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The Supplements That ACTUALLY WORK

author avatar Dr. Eric Berg 12/23/2024

The Supplements That ACTUALLY WORK

Finding the best supplements for health conditions can feel overwhelming. With so much information online, it’s hard to know what to trust, especially since mainstream research often overlooks natural remedies.

Many seek alternatives to traditional medicine. Supplements can play a valuable role in holistic health. But with so many options, knowing which supplements might help can be challenging.

This guide explores the best supplements for health conditions based on years of practical experience and observation.

Understanding Supplement Research

The supplement industry isn’t always transparent. “Evidence-based” research can be misleading. Studies on natural remedies often face funding hurdles.

Commercial remedies have significant financial backing. Natural remedies often lack resources for large-scale clinical trials. This doesn’t mean natural supplements are ineffective; they may not have been rigorously studied.

Why Personal Experience Matters

Observational experience, combined with nutritional understanding, can be as valuable as formal research.

This post reflects observations from working with many people, noting what truly makes a difference. It also leverages insight from fact sheets on dietary supplements.

We'll start with an overview of some of the best health supplements for supporting various conditions. Consider these potential benefits as you embark on your journey towards better health.

Vitamin supplements in spoons

Best Supplements for Health Conditions: A Deep Dive

Let's explore some of the best supplements for specific health conditions, starting with vitamin D.

Vitamin D: The Sunshine Vitamin

Many struggle to absorb enough vitamin D. Age, weight, insulin resistance, and limited sun exposure all contribute to this. These absorption challenges affect how our bodies use essential health supplements.

Consider supplementing with vitamin D3, possibly at higher doses than typically recommended, ranging from 10,000 IUs up to 50,000 IUs daily depending on individual needs.

This fat-soluble vitamin provides essential support to overall well-being, from ensuring red blood cell production to aiding heart health. Best Anti-Aging Supplements For Bone Health and Osteoporosis offers more details about vitamin D.

Pair vitamin D3 with magnesium, zinc, and vitamin K2 for optimal absorption. Getting enough folic acid is also crucial, especially for DNA production and cell division.

Magnesium Glycinate: Your Body's Calming Agent

Magnesium glycinate is highly absorbable. It's also crucial for vitamin D effectiveness, which needs sufficient magnesium. Many morning discomforts, like leg cramps, foot cramps, and increased heart attack risks, are often related to magnesium deficiency.

Magnesium, an electrolyte and mineral supplement, is essential for heart health. It helps regulate blood pressure and promotes healthy blood sugar levels.

Because higher cortisol and adrenaline prevent restful sleep, magnesium’s stress-reducing properties are beneficial. Target higher doses, up to 1000 milligrams daily, in divided doses if you don’t experience loose stools.

Incorporate leafy green vegetables, grain products, and fermented foods into your diet for additional magnesium intake. Pay close attention to product labels for dosage information.

Betaine Hydrochloride: For Digestive Support

If you experience heartburn or indigestion, consider betaine hydrochloride. Contrary to popular belief, heartburn may result from low stomach acid, which hinders proper valve closure. Stomach acid is important for overall good health.

Betaine hydrochloride increases stomach acid, aiding digestion. This helps keep the valve closed, preventing food and acid reflux.

Sometimes, a higher dose before a meal is needed due to varying betaine hydrochloride concentrations. Consult a health professional for personalized guidance regarding dosage.

Different supplements on a table

Other Essential Supplements

Now, let’s explore other beneficial supplements.

Supplement

Benefit

Zinc Carnosine

Soothes ulcers and gastritis.

Selenium

Supports immune function and may help with autoimmune thyroid issues. A good source is one Brazil nut per day.

Vitamin B1 (and Benfotiamine)

Reduces nervous tension and restless leg syndrome. Benfotiamine targets nerve health in the extremities. Pair these with adequate magnesium intake.

CoQ10

Essential for those on statins, which deplete this vital coenzyme.

Vitamin E (Tocotrienols)

It combats fibrosis, supports artery health, Combats fibrosis, supports artery health, and may improve infertility.

Tutka

Addresses thickened bile and certain neurological concerns.

Iodine

It can regulate excess estrogen and help with fibrocystic breasts.

Vitamin C

Excellent for collagen production and gum health.

Biotin

Supports healthy hair, skin, and nails.

Manganese

It may help those with Tourette's syndrome and tics.

