What are the most commonly recommended supplements for optimal health and disease prevention?
The most commonly recommended supplements can be classified as “antioxidants”, the “B” vitamins, minerals, and several other key nutrients that reduce inflammation, protect the cells, improve organ function, and balance metabolic processes. Antioxidants, substances that neutralize the effects of cancer-causing free radicals, include the vitamins C and E, Beta-Carotene, Co-enzyme Q10, selenium, melatonin, and lipoic acid. The B vitamins, which are important for proper metabolism, controlling cholesterol and homocysteine levels (a risk factor for atherosclerosis), and the production of red blood cells and adrenal hormones include thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, and folic acid. Some of the essential minerals for the prevention and reversal of chronic disease are calcium, magnesium, chromium, and iodine. Other key “anti-aging” nutrients include vitamin D, garlic, glucosamine, ginseng, green tea extract, saw palmetto, lecithin, acai berry, and omega 3 fatty acids (fish oil).
