Daily Archives: November 1, 2021

Nutritional supplements market Is Expected To Reach USD 140.3 billion in 2025 | Abbott Laboratories, Archer Daniels Midland (ADM), American Health,…

Posted: November 1, 2021 at 7:10 am

Increasing awareness about health benefits of nutritional supplements is driving growth of the global nutritional supplement market. Nutritional supplements are used in order to treat nutritional deficiency in the human body. Nutritional supplements consist of vitamins, minerals, proteins, and other necessary ingredients. Health benefits associated with consumption of nutritional supplements are reduction in signs of aging and improved cardiovascular health, among others.

The global dietary supplements market size was valued at USD 140.3 billion in 2020 and is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.6%

The research report studies the Nutritional supplements Market using different methodologies and analyzers to provide accurate and in-depth information about the market. For a clearer understanding, it is divided into several parts to cover different aspects of the market. Each place is then elaborated to help the reader comprehend the growth potential of each region and its contribution to the global market. The data analysts have used primary and secondary methodologies to consolidate the information in the report.. They have also used the same data to generate the current business scenario.

Top Key Players inNutritional supplements market:Abbott Laboratories, Archer Daniels Midland (ADM), American Health, Inc., Amway Corporation, Arkopharma Laboratoires Pharmaceutiques, Ayanda, DuPont, DSM, the Natures Bounty Co., Herbalife International of America, Inc, Stepan Company, Pfizer Inc., Nestle S.A., Natures Sunshine, and GlaxoSmithKline.

Regional Analysis:

The market research report on the global Nutritional supplements market offers complete analysis across various regions around the globe. The report contains detailed country-level analysis, market revenue, market value and forecast analysis for the following countries and regions: Geographically, the comprehensive analysis of ingestion, revenue and Market share and growth speed, historical and forecast (2021-2027) of these regions are covered:

Influence of theNutritional supplements Market report:

Key questions answered in this report

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The Final Verdict on Whether You Should Take Vitamin D Supplements Eat This Not That – Eat This, Not That

Posted: at 7:10 am

Vitamin D is among the top three most common deficiencies in the US. So, that explains why a 2020 ConsumerLab.com survey found that vitamin D remains the most popular supplement, with 66% of respondents buying it. There's no denying vitamin D is important: it plays a key role in bone health, as well as supporting immune health, brain cell activity, and muscle function. But should you be taking vitamin D supplements? Are they actually effective?

According to experts, most people could benefit from these supplementsparticularly vegans and those who get limited sun exposure because they live somewhere with long winters. It's also worth noting that your vitamin D needs increase after the age of 70, making it more difficult to meet the daily requirement.

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"People with low vitamin D levels may experience fatigue, mood changes, and muscle weakness," says Jamie Nadeau, RD. "Maintaining optimal vitamin D levels supports your immune system which is responsible for fighting bacteria and viruses, lowers your risk for osteoporosis, and studies have also shown that low vitamin D levels are associated with an increased risk for depression. The best thing you can do to determine whether or not you need a vitamin D supplement is to visit your doctor and ask to have your vitamin D levels checked."

Once your doctor has determined that you have a deficiency via blood tests, they may suggest taking a vitamin D supplement, or a multivitamin with vitamin D. The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for vitamin D is 600 International Units (IU). However, Ana Reisdorf, MS, registered dietitian at Wellness Verge, says that's the minimumand she actually advises aiming for closer to 1,000 to 2,000 international units (IU).

"Overt signs of vitamin D deficiency, like weak bones or extreme fatigue, are rare," says Reisdorf. "But if you work inside and live in a colder climate, you likely need a vitamin D supplement. In fact, I think everyone should take a vitamin D supplement right now. Most of us spend way too much time indoors and don't get enough vitamin D, which comes from the sun."

