Health supplements
CBD Oil
CBD is short for Cannabidiol and is a naturally occurring remedy found in the marijuana or cannabis plant. CBD is sometimes mistaken for THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive element of the plant, which causes the 'high' people experience from smoking it. However, CBD is not psychoactive. CBD is most commonly used for pain relief and anxiety. It is made by extracting CBD from the plant and combining it with hemp seed oil or coconut oil. Some studies suggest CBD can help: Anxiety and depression Chronic pain Insomnia Arthritis Skin CBD oil comes in many supplement forms, such as capsules, drops, tablets and gummies. There are even balms made with CBD oil to use on the skin instead of orally. People also asked How much CBD oil should I take? The amount of CBD you should take depends on various factors, including your body weight, the condition and the concentration of CBD in the supplement. It's best to start with smaller doses and then gradually increase it. Taking 10 to 20mg is recommended when starting, and if tolerated, then slowly increase by 5mg. Always read the label on the supplements – oils, gummies and capsules contain different strengths and will differ in advice. When should I take CBD oil, morning or night? The best time of day differs between individuals. CBD oil makes some people feel awake and energised, so best taken in the morning or early afternoon for an energy boost. Others find CBD oil helps them to relax and may take it in the evenings or before bed. How long does it take for CBD oil to work for joint pain? Depending on the form of CBD oil supplement you take, effects may be felt in 15 – 45 minutes. Taking CBD oil drops placed under the tongue will work the fastest as it is absorbed into the bloodstream quicker.
Cod Liver Oil
Cod liver oil is one of the most common supplements. As the name suggests, it is the fatty oil extracted from the livers of codfish. It contains vitamins A and D and is rich in omega 3. Vitamin D is vital for supporting healthy bones and teeth, while vitamin A promotes healthy skin and eye health and Omega 3 contributes to heart and brain health. Cod liver oil is a great, versatile supplement providing a lot of benefits for the body. As well as boosting physical health, cod liver oil can boost your mood. Studies have shown that the omega 3 in the supplement contributes to lower anxiety and improved cognitive function, including memory improvement. Unless your diet consists of fatty codfish livers, you will struggle to obtain cod liver oil from a natural source. However, you can ensure your diet consists of naturally occurring vitamin A, D and omega 3 for the same benefits. Cod liver oil typically comes in liquid or capsule form, easily added to your daily routine. People also asked When should I take cod liver oil? Take cod liver oil at any time of the day. The benefits of taking the supplement will show after regular use, but it is recommended to take cod liver oil with a meal to maximise absorption. Is Cod liver oil the same as omega 3? Cod liver oil is a type of fish oil supplement that contains Omega 3. Cod liver oil is a mixture of omega 3, vitamin A and D.
Coenzyme Q10
A naturally occurring nutrient in the body, Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells. It also contributes to metabolism. Production of CoQ10 decreases with age, but you can ensure you have enough of the nutrient through diet and supplements. Coenzyme Q10 is present in every cell of the body and generates energy for them. Organs, like the heart, kidneys, liver and lungs, have the highest concentration of CoQ10 due to their more significant energy demand. Coenzyme Q10 contributes to the overall health of the body, but it also has several specific benefits: treating heart failure, helping with fertility, reducing skin ageing and damage, increasing exercise performance and supporting the brain. The body doesn't store CoQ10, so taking supplements regularly and eating a healthy diet can help maintain levels for optimal health. As you get older, levels of Coenzyme Q10 start to drop, and medical conditions may arise. Symptoms of low CoQ10 can range from physical fatigue and muscle weakness to mental fatigue like memory lapses. If you're not getting enough Coenzyme Q10 from your diet, supplements can help fill the gaps. Daily capsules and tablets are easy to incorporate into your routine and help keep your energy levels up. People also asked What is CoQ10 used for? The most common uses of CoQ10 are for conditions like high blood pressure, chest pain and heart failure. It can also benefit migraine headaches and Parkinson's disease. When is the best time to take CoQ10 – morning or night? There are no solid studies into the best time to take CoQ10, but experts recommend taking supplements in the morning or early afternoon. This gives the supplement most of the day to start working and providing the body with nutrients. It is also recommended to take CoQ10 supplements with food, especially fatty foods, as it's fat-soluble. Some studies note that taking Coenzyme Q10 close to bedtime may cause insomnia.
