Foods, Drinks And Nutritional Supplements For Health

Supplement stores carry many foods, juices, nutritional products and dietary supplements. These products and supplements were created to augment a healthy diet and lifestyle and were not intended to treat, prevent, or cure disease. Scientific testing has shown that some dietary supplements can be beneficial for health and managing some health conditions. Here are some of the standard nutritional foods, drinks, and products that can be found in large chain and small independent supplement stores:

• Vitamins and Mineral Supplements - The standard vitamins and minerals available in today's supplement stores include vitamin A, vitamin B1 (thiamin), vitamin B12, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K, multi-vitamins, calcium, chromium, folate, iodine, iron, magnesium, multi-minerals, riboflavin, selenium, thiamin, and zinc. Many other vitamins and minerals are also available. 

• Herbs and Botanicals - Many herbs and botanicals are available in supplement form. Some popular herbs and botanicals include garlic, St. John's Wort, echinacea, probiotics, glucosamine, and fish oil. Choose herbal and botanical supplements that have been recommended by your health care provider. 

• Protein and Other Powdered Supplements - Powdered protein and other powdered supplements are made to be blended with water, juice, milk, and other liquids. When blended as per directions, these powders offer a quick and easy meal replacement. Check the ingredients list on the label to know what each serving size contains.  

• Nutrition Bars - These bars contain protein and other ingredients for muscle building, weight loss, and quick energy. They are convenient as they can be carried and eaten easily when too busy to stop for a meal. Nutrition bars have been created as breakfast bars, diet bars, high-carbohydrate bars, brain-boosting bars, and meal replacements.  

• Teas and Juices - Drinks made from fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices, and other botanicals are readily available in supplement stores in many combinations. Read the labels to know all of the ingredients contained in the bottled teas and juices. 

• Sports and Energy Drinks - These beverages are currently very popular. They offer concentrated ingredients for a quick energy boost during or after working out or whenever needed. Compare ingredients and amounts on the drink label with your other supplements and daily foods to know how much you are taking on a daily basis. 

The best way to remain healthy is to eat a wide variety of fresh vegetables, fruits, beans, legumes, nuts, proteins, whole grain products, teas, juices, and foods without added sugars. On the advice of your physician, choose supplements that are pure, fresh, and grown without additives or pesticides. Do not take more than the recommended daily dosage of any supplement. Do not eat any food or take any supplement that is older than its labeled "sell by" date. Ask your health care provider when combining two or more supplements together. When in doubt, ask your physician for guidance to be and remain healthy.