Indeed, spending some time in the sunshine can trigger your skin to make vitamin Dbut how much it makes depends on a variety of different complicated factors, like the season, latitude of your location, your skin pigmentation, and the time of day. And unfortunately, wearing sunscreen can block the sun from penetrating your skin, which is what allows your body to synthesize vitamin D.

"Experts say that between 5 to 30 minutes of unprotected sun exposure of the face, arms, hands, and legs may be enough, however, unprotected sun exposure is not recommended due to skin cancer risk," says Nadeau.

Vitamin D is also found naturally in some foods, like salmon, tuna, sardines, egg yolks, and beef liverand it's also added to some foods, like fortified milk, orange juice, and cereal. Still, Reisdorf adds that vitamin D supplements may be more effective, simply because most foods don't fulfill the RDA, meaning you'd have to eat large quantities of them to meet your needs.

According to Reisdorf, a vitamin D supplement can not only improve bone health, but also help with your energy levels, weight management, and immunity. And if you still need more reasons to start supplementing, consider that a 2021 study published in the journal Nutrients found that you have a 0% chance of dying from COVID-19 if your vitamin D3 levels are 50 ng/mL.

The bottom line? A vitamin D supplement can offer numerous health benefits, and if you don't get enough vitamin D through your diet and/or sun exposure, it's definitely a good idea to take one. All that said, it is possible to have too much of a good thing. So, be careful not to take more than 2,000 IU of vitamin D supplements, says Reisdorf. Because it's a fat-soluble vitamin, it can cause toxicity at excessively high levels.

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The #1 Vitamin C Supplement to Take, Says Dietitian Eat This Not That – Eat This, Not That

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Eat This, Not That! is reader-supported and every product we feature is independently vettedby our editors. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission.

If you find yourself popping vitamin C supplements every year at the beginning of cold and flu season, you're not alone.

Vitamin C has a long list of benefits for your health. Research suggests that taking vitamin C may increase your body's ability to absorb iron, reduce your risk of heart disease, reduce your risk of dementia, and may make your body better equipped to fight off viruses and other pathogens.

RELATED: What Taking Vitamin C Every Day Does to Your Body

In fact, according to a 2018 study published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, study subjects with higher levels of vitamin C in their bloodstream were less likely to die of heart disease, cancer, and less likely to die from any cause. However, not all vitamin C supplements are created equal in terms of either their ability to be absorbedor their side effects. To reap the most benefits from vitamin C, you should be looking through the supplement aisle for liposomal vitamin C.

Liposomal vitamin C is a form of vitamin C encapsulated in liposomes, which are "small artificial vesicles of spherical shape" formed from phospholipids or cholesterol, according to research published in Nanoscale Research Letters.

The liposome's purpose is to protect the vitamin C from digestive acids and enzymes that might break it down within the digestive tract. "This protective phospholipid shield or barrier remains undamaged until the contents of the liposome are delivered to the exact target gland, organ, or system where the contents will be utilized," the Nanoscale Research Letters authors explain.

How does liposomal vitamin C compare to standard vitamin C supplements?

Is it really necessary to take this "special" type of vitamin C? Alicia Galvin, RD, a registered dietitian with Sovereign Laboratories says "yes."

"The typical challenges with vitamin C supplements are poor bioavailability and stomach irritation when supplemented in higher doses over a limited amount of time," Galvin explains.

On the other hand, liposomal vitamin C is more bioavailable than your standard vitamin C from supplements.

"With vitamin C supplements and vitamin C-rich foods, the actual amount of vitamin C that the body absorbs is quite low," says Galvin.

"The 'best' absorption rate of a supplement is only about 50%. [Liposomal vitamin C] meets this threshold, yet most other brands fall well below, as do vitamin C-rich foods," says Galvin.

RELATED: Major Effects of Taking Vitamin C Supplements After 50, Says Dietitian

You'll likely reap more benefits with any brand of liposomal vitamin C compared to your standard vitamin C pill, but Galvin specifically recommends Vital C-LD from Sovereign Laboratories.