Glucosamine
Glucosamine naturally occurs in the body as the fluid around the joints. It's an important chemical that is involved in supporting building tendons, cartilage and ligaments. Glucosamine also exists in shellfish and animal bones. Glucosamine supplements are beneficial for those who want to boost their joint health and prevent joint pain. Over time, the cartilage, joints and tendons work harder and can start to break down, so supplements can be taken to avoid this and for additional support. These supplements are usually made from shellfish shells; it's essential to seek out the synthetic form if you have any dietary requirements or allergies to shellfish. You can get these supplements in various forms, from tablets, capsules, powders and liquids. People who suffer from osteoarthritis can take glucosamine supplements, with studies indicating that they help improve the function of joints and reduce pain. Osteoarthritis of the knees and hips are especially helped with the use of supplements. Individuals who are particularly active or older would also benefit from the addition of glucosamine supplements, to ensure mobility of the joints and prevents cartilage from thinning and causing pain. People also asked Where can I buy glucosamine? You can find glucosamine in many health shops on the high street or online from authorised retailers. You can also buy a number of supplements from Wise Living. How much glucosamine can I take? Most studies suggest taking a dose of 500mg, three times a day, preferably with a meal. Around 1,500mg a day. Always consult with your doctor if you feel you may benefit from taking glucosamine supplements for joint pain or osteoarthritis, they will advise on the recommended dose for your condition.
Herbal medicines
Herbal medicines are made from the active parts of plants, like the roots, leaves and flowers. They're a natural way to self-medicate and can effectively reduce or prevent health conditions. Herbal medicines have their roots (pardon the pun) in traditional medicine practices across the world. Modern-day drugs and medicines will often use the active part of plants as part of their ingredients. An example is codeine, typically used for pain treatment, which comes from the Opium poppy. Herbal medicines usually come in tablets and capsules but can also come as a liquid or be brewed as tea. Many beauty and body treatments like lotions are also made from herbal medicines. People also asked What is an example of herbal medicine? Herbal medicines are used all over the world. Different herbs and plants are used to treat various conditions. Some examples include chamomile, ginger, garlic and milk thistle. Chamomile is often taken as a tea and has been shown to reduce stomach pain and nausea. Ginger can be taken as a supplement or brewed with hot water as a drink. It's been shown to reduce nausea and traditionally was used to treat colds. What is a herbal supplement? Herbal supplements are products made from plants and herbs that are intended for internal use. These supplements are believed to treat some symptoms experienced in the body such as nausea and headaches. What is herbal medicine used for? Herbal medicine is used to promote health. It can be an alternative to pharmaceutical medicines if the individual wants a more natural approach.
Magnesium
Not just something you find on the periodic table and in the science room. Magnesium is one of the most abundant minerals in the body, with 60-65% found in bone and 27% in the muscles. Its primary roles are to support the function of muscles and nerves, as well as provide energy. It also plays a role in contributing to bone density, to lower the risk of fractures and breaks. There's some evidence to suggest magnesium helps to prevent high blood pressure and contributes to general heart health. Magnesium deficiency isn't obvious or a concern if you are otherwise healthy. However, if low levels of magnesium continue over a long period of time, you may start to notice symptoms. Poor appetite, weakness and tiredness are the main symptoms, with more serious cases leading to muscle twitches/cramps and osteoporosis. Most people get enough magnesium from a healthy diet but supplements can help bring it into your diet. This should reduce symptoms of tiredness and weakness. You can take a capsule daily, or stir magnesium supplement powder into water and drink it. People also asked How much magnesium do I need? The NHS recommend 300mg of magnesium for men (aged 19 – 64) and 270mg for women (aged 19 – 64). What foods are rich in magnesium? To incorporate more magnesium into your diet, foods that are rich in the mineral include nuts, seeds, whole grains, bananas and leafy greens.
Multivitamins
Multivitamins supplements are an easy way to ensure you're getting all of the necessary vitamins for your body. There are a range to choose from tailored for specific needs – from hair and skin, to pregnancy and children. Although it's possible to gain all your essentials vitamins from a healthy diet, rich in fruit and veg, some lifestyles and diets require extra supplements to help maintain the body. Taken once or twice a day, the most common forms of multivitamin supplements are chewable gummies, capsules, powder and liquid. Multivitamin supplements make sure your health is maintained and are easily incorporated into your daily routine. The addition of multivitamin supplements into your lifestyle has been linked to a lower risk of heart disease and can also reduce the risk of cancer. They can also promote brain function and eye health, especially in older adults. People who are most likely to benefit from multivitamin supplements are older adults and vegans or vegetarians. Vitamin B12 absorption decreases with age, and the need for more calcium and vitamin D is stronger. Vegans and vegetarians may lack in vitamin B12 (primarily found in animal products) and omega 3 fatty acids, iron and calcium. Multivitamin supplements can help add the nutrients into their diets. People also asked Is it good to take a multivitamin every day? People who are lacking essential vitamins and nutrients in their diets should take a multivitamin supplement every day. These people include: Vegetarians and vegans Pregnant women Children aged 6 months to five years Over 50's People with allergies and intolerances to different food groups Should I take multivitamins at night or in the morning? There is no set time that is better for multivitamins to be taken – taking them when it's most convenient for you. It is recommended though, to take them in the morning with breakfast, to help them get to work over the course of the day.
