With many of us increasingly aware of how diet and lifestyle can affect our health, vitamins and supplements have become increasingly popular, especially with the wellness-focused. With a vast range of options from hundreds of manufacturers, it can be hard to know which supplements are most beneficial, most searched for, most in demand and, most importantly: most likely to help you reach the goal you seek. To make things easier, we’ve compiled a list of the ten most searched for vitamins and supplements on the market today.
Vitamin C
Topping our list is Vitamin C. A natural antioxidant found in fruits and vegetables, this essential vitamin offers many, many a benefit, including support for heart health, immunity, and skin repair. It’s known to help maintain energy levels throughout the day, not to mention providing a boost in cognitive performance. Best taken as part of your daily multi-vitamin regimen, Vitamin C is widely available in both pill form or as an ingredient in fortified foods: cereals, juices, and soups.
Omega-3
Second up are Omega-3s. Not only do they provide multiple health benefits, such as maintaining healthy cholesterol levels, but they are also credited with providing protection against age-related cognitive decline while lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease.
B Vitamins
B vitamins come third. Most commonly found in animal sources such as red meat, poultry, or fish, they can also be taken in supplement form by those who don’t consume enough animal products. B vitamins play a crucial role in metabolic processes such as turning carbohydrates into energy that the body uses throughout the day, making them ideal for very active people or anyone seeking to boost their performance during endurance-heavy exercise.
Iron
Fourth place goes to iron – essential for carrying oxygen around the body and aiding muscle function. Studies have shown that avoiding iron deficiency may help reduce fatigue, making iron a crucial mineral if increased energy levels or maximized physical performance are what you’re after.
Magnesium
Most commonly found in nuts and dark leafy greens, magnesium takes spot number five. It not only helps maintain optimal muscle contraction, but can also support sleep quality by relaxing the muscles, which allows you to drift off quickly without tossing and turning all night. Magnesium comes in many formulations, including magnesium citrate, magnesium oxide, magnesium chloride, magnesium lactate, magnesium malate, magnesium, L-threonate, magnesium sulfate, magnesium glycinate, and others. Make sure to do your research and understand which formulation is best for you.
Calcium
In sixth place is calcium. Most commonly found in dairy products and leafy greens, it plays a crucial role in bone formation and maintenance. Studies have shown that sufficient calcium intake can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis, a condition where bones become brittle and more prone to breaking. It’s also beneficial for dental health; most of our teeth are made up of calcium, which is why we need to ensure we’re taking in enough of it as part of our daily diet.
Zinc
Seventh place goes to zinc, most commonly found in lean meats, seafood, and nuts. This essential mineral has been credited with helping support normal growth and development, healthy skin, and proper immune system functioning. It also acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from the potential damage caused by free radicals coursing through our bodies.
Vitamin D
Eighth on our list is Vitamin D, which is most commonly found in fortified foods or taken in supplement form, and helps regulate the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body – both important minerals needed to keep bones strong and healthy. Studies have also suggested that Vitamin D may play a role in reducing cancer risk and inflammation levels throughout the body, thus stymying chronic diseases such as heart disease or diabetes.
Folic Acid
Ninth is folic acid. Most commonly found in fortified foods like breads, cereals, pastas, and juices, it can also be taken as a supplement if you’re not getting enough of it via food. Folic acid helps support red-blood-cell production while aiding DNA synthesis, making it a crucial supplement for preventing birth defects such as spina bifida or anencephaly.
Probiotics
Tenth place goes to probiotics, which are commonly ingested via yogurt, sauerkraut, kim chi or other fermented foods, but also exist in pill form. The good-for-you bacteria in probiotics can improve digestion, boost immunity, improve cognitive function, and support overall health. There are many types of probiotics available on the market, so be sure to do your research before deciding which one best suits your needs.
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