"The technology used for Vital C-LD, the liposomal delivery and delayed-release capsules, allows the Vitamin C to be maximally absorbed, and also helps prolong the biological activity and antioxidant capacity without irritating the stomach or GI tract," Galvin adds.

$29.95 at Sovereign Laboratories

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The Future of Wellness Tastes Great with NEW Nature’s Bounty Jelly Bean Vitamin Line – PRNewswire

Posted: at 7:08 am

The new jelly bean vitamins come in six varieties for the whole family and all are vegetarian, contain no artificial flavors or sweeteners, and are gelatin free. The wellness line includes:

"Consumers are prioritizing self-care and wellness more than ever, and taking vitamins and supplements is one of the ways consumers support their health. Nature's Bounty is committed to creating nutritional supplements that support overall health and make wellness routines more enjoyable," said Aileen Stocks, President, Wellness Brands, The Bountiful Company. "With a rich history in the space, we're no stranger to innovation and are excited to offer this new line of jelly bean vitamins that delivers on our commitment and shows that the future of wellness can taste great."

This launch follows the release of Nature's Bounty Optimal Solutions Advanced Hair, Skin & Nails Jelly Beans earlierthis year. These innovative delicious mixed berry, strawberry and watermelon fruit flavored jelly beans are a first for the beauty supplement space1, and are a tasty and fun new addition to any beauty routine.

For more information, visitNaturesBounty.com.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

1Total US Multi Outlet + Conv (HSN Category Food, Drug & Mass Market) Latest Completed 52 Weeks Ending 5/23/21

About The Bountiful CompanyThe Bountiful Company, a Nestl Health Science Company, is a pure play branded leader in global nutrition, living at the intersection of science and nature. As a manufacturer, marketer and seller of vitamins, minerals, herbal and other specialty supplements, and active nutrition products, we are focused on enhancing the health and wellness of people's lives. The Bountiful Company's portfolio of trusted brands includes Nature's Bounty, Solgar, Osteo Bi-Flex, Puritan's Pride, Sundown, and Ester-C. For more information, visitbountifulcompany.comand follow us onLinkedIn,FacebookandTwitter.

CONTACT:Lee NielsenHUNTER[emailprotected]

SOURCE The Bountiful Company

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Nutrition and diets for leukemia – Medical News Today

Posted: at 7:08 am

Leukemia is a form of cancer that affects blood cells. People who have leukemia may benefit from a diet containing certain foods.

Leukemia and its treatments can have a major impact on the body. People who have leukemia may benefit from a diet containing certain foods.

Read on to learn more about what foods are beneficial for people with leukemia and which foods to avoid.

There is no ideal diet for a person who has leukemia. But the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) states that healthy eating is good for:

The LLS recommends a diet for people who have leukemia should include:

Cruciferous vegetables are part of the Brassica genus. They include:

A study from 2014 suggests that cruciferous vegetables may be beneficial to people with leukemia. Researchers found that compounds in cruciferous vegetables, such as sulforaphane, could slow the spread of certain types of leukemia.

But they found that the amount of sulforaphane necessary to affect leukemia was more than a person would be able to ingest from food alone. Additionally, researchers conducted the study on samples outside the human body. Further research is necessary to determine whether sulforaphane is helpful in treating leukemia in humans.

Cancer treatments can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Neutropenia is a condition that occurs when a person has too few neutrophils, a type of white blood cell for fighting infections. Low neutrophil levels increase the risk of infections.

Neutropenia is a common side effect of chemotherapy, a type of cancer treatment. A doctor may recommend the neutropenic diet for someone who has neutropenia. A neutropenic diet involves avoiding certain foods to reduce exposure to bacteria, such as:

Some doctors may recommend the neutropenic diet for people who are undergoing leukemia treatment. But the LLC states that is no evidence that a neutropenic diet is helpful for people with leukemia. They recommend that people take care to prepare food safely rather than restricting certain food groups.

