There are tons of supplements on the market today that claim to help with anything and everything from immune support to heart health. But how do we know what key ingredients to look for when choosing a supplement? That answer depends on what you hope to gain from the supplement. Check out this list of some of the most beneficial key ingredients so you can make the right choices for your health and wellbeing.
Cardiac Health
Ischemic heart disease has maintained its number one position as the worldwide killer according to the World Health Organization, so it’s understandable that many of us want to do what we can to support good cardiac health. Some ingredients that may be helpful in a cardiac support supplement include:
Beets
According to a 2015 study, ingesting beetroot juice was shown to increase cGMP levels in the body which protects against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury. Beets have an impressive nutritional profile, including fiber, folate, manganese, copper, potassium, magnesium, Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, and iron. Folate is known to play an important role in heart health.
Garlic
There is a lot of folklore surrounding the health benefits of garlic, and a 2002 study with clinical trials showed a positive effect on a variety of cardiovascular conditions. Eating a little bit of garlic each day may not be enough to have a positive effect on cardiovascular health, so taking a supplement containing garlic is one of the easiest ways to ensure you get a good dose.
Quercetin
Quercetin might not be a word too many people are familiar with, but it is actually pretty common as it can be found in many fruits, vegetables, grains, teas, and wines. This flavonoid and its derivatives have shown significant heart-related benefits and have indications that it could be helpful in treating cardiac diseases.
Aches and Pains
With the busy and stressful lifestyles many of us have, aches and pains are very common. Rather than taking ibuprofen or acetaminophen, which can be tough on the liver and GI tract, seek supplements with the ingredients below for natural ache support.
Turmeric
Turmeric has been growing in popularity in recent years, and for a good reason. Curcumin, the phytochemical active in Turmeric, was studied in patients with knee osteoarthritis and was shown to have similar efficacy as diclofenac but without many of the unwanted side effects. Many people choose to take daily turmeric supplements to reduce inflammation and discomfort.
Black Pepper
Black pepper is good for more than just seasoning your dinner. Studies have shown that black pepper has pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, black pepper blocks the liver’s breakdown of curcumin, allowing it to stay in our bodies for longer. Taking turmeric without black pepper would otherwise be insignificant.
Green Tea Leaves
For centuries, many people have used green tea medicinally, and it is one of the most studied drinks when it comes to the benefits for arthritis. The Arthritis Foundation claims that green tea leaves, rich in polyphenols, have beneficial anti-inflammatory abilities.
Blood Sugar Support
As a result of insulin resistance, blood sugar levels can rise to dangerously high levels if your cells are unable to absorb glucose as efficiently. Diabetic complications such as type 2 diabetes might develop if the condition is not properly managed. Support healthy blood sugar levels with supplements containing ingredients like:
Gynostemma
Gynostemma is a traditional Vietnamese herb that has been used in traditional remedies for diabetes, and modern studies have shown that after 12 weeks of treatment, fasting plasma glucose levels decreased in the test group consuming Gynostemma pentaphyllum tea.
Cinnamon Sticks
Cinnamon sticks are another natural spice that can help with blood sugar support. Not only does cinnamon taste great and add pizzaz to many drinks and foods, but research has shown that adding cinnamon to your diet can help to lower the glucose level.
Lion’s Mane Mushrooms
Many varieties of mushrooms are getting the spotlight for their many health benefits, including Lion’s Mane Mushrooms. Lion’s Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus) has been shown to decrease glucose levels and increase insulin levels to help balance blood sugar.
Bittermelon
Bittermelon goes by a few other names like bitter gourd, balsam pear, or kugua. This vegetable does taste very bitter, so its benefits are best obtained through a supplement. It has been used among indigenous populations of Asia, South America, India, and East Africa and more recent pre-clinical trials have shown hypoglycemic and anti-diabetic effects of bittermelon.
Pine Bark
Polyphenols, which are found in pine bark extract, may be responsible for its health-enhancing properties including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties.
Immune System Support
Immune system support is crucial, especially during the cold and flu season. With such a wide assortment of supplements on the market that claim to support your immune system, be sure to look for these ingredients:
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is the most well-known for immune support because it helps support a variety of cellular functions for overall immune support.
Elderberry
Elderberry is often thought of as a powerhouse supplement for antibacterial and antiviral support. In a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study, researchers found that the data suggested a “significant reduction of cold duration and severity in air travelers” for those who took elderberry.
Echinacea
Echinacea is another common ingredient used in supplements for immune support. This group of flowering plants has been shown to increase white blood cell counts, which are necessary to fight infection.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is another traditional cold remedy that has become more mainstream in recent years. Apple cider vinegar has a combination of “good bacteria” and yeast that work as a probiotic. Probiotics have immune boosting properties that can help fight off things like the common cold and respiratory infections, according to a 2018 study.
Zinc Citrate
Zinc plays a key role in most aspects of our health. When seven trials were analyzed, researchers found that zinc lozenges containing between 80 and 92 mg of zinc may lessen the duration of the common cold by up to 33%.
Experience the Bioclinical Science Difference
Bioclinical Science has created a variety of supplements to support your health, including immune health, blood sugar support, cardiac health, and relief from aches and pains. With over 20 years of experience and a commitment to quality, you can trust that you are getting products created with the best ingredients to care for your physical and mental health. Shop our products online to experience it for yourself!
DISCLAIMER:
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.