Top 5 Best Supplements to Take for Better Health

What's the best supplement for you?

The new year has begun, which means it's time for lists: here's a list of our 5 favorite supplements that we've seen patients benefit from the most.

1. Whole Food Multivitamin - the best source of nutrition is whole foods. The second best source of nutrition is whole foods in tablet form (not the synthetically-derived vitamin components sold in high doses at the drug store). We like Catalyn because Standard Process has perfected the process of raising it's own organic produce and tests every step of the way to make sure it's multivitamin provides the best nutrition.
2. Omega 3 Fish or Krill Oils - omega 3 fish oils are one of the most anti-inflammatory foods you can eat, but most of us are not including them in the diet. If you're not eating wild fatty fish regularly, include a high quality fish or krill oil.
3. Probiotics - researchers continue to find more links between our microbiome (bugs living in and on our bodies) and a variety of health issues involving digestion, regularity, immunity, skin health, mental health, arthritis, obesity, auto-immunity and more! Include healthy bugs in your diet on a regular basis by eating fermented foods or taking probiotics.
4. Vitamin D - the importance of vitamin D has been well established, but 80-90% of our patients tested for vitamin D with blood work show insufficient levels. Is that a surprise in less-than-sunny Northeast Ohio? There are few food sources high in vitamin D, and most of us don't spend enough time in the sun to produce adequate levels. Take vitamin D to keep your levels up to par.
5. High Quality Protein Powder - a smoothie can be a quick and easy nutritious meal when you're in a hurry (or have time to enjoy it). Start with a minimally processed whey protein powder (not isolate) without added junk like processed sweeteners, colors, artificial flavors, etc. Combine with fruits and other good ingredients for a delicious meal.

For the most benefit, take your supplements with healthy meals as much as possible. A variety of other supplements can be helpful for specific needs, but these are the best supplements for most of us.

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