Tag Archives: fish oil

Supplemental Nutrition

SupplementalNutritionJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

In a perfect world, everyone would have access to foods that comprise a healthy balanced diet. In general, individuals who are proactive regarding preventive health and healthy aging focus on whole foods and optimal nutrition, as well as make informed choices about vitamin and mineral supplementation. As people become more knowledgeable about health and wellness, many turn to nutritional supplements, not only to address deficiencies, but to support specific nutrient requirements at all stages of life. Those who regard supplementation as an investment in long term health, ideally choose supplements that target their individual needs, and are aware that an all-inclusive healthy lifestyle embraces diet, regular exercise, restful sleep and other aspects as well.

When diet alone is not sufficient to meet an individual’s nutritional needs, supplementation becomes integral to wellbeing. Specifically those with malabsorption issues, allergies or food intolerances, dietary restrictions or certain autoimmune conditions may require supplements to correct nutrient deficiencies. As well, supplementation is beneficial for those with specific hormonal imbalances or those who are pregnant, bedridden, or recovering from an illness. If one is overly stressed, fatigued, traveling, training, avoiding sun exposure, or not sleeping well, this is also good time to supplement. Of particular interest is cognitive health and mood support, key foundations for optimal wellness and healthy aging. It would appear that the most popular supplements are positioned around need states.

A recent survey of those who regularly take dietary supplements found that vitamin D was the most widely used supplement, followed by omega-3 fish oil, CoQ10, probiotics and multivitamins. Rounding out the most popular supplements are B-Complex vitamins, magnesium, curcumin, vitamin C, calcium, melatonin, protein powders, digestive enzymes, fiber, milk thistle and resveratrol, as well as bone, joint and vision support formulas. Per the 2017 CRN Consumer Survey on Dietary Supplements, 79% of women are supplement users, while 73% of men regularly use supplements. The survey concluded that women tend to be more proactive about preventive health and are more likely to incorporate supplements into an established health and wellness regime.

Five supplements highly recommended by nutritionists:

Fish oil – Essential for healthy heart and brain function, as well as a healthy inflammatory response, omega-3 fatty acids are not synthesized by the body and must be obtained through diet or supplementation. Choose a formula with a high concentration of EPA and DHA, as well as purity and sustainability certifications.

Probiotics – Scientific evidence shows that gut health directly affects immune health. A daily probiotic can help ensure proper gastrointestinal function, as well as hormone balance. There are many quality brands from which to choose, including multi-strain and shelf stable formulas perfect for traveling.

Vitamin D – Rising rates of vitamin D deficiency can be attributed to inadequate sun exposure, especially during winter months and the prolific use of sunscreens. Necessary for bone, neuromuscular and immune health, as well as overall healthy function, vitamin D is one of 24 nutrients essential for survival.

Magnesium – Magnesium maintains normal muscle and nerve function, as well as healthy sleep. This extremely important nutrient is a cofactor in hundreds of enzymatic reactions, including metabolism, protein and fatty acid synthesis, bone health, steady heartbeat and energy production.

Protein powders – While protein may be largely obtained through diet, athletes, weekend warriors and seniors can benefit from protein supplementation. Ideal for muscle gain and weight loss, sufficient protein boosts metabolism and can reduce appetite. Both plant and animal based protein powders supply amino acids, highly effective for stimulating muscle growth, retaining muscle mass and improving strength.

Like many things in life, when it comes to supplements, quality and trust matters. Professional Supplement Center offers many science-based effective products without added fillers and unnecessary or artificial ingredients.

OmegAvail Hi-PoOmegAvail™ Hi-Po by Designs for Health®: Sourced from Alaskan pollock, this high potency fish oil provides 1500 mg of triglyceride-bound  EPA and DHA molecularly distilled omega-3 fatty acids per serving. The formula includes lipase to ensure maximum absorption and prevention of aftertaste. Distillation and filtering ensures purity and the removal of heavy metals, PCBs and other contaminants. Gluten free, Non-GMO, natural lemon flavoring.