Omega 3
Omega 3 fats are essential for general health, in particular heart and brain health. These fats can't be produced by the body, so must be gained from your diet. Omega 3 fatty acids have been shown to slow down cognitive decline, prevent your eyesight from deteriorating and can contribute to the developmental support of newborn babies. There are also implications that it helps improve symptoms of depression and anxiety. One of the most common ways to get Omega 3 fats is from oily fish. Omega 3 supplements are a great alternative if fish isn't part of your usual diet. In countries where fish is more prominent in the diet, like Japan, Greenland and the Mediterranean, heart disease rates are lower than in countries like the UK, where fish isn't eaten as much. The fats in Omega 3 protect the blood vessels and the heart by lowering blood pressure, preventing blood clots and improving circulation. Vegetarians and vegans usually have a diet lacking in Omega 3, so would benefit from supplements. Supplements come in several forms – mostly capsules and oils. Not many foods have naturally occurring Omega 3 acids, but some good sources include: oils (flax, walnut, pumpkin) green leafy vegetables seeds (chia, hemp, pumpkin and flax) nuts (mostly walnuts) fish (fresh, frozen or canned) People also asked Is Omega 3 good for hair? There's not a lot of research behind it but some people believe that consuming oily fish or fish supplements may promote hair growth and prevent hair loss. Omega 3 provides essential nutrients that can contribute to the health of hair follicles and promote circulation in the scalp to stimulate hair growth. It's also believed that fish oil adds shine to the hair. How much Omega 3 per day? Eating fatty fish at least twice a week should be enough but supplements are an alternative if fish isn't part of your regular diet. There's no concrete amount of Omega 3 that each person needs. It varies depending on the age, sex, and condition that needs treatment. Most studies suggest a minimum of 250-500mg a day for healthy adults but higher amounts might be needed for certain health issues. Is Cod liver oil the same as omega 3? Cod liver oil is a type of fish oil supplement that contains Omega 3. It is also high in vitamin A and D, but compared to other fish oils, it's lower in Omega 3.
Probiotics
The gut is essentially the powerhouse of the body and immune system. A healthy gut ensures normal functioning of the body, digestive system and is linked to many other benefits for the body. Probiotics are the live, active bacteria that the gut needs to restore gut health and fight the bad bacteria. A lack of probiotic bacteria can lead to some uncomfortable symptoms, like bloating, gas and digestive issues. Eating a balanced, healthy diet can help improve gut health. Probiotics occur naturally in many foods, which you can add into your diet. These foods include: Yoghurt Kefir Kombucha Miso Sauerkraut Probiotic supplements are another helpful way to get additional probiotics to the gut, if, because of allergies and dietary requirements, you can't add them naturally to your diet. They come in a variety of forms to make adding them to your routine easy – powders, tablets, capsules and liquids. Many of them are also vegan-friendly. People also asked Is it okay to take a probiotic every day? It is perfectly safe to take a probiotic supplement every day, and is recommended for consistency. However, this is only necessary for individuals who are experiencing issues and an imbalance of bacteria in the gut. What are the signs you need probiotic supplements? If you're lacking in probiotics and require supplements, your body will let you know. Signs include: Digestive irregularity If you've taken antibiotics (you need probiotics to balance out the bacteria) Skin problems (e.g. rashes, irritation) Regular gas, bloating and heartburn Feeling tired and sluggish If you're unsure about whether you need supplements or not, check with your GP as they can inform you on the best options and test for various conditions. What happens when you start taking probiotic supplements? Bodies need time to adjust when taking new medications and supplements, so when you first start taking probiotic supplements, you may notice some symptoms. Some people will experience bloating, gas or diarrhoea as the gut gets used to the increase in good bacteria. These side effects should clear up within a few days or weeks at most. If you experience continuing discomfort and side effects, consult your doctor.