It is important to remember that different diets will work for different peoples needs. A person should follow their doctors advice on diet and nutrition during cancer treatment.

Certain supplements can interact with the medications that treat leukemia, such as:

Treatments for leukemia can cause side effects, including:

People may want to avoid foods that can aggravate the side effects of leukemia treatment, such as:

It is important that people do not rely on food, supplements, or vitamins to treat their leukemia.

Having a suppressed immune system due to leukemia can increase a persons risk of infection. The LLS recommends the following guidelines to ensure food safety:

People who have leukemia should always speak with their doctor before changing their diet. Making sudden dietary changes may affect health and well-being. If a person has any concerns about certain foods, they should speak with their doctor.

Nutritionists recommend a moderate and balanced diet for leukemia. There are no foods that can treat or cure leukemia, but some can help with side effects and reduce the risk of complications.

People undergoing treatment for leukemia should avoid certain supplements, such as St Johns wort. Additionally, various foods can aggravate the side effects of leukemia treatment, such as spicy or fatty foods. People should speak with their doctor if they have any concerns about certain foods.

When preparing and storing food, people with leukemia should be careful to follow food safety guidelines. This can reduce their likelihood of developing an illness or infection.

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Hemp-based future? Thai Union targets alternative protein and supplement opportunities – FoodNavigator-Asia.com

Posted: at 7:08 am

Thai Union recently invested some THB3bn (US$90.6mn) to acquire a 10% stake in Thai food ingredients company R&B Food Supply, which specialises in various ingredients including natural flavours, colours and hemp extracts, and has since revealed to FoodNavigator-Asia that one of its major interests via this investment is in the hemp products space.

Hemp-based products certainly have potential in Thailand as well as other parts of the world. Being a strong OEM player and operating globally, Thai Union seeks to develop a broad portfolio of alternative protein propositions for our customers [and consumers] wherever they are, and hemp certainly fits in this portfolio, Thai Union Group CFO Ludovic Garnier told us.

With RBF, we are exploring several potential business opportunities to integrate hemp extracts, hemp proteins and CBD extract in several key consumer projects including alternative protein, supplements and other food applications.

The key benefits [hemp and CBD can bring] include improving consumers quality of life, which aligns with our commitment to healthy living. Hemp extracts [in particular have been approved for use as food in various countries and are known to] deliver several key health benefits.

Hemp seeds have been found to be rich in essential fatty acids, protein, vitamins, minerals and the amino acid arginine which is believed to reduce cardiovascular risk, whereas hemp oil is often linked with pain and inflammatory relief. The health benefits of both have been acknowledged under the traditional Indian healing system of Ayurveda.

When asked about any concerns over potential regulatory challenges, especially as many markets near to Thailand such as Singapore have not approved hemp or CBD products other than for occasional medical purposes, Garnier expressed optimism that regulations are continually evolving and progressing.

Regulations are changing for hemp globally, but as with any other new ingredients, this is continuing to evolve, he said.

[What we are looking at is integrating] RBFs innovative ingredients such as hemp extracts into both Thai Unions core offerings and newer products [to] enhance these. RBF also has natural flavours and colours in its portfolio, which will benefit [our product development] as well.

As for RBF, the partnership will enhance its ability to integrate vertically into Thai Unions supply chain, and leverage Thai Unions global footprint for its own international expansion.

Thailand removed certain cannabis plant components along with products made from these from the national Category 5 narcotics list earlier this year. These include cannabis stems, stalks and roots, hemp, non-viable hemp seeds, hemp oil extract and other substances extracted from hemp.

That said, at present all firms that wish to import any hemp or cannabis seeds still need to seek permission from the local Agriculture Department, so Thai Unions move to acquire a stake in a local business already familiar with hemp and CBD products will allow them to move ahead more quickly with any product innovation in this area.

