Our supplement requirements are based on our individual health status. While some of us may need a boost of the sunshine vitamin – Vitamin D, some others may do well with more of Vitamin B12. So, the question is how should we get these nutrients?
“It is highly recommended that we try to get our nutrients from food but sometimes we may fall short and that is when nutritional supplements come in. Plant-based supplements, for one, have been proven to be efficient in improving overall health by providing optimum amounts of essential nutrients,” said Dr Chetan Savaliya, Director of Satvam Nutrition.
5 Plant-Based Nutritional Supplements for Overall Health
Multivitamin
“Multivitamin deficiency shows up in simplest things such as brittle hair and nails and may also present itself in the form of restless leg syndrome or poor night vision. Multivitamin deficiency is probably one of the most common deficiencies that we hear about. It is caused by a deficiency of one or more of the vital vitamins that our body needs,” said Dr Savalia, adding, it can be treated with a plant-based multivitamin supplement that covers all the required vitamins and provides relief from the symptoms.
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Minerals
“Mineral deficiency can lead to a plethora of health problems. It can cause fatigue, weak immune system and weak bones. Some of the most common mineral deficiencies that hamper our health and well-being include calcium deficiency, iron deficiency, magnesium deficiency, potassium deficiency and zinc deficiency,” said Dr Savalia.
“All the minerals listed here are found in small amounts in dietary sources. So, a well-balanced diet can easily take care of mineral deficiencies but if it doesn’t, plant-based nutritional supplements can do the job,” he added.
Vitamin D
According to the National Library of Medicine, vitamin D insufficiency has been related to weariness, bone discomfort, muscular weakness, hair loss, and a variety of other common ailments. While sunlight is the finest source of Vitamin D, we may not get enough of it for a variety of reasons. Plant-based vitamin D supplements can effectively fill the gap and promote overall health by alleviating symptoms.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
According to Dr Savaliya, Omega-3 fatty acids are extremely good for heart health. They are known as healthy fats and are extremely beneficial in lowering triglycerides. Omega-3 fatty acids are essentially a part of our cells and are responsible for energy levels, heart health, lungs efficiency and even the performance of the immune system. A deficiency of the healthy fats can cause joint pain and stiffness, depression, dry skin, dry eyes and brittle nails. Plant-based Omega-3 fatty acids can tremendously help in improving the overall health by fixing the symptoms and preventing major health problems.
Probiotics & Prebiotics
Prebiotics are plant-fibres. They travel through your stomach to your digestive tract, which is where the action happens. Prebiotics produce lactic acid and short-chain fatty acids which improve overall digestion and our gut microbiome. There are many food items that are rich in prebiotics. These include oats, fruits, vegetables and soya beans. The most beneficial foods for prebiotics are bananas, apples, kiwis, onions, leeks, chicory, and asparagus.
Probiotics help with the digestion of food by producing digestive enzymes. Additionally, they contribute towards immune system function, facilitate efficient detoxification, promote skin health, and generate neurotransmitters when they travel to the brain. Some foods naturally contain probiotics.
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These include fermented foods such as kombucha, plant-based yoghurts, and cucumber, mustard leaves, and radish. Both prebiotics and probiotics can be excellently supplemented with plant-based nutritional supplements.
Six Essential Nutrients that are Crucial for Holistic Well-Being
It is quite well known that our body needs vitamins, minerals, protein, fats, water and carbohydrates in optimum quantities for growth and good health. We need to consume these on a daily basis through a well-balanced diet. Any deficiency in these, can cause health issues that may hamper a normal routine life.
Individuals with certain medical conditions or digestive issues may fail to absorb the nutrients naturally and hence, may need to fulfil their nutritional requirements with the help of nutritional supplements. Plant-based supplements make for an all-natural and safe option. They are made from plant extracts and do not contain any harmful chemicals that may cause side effects. To top it all, they are fully science-backed and are recommended by top health-care practitioners for their efficacy.
Plant-based supplements cover all the nutrients listed above along with some other nutrients and micronutrients. Talk to your doctor about them to find out how consuming nutritional supplements can improve the quality of your life and he/she may also direct you towards the best plant-based nutritional supplements brand.
Do remember, before starting to consume any dietary supplements, it is important to speak to a doctor about any existing medical conditions and medications. A dietician or nutritionist can also help in setting the diet along with the supplement dose.