Turmeric
Not just a way to enhance your cooking, Turmeric also has some major health benefits. The superfood has ancient roots in medicine, being used to treat swelling and sprains. It was also traditionally used to treat skin disorders and digestive system issues. Curcumin, the active ingredient in the spice, is the driving force for the health benefits with its anti-inflammatory effects and behaviour as an antioxidant. The distinguishable yellow colour of Turmeric is spotted in curries and the trendy 'turmeric latte' that you see all over social media. It's extremely healthy and can be added to the diet through the addition of supplements, if you're not a fan of the taste or don't use it enough in cooking. Many turmeric supplements are vegetarian and vegan friendly and come in a number of forms to suit your needs. Capsule, tablet and liquid form of the supplement can be easily introduced to your daily routine and will benefit the body in both mental and physical wellbeing. People also asked What is turmeric good for? Turmeric has major benefits for the body and brain. Benefits include: Cognitive function support Helping arthritis Immune system support Lowering the risk of heart disease Helping to prevent cancer Improving depression Anti-inflammatory Can turmeric help you lose weight? Many studies have not shown concrete evidence that turmeric is linked to weight loss or fat burning. It does have plenty of other health benefits that can be linked indirectly to weight loss, such as boosting the immune system. How long does turmeric take to work? Studies suggest an average of 4 – 8 weeks to see the beneficial effects of turmeric. Many factors can contribute to the length of time it takes to work for the individual, such as weight and condition. Taking turmeric supplements regularly and consistently will ensure you see benefits in that time.
Vitamin C
One of the most important vitamins for the body, vitamin C helps boost immune system health, maintain healthy skin and reduce tiredness and fatigue (something we all know with our busy daily schedules). It also helps to keep our metabolisms steady and is necessary for fighting disease and infection. Vitamin C, for years, has been a household remedy to reduce the effects of the common cold. Our bodies don't make or store vitamin C, so we have to incorporate the vitamin into our diets every day. The most popular source of vitamin C comes from oranges. While it's beneficial to drink a glass of orange juice at breakfast or add them to a fruit salad, it's not ideal for everyone, especially due to their high acidity levels. Vitamin C supplements are a good way to provide the body with more of the vitamin; supplements can come as a powder that can be added to juices or water, as a tablet, as a liquid or as dissolvable tablets to mix with drinks. The signs of vitamin C deficiency are obvious: Rough and dry skin Bruising easily Slow healing wounds Weak bones Poor oral health- bleeding gums and tooth loss Frequently ill Fatigue and low mood These symptoms are usually restored once vitamin C levels increase. People also asked What food is highest in vitamin C? Fruit and vegetables are healthy ways to add vitamin C into your diet. Fruits such as oranges, strawberries and lemons have high levels of vitamin C. As for vegetables, broccoli, potatoes and peppers are high in the vitamin. How much vitamin C do I need? 40mg of vitamin C daily is recommended for adults aged 19 – 64. A healthy diet should give you enough of the vitamin. What happens if I take too much vitamin C? Taking too much (more than 1,000mg daily) vitamin C is not fatal, but can cause unpleasant symptoms which include, stomach pain, flatulence, diarrhoea and digestive distress. Symptoms should settle once you stop taking vitamin C supplements or reduce the vitamin from your diet.
Vitamin D
When the days get shorter and the sun doesn't make much of an appearance, it's easy for our bodies to lack vitamin D. One of the most important vitamins for our bodies, vitamin D helps support the immune system and promotes healthy bones, teeth and muscles. A deficiency in vitamin D can lead to a loss in bone density, putting your bones at a higher risk of fractures. Deficiency also has links to other medical conditions as the immune system weakens. Vitamin D health supplements come in a variety of forms, including capsules, liquids, tablets and sprays. They're easily added to your daily routine and will increase the amount of vitamin D your body absorbs. People also asked What happens when your vitamin D level is too low? Low levels of vitamin D can cause bone pain as the vitamin helps to absorb calcium for bone health. Without enough vitamin D in the blood, conditions such as heart disease may arise, as well as issues with the immune system. Is it good to take vitamin D supplements every day? Public Health England recommends for people to take 10 micrograms of vitamin D supplement daily, from the end of September to early April (as sunlight hours during this time are low). This is to ensure healthy bone growth and muscle health. However, any more than the recommended amount can have negative effects like nausea and weakness — this is a result of too much calcium in the blood. Do I need vitamin D supplements? There are many signs and symptoms you may be lacking in vitamin D and need a health supplement. Lacking the essential vitamin will cause you to fall ill often because your immune system isn't in optimal shape. You may also feel tired and experience low mood, or have back/joint pain. Taking a supplement may help ease these symptoms.