In addition to its RBF investment, Thai Union also recently entered a joint venture with packaging firm Starflex under its printing and packaging subsidiary Thai Union Graphic Co. A new company was registered as part of this venture, with capital of THB250mn, with 51% shares under Starflex and 49% shares under Thai Union Graphic.

As part of our SeaChange global sustainability strategy, we have made the commitment that 100% of our branded packaging will be reusable, recyclable or compostable by 2025 - this new joint venture will help us reach that goal, Garnier told us.

Mitigating the effects of our packaging on the environment and innovating in our design and production not only addresses key sustainability challenges, but also provides important business benefits sustainability is a key pillar of Thai Unions global business.

According to Starflex President Printhorn Apithanasriwong, the new company will first aim to build a new factory dedicated to produce and supply flexible packaging to be used for food products, with a focus on supporting Thai Unions sustainability and packaging goals as part of its commitment.

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The 6 Best Foods to Improve Your Gut Health and Prevent Diabetes, Biochemist Says Eat This Not That – Eat This, Not That

Posted: at 7:08 am

Gut health continues to make headlines, and for good reasonmore and more, scientific studies suggest that a balanced gut microbiome attributes to better overall health. Now, moving into National Diabetes Awareness month, one biologist explains how eating just the right foods for your gut may actually help you fight diabetes.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it'sestimated that 34 million (approximately one in 10) Americans have diabetes. Colleen Cutcliffe, PhD, is a biologist who has concentrated on biochemical and metabolic research, as well as the CEO of Pendulum Therapeutics, a medical probiotic designed to lower blood sugar spikes. Cutcliffe also serves on the board of the American Diabetes Association's Northern California chapter.

A representative for Cutcliffe's probiotic supplements suggested that there's new research showing microbiomes play a role in diabetes prevention, and that some patients are turning to methods besides insulin to better manage their blood sugar. So we were curiouswhat's a method most anyone could easily adopt to prevent diabetes right now? Keep reading for Cutcliffe's answers, and don't missEating Habits to Avoid If You Don't Want Diabetes, Say Experts.

"Foods that are high in soluble fiber are a great choice for gut health," Cutcliffe tells Eat This, Not That!

She goes on toexplain how high-fiber foods help improve three important aspects of gut health: Regularity, slowing the absorption of sugar (which results in lower post-meal blood sugar spikes), and feedingAkkermansia muciniphiliawhich she explains isa keystone gut microbiome strain.

What were her specific picks for the best high-fiber foods to support all this? Keep reading.

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Apples came first on this biochemist's list of high-fiber, gut-friendly foods. Learn more by readingOne Major Effect Eating Fiber Has on Your Liver, New Study Says.

A solid recommendation for the cozy soup time of yearCutcliffe says this particular grain is a great way to pack in more fiber.

RELATED:23 Cozy Soup Recipes That Are Perfect For Weight Loss This Fall

Cutcliffe suggested carrots are another surefire vehicle for upping your fiber intake. (Curious? ReadWhat Happens to Your Body When You Eat Carrots.)

A beloved staple this time of year, oats were another recommendation on this doctor's list of fiber-rich foods to serve your gut.

RELATED:16 Celebs Describe How They Make the Perfect Oatmeal

Not only can peas add a flavorful pop to so many dishes, but earlier this year a dietitian told us one cup of peas contains an impressive seven grams of fiber. Peas may also lower your bad cholesterolread more inWhat Happens To Your Body When You Eat Peas.

If psyllium sounds like a word you've heard before but you're not all that familiar, this is an ingredient that's found in some store-bought fiber supplements. You can learn more about that inThe #1 Best Supplement for Weight Loss, Say Dietitians.

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Major Effects of Taking Vitamin C Supplements After 50, Says Dietitian Eat This Not That – Eat This, Not That

Posted: at 7:08 am

Most of us have probably only taken vitamin C supplements when we've felt sick or on the brink of getting a cold or flu. And with flu season around the corner, you may have already stocked up on your supply for the winter.