NAC

Assists with liver detoxification, particularly after excessive Tylenol use.

Addressing Specific Health Concerns with Best Supplements

Specific health conditions may benefit from tailored supplementation. Finding the right protocol often involves trial and error under medical supervision.

Autoimmune Diseases and Supplements

Autoimmune issues often involve inflammation. Vitamin D's anti-inflammatory properties make it potentially helpful for managing inflammation. It also regulates the immune system, potentially moderating overactive responses. 

Eye Health, Joint, and Skin Issues

Vitamin D can help with glaucoma and other eye conditions. It may also benefit deep bone or joint pain, especially in the lower back or hips. Additionally, certain skin issues like hair loss or dermatitis often improve with vitamin D.

For chronic coughs, consider a small amount of calcium lactate. However, use high-dose calcium with caution due to long-term safety concerns. High doses of calcium can increase your risk for cardiovascular disease.

Excessive calcium may also interfere with the absorption of other minerals, especially if the supplements people take contain high levels of calcium.

Optimizing Supplement Use

Several common issues, particularly gut and joint problems, might improve with supplements.

Boosting Gut Health with Best Supplements

Excessive diet soda consumption disrupts gut flora. Probiotics are key for restoring beneficial bacteria. They crowd out harmful strains, aiding recovery. Cockroaches can also affect health. Balancing gut flora with quality probiotics remains crucial.

Be cautious when taking high-iron supplements. Iron is best sourced from food like red meat, liver, and fortified foods. Some people who don't eat fish may not be getting enough fatty acids in their diets and would benefit from supplementation.

Joint Support

Top Anti-Aging Supplements For Healthy Joints and Osteoarthritis discusses supplements for healthier joints.

Additional Tips for Using Supplements:

  • Melatonin may offer short-term relief for chronic sleep disturbances. Start with low doses and seek professional guidance, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications. Be mindful of the potential for long-term harm from chronic use.

  • If using statins, supplement with CoQ10. Statins deplete this vital coenzyme. Also, vitamin E tocotrienols or Tutka bile salts should be considered for overall well-being. Tutka aids detoxification. This could benefit older people especially and improve their quality of life. Many of the supplements people seek help alleviate symptoms caused by having too little vitamin D. Many older adults do not get enough of this vital vitamin from fish liver or eating oily fish and so must supplement.

  • For liver health, consider NAC and Milk Thistle. NAC is beneficial after a Tylenol overdose.

  • If taking NSAIDs regularly, discuss supportive herbs or supplements with a healthcare provider. They can help manage potential risks.

Conclusion

 

This exploration of the best supplements for health conditions offers a starting point. Reclaiming well-being might start with a single vitamin or mineral.

Individualizing supplement protocols based on lab results and medical supervision is crucial. You are not merely addressing symptoms; you’re investing in a healthier, potentially longer life.

FAQs about best supplements for health conditions

Which supplement is best for overall health?

Pinpointing one "best" supplement is challenging as individual needs vary. However, vitamin D is often cited due to its widespread benefits for immune function, bone health, and mood.

Consulting a healthcare professional is crucial to determine the best supplement for your overall health.

What are the top 3 supplements for health?

The "top 3" can vary. Many consider vitamin D, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids a strong foundation. Vitamin D has various benefits. Magnesium helps vitamin D function correctly, and Omega-3s fight inflammation.

What supplements are actually worth taking?

Many supplements exist. Multivitamin-Multiminerals address nutrient gaps from restrictive diets or depleted soil. Addressing vitamin D deficiency can positively impact various physiological systems.

Fish oil is also valuable due to its high omega-3 content, especially if you don't eat fish. Start slowly with supplements such as these. Creatine can be beneficial for supporting muscle gain.

Remember, not everyone reacts favorably to supplements or dietary recommendations that recommend eating foods that individuals are sensitive to.

What is the most important supplement for longevity?

No supplement guarantees longevity. However, nutrients like nicotinamide, riboside, berberine, and resveratrol show promise. Always consult your doctor for personalized advice on dosage and potential interactions with prescription drugs.

Your doctor may run tests to check levels of vitamins such as B12 or to check the levels in red blood cells for certain minerals or even assess high doses of certain prescription medications that could pose risk when adding certain supplements.

This ensures that even the best supplements for any given health condition remain safe.

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