitamins perform multiple functions to keep your body running efficiently, and effectively. Some of the functions provided by B and C vitamins are a healthy immune system, a higher level of energy, lower overall stress levels, and an efficient metabolism. Other vitamins, like Vitamin D, ensure proper calcium absorption for stronger, healthier bones. Vitamin D can also promote a better overall mood. Supplementing with Vitamin K can prevent birth complications and the onset of osteoporosis.
Herbs play a large role in our overall health as well. Supplementing with things like St’ John’s Wort and Kava can help to prevent the onset of anxiety. They can even work wonders for those already suffering from mild to moderate depression. Saw Palmetto, a supplement long used by men, provides phyto-nutrients that help to support sexual wellness and prostate health. Finally, herbs like Green Tea have a plethora of positive effects. Green Tea can help you lose weight and decrease your overall appetite. It also has strong antioxidant properties that can prevent sickness, and, its alkaloid properties can actually serve as a fine herbal remedy for acid reflux.
Last but not least, amino acids play a huge role in our overall health. L-glutamine is exceptionally important for muscle support and growth. It is the main protein building block with regards to muscle formation in the body. L-tyrosine can be great for anxiety and depression – and has recently shown some progress in its ability to treat obsessive compulsive disorder symptoms, additionally. Finally, GABA, has been known to promote a healthy night’s sleep, increase the ability to remember dreams, and decrease anxiety in those who take it regularly. Some research also suggests that it increases HGH, which can help to reduce fat levels in the body and increase testosterone. All of these claims, or course, will require more testing and experimentation before they can carry full validity.
Paul Guenther is a Blogger for the Health Supplements Blog. Learn more about increasing energy and supplementing your diet efficiently with Discount Supplements from Freaky Nutrition.