What some people don't realize though is that as we get older, vitamin C supplements become even more important and serve a greater function than just helping fight against a cold.

"Vitamin C is essential for good health as we age and plays a variety of important roles in the body, like helping with immunity and aiding in necessary collagen formation," says Amy Goodson, MS, RD, CSSD, LD, author ofThe Sports Nutrition Playbookand a member of ourmedical expert board

Continue reading for more on how taking vitamin C can affect you after 50, and don't forget to sign up for our newsletter to get daily recipes and food news in your inbox.

According to Goodson, those over 50 can really benefit from taking vitamin C supplements because of their antioxidant effects.

"Vitamin C functions as an antioxidant that helps keep your immune system strong and helps to protect cells from free radicals, which are harmful molecules that can cause damage to your body over time," says Goodson.

Free radicals not only cause damage to your body's cells, but your body actually becomes less effective in fighting off free radicals as you age. So making sure you have enough antioxidants from things like vitamin C is crucial to healthy aging.

Goodson says that vitamin C is also a great supplement to take to help improve the formation of collagen as you age.

"As you get older, your natural collagen production decreases, so consuming adequate vitamin C can help," says Goodson. "Some research suggests that higher vitamin C intakes might be associated with a lower likelihood of a wrinkled appearance, dryness of the skin, and a better skin-aging appearance."

RELATED: Popular Foods With More Vitamin C Than an Orange

Although more studies still need to be done on this topic, there is growing research on the connection between vitamin C and protection against age-related eye diseases like cataracts and macular degeneration.

Harvard School of Public Health states that these findings are promising, although no human studies on vitamin C supplements and prevention of cataracts have been done yet.

So now that you know the benefits of taking vitamin C after 50, how much of it should you be getting?

The Recommended Dietary Allowance of vitamin C is about 90 milligrams for adult men and 75 milligrams for adult women.

It is also recommended that you don't exceed 2,000 milligrams of vitamin C per day, especially if you don't want an upset stomach or indigestion issues. This shouldn't be an issue, as most vitamin C supplements are between 500 to 1,000 milligrams per capsule. Talk with your doctor before exceeding this amount.

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Benefits of B12 Shots: Are They Right for You? – Greatist

Posted: at 7:08 am

B12 shots seem to be all the rage. Celebs and wellness influencers swear by using regular B12 injections to boost energy and mood, fight fatigue, and even clear up their skin. But are these claims legit?

In this article, we break down what B12 shots are, why theyre necessary for some people, and why most people dont need them.

Vitamin B12 is a nutrient thats involved in a ton of important bodily functions. For example, you need this vitamin for your nervous system and red blood cells to work correctly.

B12 is found in many foods: fish and shellfish, meat, poultry, yogurt, eggs, and more. But even though you can get B12 from plenty of foods, its pretty common to have low B12 levels.

FYI: People with B12 levels under 200 picograms per milliliter (pg/mL) are considered to have a deficiency. A B12 level above 300 pg/mL is considered normal.

Certain factors increase your risk of developing a B12 deficiency, including:

Although its rare, severe B12 deficiency can result in irreversible damage to your nervous system. Fortunately, B12 deficiency and suboptimal B12 levels can be treated with dietary changes and high-dose supplements or injections.

Many docs choose to treat B12 deficiency with B12 shots because injections avoid the gastrointestinal tract entirely. Thats important for increasing B12 levels in people who cant properly absorb B12 from food or supplements.

However, research suggests that high-dose oral B12 supplements work just as well as B12 shots for raising B12 levels in people with a deficiency. Plus, B12 injections are generally more expensive than supplements.

In fact, a 2019 study found that sublingual B12 supplements (a form of supplement that you place under your tongue and let dissolve) were more effective than B12 shots for increasing B12 levels. So if youre looking for a first-line treatment for B12 deficiency, supps are probably the way to go.

B12 shots are associated with several benefits. However, these benefits are related to treatment of low B12 levels with B12 shots. Theres no evidence that B12 shots are helpful for people who already have optimal B12 levels.

