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Are More Expensive Supplements Worth It?
Yes, all supplements are definitely not created equal.
Cheaper products use inferior (cheaper) raw materials from which to make their supplements. A good example is magnesium supplements. It is thought that between half and three quarters of us are deficient in Magnesium, an essential mineral for heart function. It is also hugely important in improving sleep quality by helping to reduce stress. From a fat loss perspective, magnesium will also improve sensitivity to insulin – absolutely key to getting rid of the excess fat stores from around the hips!
There are two significant problems with most magnesium supplements found on the high street. The first is that they typically use Magnesium Oxide (basically a salt), which is not absorbed very well or retained in the tissues. The second problem is that they generally use only one form of magnesium, when the best products use multiple forms – which means better absorption from all the different tissues of the body.
There are lots, but another example is fish oils. Although the quality of fish oils found on the high street may not be ‘bad’, they actually contain very little actual fish oil, meaning that you need to take loads of capsules for it to be worth it.
We do advocate supplements, but only from certain manufacturers who we know to produce decent products.
Updated for 2024
- Magnesium Supplements:
Newer research underscores the importance of magnesium for overall health, particularly in reducing stress and improving sleep quality. High-quality supplements now often include Magnesium Glycinate and Magnesium Citrate, which are more bioavailable than Magnesium Oxide.
- Fish Oils:
Recent studies highlight the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids for heart health, cognitive function, and reducing inflammation. Premium fish oil supplements now often contain higher concentrations of EPA and DHA, ensuring more effective doses per capsule.
- Probiotics:
A growing body of evidence supports the role of gut health in overall well-being. Quality probiotic supplements include multiple strains of beneficial bacteria and prebiotics to enhance gut flora diversity. Kimche or other pickled products also contain superb amounts of good gut bacteria.
- Vitamin D:
Vitamin D is crucial for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. Superior supplements often pair Vitamin D3 with K2 for optimal absorption and efficacy.
- Collagen Supplements:
Collagen supplements have become increasingly popular for improving skin, hair, and joint health. High-quality products, such as those containing hydrolysed marine collagen, often include additional nutrients like Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin C to enhance their benefits.
- Herbs and Botanicals:
The use of herbs and botanicals in supplements is on the rise. Ingredients like ashwagandha and elderberry have gained popularity for their health benefits. Additionally, mushrooms, particularly those used with other herbs, are emerging as new “hero” ingredients due to their potential to support energy, immunity, and cognitive health.
If you have any questions on fitness and nutrition or would like some advice on how we could help you, don’t hesitate, visit one of our small group personal training classes – we would love to hear from you.
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