Supplementation of vitamins and minerals is an area of particular interest to me, and one that has provoked wider debate and divided opinion. I am personally inclined to support the view that supplementation of vitamins and minerals is a positive step in achieving optimal health. Alongside this I believe that food is the medicine of the future and, in fact, of now. 

So many of our soils and foods are deficient in nutrients, with reported declines in quality over the past 100 years. This means that whilst we may be eating a healthy diet, it may not be enough to provide the nutrients and trace elements that help support immune function and prevent disease and debilitation. This suggests that something else is needed to provide the micronutrients that are essential to proper and optimal functioning. 

Through supplementing vitamins and minerals in the diet, a greater level of health and well-being may be achieved, with specific conditions also able to be effectively targeted. Alongside breakfast I take 2 multivitamin tablets, extra vitamin C to the value of 2000mg (for immune support), an extra vitamin B complex (for energy), acai berry as an antioxidant (particularly important when training in order to tackle the extra free radical production as a result of exercise), omega fish oils (great to help the breakdown of fats in the body), and extra vitamin E (to help my problem skin). Around half an hour later I take a green juice, made from a scoop of Vibrant Health Green Vibrance powder mixed with water, and then have a magnesium supplement on an evening (to help with sleep and aid fat breakdown). It sounds like a lot to be taking, but having honed my supplement intake over the past year, this is what I have found works for me. 

However, not all supplements are created equal! Binders and fillers can be hidden nasties in many vitamin supplements, and as such you must be careful to select a quality product which allows maximum benefit from the active ingredients without allergens and toxins (certain binders and fillers are acceptable and may even add benefit to the supplement). Some supplements also include artificial colours and flavours, so look out for these too. 

In addition to this, many believe that taking additional vitamins and minerals is a waste of time and that there is no evidence to support their efficacy in promoting health. I am by no means a doctor able to prescribe a supplement programme, I am just explaining what works for me and makes me feel great! I will love to write in more depth on this subject in a later blog post so look out for that.

Vitamins and minerals are available from health food stores, and I get my green juice from www.optimalyou.co.uk

Thanks,

Niyc xx