B12 shots are prescribed to people who have low B12 levels.

If your doc suspects you may have low B12, theyll recommend lab testing to find out for sure. Depending on your results, they may recommend high-dose oral B12 supplements or B12 injections.

B12 deficiency or low B12 level comes with some common symptoms:

If you have a B12 deficiency, increasing your B12 levels (with B12 supplements or shots) can help you feel better over time.

But if your levels are already good, B12 injections wont give you any additional benefits. Your bod regulates the levels of B12 in your blood, so you wont build up a reserve. Youll get rid of any extra B12 through your urine.

tl;dr: Unless youre actually low in B12, B12 shots arent going to do much for you.

B12 supplements and injections are considered safe. Even in high doses, B12 supplements and injections arent linked to dangerous side effects.

However, B12 may lead to some more mild side effects, such as diarrhea and swelling. B12 injections could also interact with certain medications. Thats why its important to discuss your medical history, including current medications, with your doctor before using a supplement.

B12 injections can also be a bit painful, especially for people without much body fat.

B12 injections should be prescribed by a healthcare professional only as a way to address low B12 levels. (Remember, theres no evidence that B12 injections benefit people who have optimal B12 levels.)

If you think you might be low in B12, ask a medical professional to perform a blood test. Depending on your B12 levels, they may recommend oral supplements or B12 injections.

If needed, youll typically get B12 injections over the course of several months. Its not a one-and-done thing.

Generally, a healthcare professional will inject the B12 into your muscle. But it is possible that your doc would let you give yourself the B12 injections or have a friend or family member help you. Either way, youll need a prescription for B12 shots.

PSA: Be wary if a healthcare pro recommends B12 shots without assessing your B12 levels first.

Your bod needs a steady flow of B12 to function properly. Thats why you need to make sure youre eating a variety of B12-rich foods.

The following foods are rich in B12:

If youre following a well-rounded diet, youre prob getting enough B12. But the only way to know whether you have healthy B12 levels is to see a healthcare pro for a blood test.

FYI: Some people do need supplements for various reasons. If you have questions about B12 in your diet or B12 supplements, speak with a qualified health professional like a registered dietitian or doctor.

B12 does a lot for your body, so getting enough in your diet is super important.

Some people may need B12 supplements or injections if theyre not getting enough B12 in their diet or if they have trouble absorbing this nutrient from food.

Even though B12 shots are appropriate for use in those who are low or deficient in this vitamin, theres no evidence that B12 shots offer any benefits for people with optimal B12 levels.

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To Reduce Stress and Boost Energy, Try Maca Root – The Beet

Posted: at 7:08 am

Maca root is rightfully enjoying the spotlight right now as a key ingredient added in smoothies, shakes, chocolate bars, and more. Grown exclusively in the Peruvian Andes, maca has a long history of traditional use by indigenous communities in South America, for supporting energy and fertility.But how does maca root actually work? Does it affect men and women differently? And what is the best way to take maca? Here's what science has to say.

Part of the brassica family of vegetables (which includes broccoli, rapeseed, mustard, kale, arugula, and radish), maca (Lepidium meyenii) is grown in the harsh climate of the central Andes where it is exposed to intense sunlight and strong, cold winds. These adverse conditions might explain why maca is renowned as an adaptogenic herb one that helps the body adapt and cope with physical, mental, and emotional stresses.

The turnip-shaped root is traditionally dried and boiled before eating. The benefits of maca stem from its unique profile of nutrients.

In addition to macronutrients, vitamins, and minerals, maca root provides a range of compounds known as secondary metabolites that include glucosinolates, tannins, saponins, and sterols, and the unique compounds macaridine, macaene, macamides, and maca alkaloids. This combination of vitamins, minerals, and secondary metabolites give maca its adaptogenic power, helping support energy production and hormone balance, and even aiding fertility.

