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Supplements: Vitamins/Minerals/AntioxidantsInsurance -- you buy it for your home, car and life, and that's exactly what this category is all about. Multivitamin/mineral supplements top the list for three reasons. They're an all-in-one insurance pill, they're convenient and the price is right. When considering individual vitamins, look fordt to vitamins C and E, followed closely by B complex. Why? Often a multivitamin/mineral won't contain high enough doses of Vitamin C. This water-soluble vitamin helps the body build tissues and promote immune function, so fitness enthussiasts should get at least 500 mg each day. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that works in concert with Vitamin C as well as providing other health benefits. Minerals are an often-overlooked part of a healthy supplement regimen. Calcium, the most abundant mineral in the body, plays a major role in preventing bone fragility later in life, It must also be present for muscles to contract and work properly. Calcium supplements are cheap and most multiss don't provide the recommended dosage level, so it makes sense to consider a secondary calcium supplement if you don't favor calcium-rich foods. don't forget, many supplements (meal-replacement powders and bars, and sports supplements) contain added vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and other nutrients, so read those labels and don't add other supplements if you're already getting plenty. Maby of the minerals on our Supplement Index can be found in your multi supplement, so consider your workout/activity level and price considerations when assessing the need to add separate mineral supplements. If you're a serious recreational athlete with definite aspirations for continually improving your personal performance -- and money isn't an issue -- consider zinc, magnesium and potassium. Known as electrolytes, they play an important role in many body reactions. Most people looking to simply stay in shape can probably stick with a healthy diet and high-quality multi to meet their mineral needs. The antioxidants on our list, while well-researched, tend to hit the pocketbook a little hard. Yet lycopene, zeaxanthin and lutein all warrant a look. Lycopene has been studied for its ability to prevent various types of cancer, including prostate. Zeaxanthin and lutein are known for their ability to protect the eye from constant bombardment of ultraviolet light and subsequent degenerative diseases. If you have a family history of cancer or eye disease, consider taking these supplements as preventative health. top of page |
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