How to Choose the Right Vitamins and Supplements for You

By Chichi Ilonzo Momah, PharmD., Springfield Pharmacy Owner & Pharmacist

Premium supplements are dietary supplements that are made from high-quality and pure ingredients. They are designed to provide a wide range of health benefits to individuals who take them regularly. These premium supplements can help to improve quality of life and promote optimal health by providing:
– Improved nutrient absorption
– Increased energy
– Enhanced immune system
– Improved athletic performance
– Better overall health

Choosing the vitamins and supplements that are right for your body and lifestyle can be overwhelming. I recommend asking a healthcare provider to make recommendations based on your age, diet and health conditions. Here are some of the commonly deficient nutrients that they may recommend a supplement for.

Magnesium is essential for regulating the nervous system, easing sleep problems, balancing blood sugar, and making proteins in the body. Research suggests that it may improve glucose levels in those living with diabetes and improve insulin sensitivity for people with prediabetes. It can also help with blood pressure regulation.

A B-Complex vitamin is made up of eight different B vitamins, most notably vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 creates and sustains your energy supply by breaking down foods and identifying the micronutrients your body needs. Patients with type 2 diabetes who take metformin may have lower levels of B12.

Several B vitamins may also help reduce blood pressure levels, such as vitamin B2 (riboflavin) and vitamin B9 (folic acid).

The primary function of vitamin D is to help the body absorb calcium, which is vital for bone health. More than 40 percent of Americans don’t get enough sun exposure to achieve the daily recommended dose of vitamin D, and it is not commonly found in food. Research shows that people with high blood pressure tend to have lower levels of vitamin D than those without.

Fish oil is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and brain function. Fish oil is found naturally in fatty fish tissue such as herring, tuna, anchovies and mackerel. If you don’t eat 1-2 servings of fish per week, supplementing with fish oil can help you get enough omega-3s.

Vitamin C has many functions in the body, from protecting against cardiovascular disease and prenatal health issues to working against eye disease and skin wrinkling.

It is important to talk to a healthcare provider any time you are planning to introduce a new vitamin or supplement to your regimen—especially if you are taking other medication. Without supervision, vitamins and supplements can cause potentially serious drug interactions or counteract the positive effects of the medication.

Not all vitamins and supplements are created equal. There is no standard or regulatory definition for dietary supplements from the FDA. Always double-check with a healthcare professional to make sure you’re getting a safe, high-quality, pharmaceutical-grade product.

To receive a recommendation from an expert, discuss your health history with your doctor or pharmacist. Healthcare professionals who are familiar with your health, your medications and your lifestyle are best suited to help you find the right supplements for your needs.

For more information about vitamins and supplements, call or stop by Springfield Pharmacy and talk to our trained staff.

Expert Article provided by Chichi Ilonzo, PharmD – Owner of Springfield Pharmacy
1154 Baltimore Pk, Springfield. Phone: 610-544-4645 – [email protected]
myspringfieldpharmacy.com