There are three different colors of maca root: Black, yellow, and red. Yellow maca is the most widely grown, followed by red, and then black. Each type contains varying amounts of active ingredients, which explains why some types are more suitable for certain health issues than others.

The unique balance of active ingredients in maca helps the body build resilience to stress and increased mental and physical demands.

Studiesin mice and rats have shown that active components in maca root enhance the activity of powerful antioxidant enzymes and help cells produce energy more effectively. Therefore maca may reduce fatigue and exhaustion at stressful times.

This adaptogenic effect makes maca root a popular choice for athletes. One study examined the performance effects of maca on a soccer team from Cusco, a city located at 3400 meters above sea level. The players ingested 1500 mg per day for 60 days, and tests were conducted to determine speed, oxygen consumption, and performance, before and after the ingestion.

Results showed a 10.3 percent increase in the physical performance of the players and an increase in oxygen consumption of up to 33%. Based on these results, it is thought that maca root benefits physical performance in athletes and non-athletes.

The powerful adaptive and anti-inflammatory benefits of maca root make it an ideal choice for managing symptoms of adrenal fatigue and chronic fatigue debilitating conditions associated with low-grade inflammation and impaired energy production.

Maca is a traditional fertility tonic for both men and women, though human research in this area is lacking. Male animal studies and older small-scale human studies show that supplementing with maca can increase seminal volume, sperm count, and sperm motility independent of any changes to hormone levels. Maca is also shown to greatly improve mild erectile dysfunction and sexual wellbeing compared to placebo.

Maca is thought to support male and female libido, though again this may be due to its adaptogenic properties rather than any direct hormonal influence. One small-scale study showed maca reduces anxiety, depression, and sexual dysfunction in women, with no changes to hormone levels.

All types of maca are known to generally support energy, resilience, and cognitive function. However, there are some differences in how maca root may benefit men and women, due in part to the type of maca being used.

Black maca is thought to be of particular benefit to men due to its effects on libido, erectile dysfunction, endurance, and muscle gain, whereas red maca has benefits for men and women. In animal studies, red maca was shown to be more effective than yellow or black maca at reducing prostate enlargement, and red maca is thought to support female fertility and the menopausal transition.

In a pilot study on Chinese postmenopausal women, the adaptogenic properties of maca reduced symptoms of depression and high blood pressure. Both black and red maca has been shown to support bone strength in animal studies.

Maca has a long history of use in South American traditional herbal medicine. Contemporary animal studies show it has a low degree of acute oral toxicity and low cellular toxicity in laboratory tests.

As with all food supplements, it is essential to follow the product usage guidelines and consult with your healthcare practitioner before using maca if you are pregnant or taking any medications.

Side effects are rare and usually limited to mild gastrointestinal upset, possibly due to the fiber content of the root. To help reduce the likelihood of side effects, start on a low dose of maca and increase it gradually to give your body time to adjust.

Maca root is available as pills or powder, though the powder is easiest to add to smoothies, soups, teas, and juices. It has a soft earthy, nutty taste making it the perfect complement to fruit, nuts, seeds, grains.

Dosages used in human research vary from 1.5g to 3.3g per day, so it's best to start on a lower dose, increase it slowly, and follow the dosage guidelines on your chosen maca product.

Remember to calculate your total daily intake if you're adding maca root to a homemade smoothie and snacking on maca-enriched products later in the day, this all adds up.

As with most natural food and herbal remedies, maca root doesn't work instantly and will need to be taken daily for a few weeks at least to make a difference to your health. If you're using maca for hormone or fertility support, consider taking it for at least three months.

Start with a lower dose and build gradually as your body gets used to it. Check with a doctor before consuming any products containing maca if you are pregnant, taking medication, or have a health condition.

If you're looking for more ways to incorporate a healthy, plant-based diet into your day-to-day life, check out our Health and Nutrition articles.

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To Reduce Stress and Boost Energy, Try Maca Root - The Beet

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