Dietary Supplements
Dietary supplements are trendy. Protein, vitamins, minerals, probiotics, antioxidants: The list of available substances is long. But which dietary supplements are really recommended and offer additional health benefits?
Protein
Protein consists of different amino acids, which are the most important building blocks of our body. There are 22 different amino acids, 8 of which are essential; that is, they have to be supplied to the body because the body cannot produce them itself.
Vitamins
Vitamins are natural, vital substances that must be regularly supplied to our body. Vitamins play an important role in the metabolism, serve as protection as antioxidants against free radicals, and are essential for our immune and nervous systems.
Minerals
Minerals such as magnesium, calcium and potassium maintain functionality of the body's cells, serve as building blocks for bones and teeth, help to generate energy in the cell, and play an important role in the nervous system and metabolism.
Trace elements
Trace elements are minerals that exist in the body in very small amounts, which is why they are called trace elements. Yet they are of great importance to the development, growth and function of the human body.
Read more about trace elements
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats that belong to the group of essential fatty acids, which means they are vital to the body. The biologically active forms of omega-3 fatty acids are EPA (eicopentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid).
Read more about Omega-3 fatty acids
Antioxidants
Antioxidants help the body fight toxic substances called free radicals, which attack body cells every day. Free radicals are unstable molecules that lack an electron; that is, a negatively charged particle. Conversely, antioxidants slow down the aging process and prevent diseases.
Probiotics
Probiotics are the next big thing in preventive medicine. They bring beneficial gut bacteria back into balance, inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, support the absorption of micronutrients, and strengthen the body's own defenses.
Dietary fiber
Dietary fiber exists almost exclusively in plant foods and is largely indigestible by the body. It stimulates digestion and help to bind and excrete toxins in the intestines.
Prebiotics
Prebiotics are dietary fibers that are particularly useful as food for good bacteria. They promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestine and thus have a positive impact on the intestinal mucosa and the immune system.