Probiotic...Probiotic Professional 100 by Professional Supplement Center®: Probiotic Professional 100 provides 100 billion CFU of four researched strains of beneficial bacteria in acid-resistant capsules to ensure more targeted release. Free of wheat, gluten, soy, animal and dairy products, fish, shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, eggs and artificial sweeteners and preservatives. Non-GMO shelf stable formulation.

Vitamin D3 5,000 IUVitamin D3 5000 by Pure Encapsulations®: Each hypoallergenic capsule provides 5000 mg of highly absorbable vitamin D3 as cholecalciferol in support of musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, neurocognitive, cellular and immune health. Gluten free, Non-GMO vegetarian formulation.

Magnesium BalanceMagnesium Balance by Professional Supplement Center®: This highly absorbable magnesium blend supplies patented chelated magnesium for enhanced absorption. Magnesium supports bone and cardiovascular health, energy production and neuromuscular function. Free of wheat, gluten, soy, animal and dairy products, fish, shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, eggs and artificial sweeteners and preservatives. Non-GMO formulation.

Whey Cool Protein...Whey Cool Protein™ Natural Vanilla Flavor by Designs for Health®: This proprietary non-denatured whey protein concentrate is sourced from milk from grass-fed cows that graze on pesticide and chemical free pastures. Low temperature drying and filtration preserves the full range of important protein components including lactoferrin, immunoglobulins, serum albumin, active peptides and growth factors. Gluten free, Non-GMO formulation.

Organic Plant...Organic Plant Protein Smooth Chocolate by Garden of Life: This certified organic plant protein blend provides 15 grams of energy-giving protein per serving. The formula includes soluble and insoluble fiber as well as essential fatty acids, probiotics and enzymes. Gluten, soy, dairy, tree nut, fillers and artificial ingredient free, Non-GMO vegan formulation.

References:
Can the Elderly Take Whey Protein? https://healthyeating.sfgate.com/can-elderly-whey-protein-8318.html
What Does Magnesium Do for Your Body? https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/what-does-magnesium-do
What are the health benefits of vitamin D? https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/161618.php
13 Benefits of Taking Fish Oil. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/13-benefits-of-fish-oil
10 Evidence-Based Health Benefits of Whey Protein. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-health-benefits-of-whey-protein
8 Health Benefits of Probiotics. https://www.google.com/search?client=firefox-b-1&q=probiotic+supplement+benefits

The Best Time to Take Nutritional Supplements

timingSusanBiconBy Susan Brown
Health & Wellness Editor

Those of us who regularly take vitamins and minerals to support overall health or a specific health challenge know the importance of optimal nutrition. But many may not know the ideal time of day to take specific vitamins, whether to take them on an empty stomach or with food, or what combinations of vitamins to avoid or take together. Timing really is everything, as when you take your supplements can either boost or diminish their effectiveness. According to the Council for Responsible Nutrition’s annual survey of dietary supplements, 71% of women and 65% of men take dietary supplements.

Video Timing Is Everything

By far, the most popular supplements are multivitamins and minerals, with 97% of supplement users relying on these to complement their health. While 90% of supplement users report following label information, this little primer may help those who take multi vitamins and those who take more than one supplement to receive the maximum benefit from their formulas.

Morning:

Probiotics – Probiotics are best taken on an empty stomach, so for that reason morning may be best, although some prefer to take them at bedtime. When the stomach is empty, digestive activity is quiet and stomach acid and pH balance are relatively low, increasing the chances for the helpful microorganisms to thrive.

Iron – If you are advised to take iron supplements, take them in the morning, as iron is best absorbed on an empty stomach. Caffeine, dairy and calcium can negatively affect absorption, so it’s best to avoid these for several hours after taking iron. Vitamin C, however, can aid absorption, so by all means wash the iron supplement down with orange juice or lemon water.

Multivitamins – Taking multi’s with your first meal is ideal, as the vitamins are absorbed along with the naturally occurring nutrients contained in the food. As multivitamins contain both water and fat soluble vitamins, be sure to include some healthy fats with your meal for optimal absorption. If your multivitamin formula recommends more than one capsule per day, take them in divided doses at breakfast and lunch.

B-Complex vitamins – Taking B vitamins with breakfast helps to boost your metabolism and convert your food into energy, which can be used throughout the day. As B vitamins help to fight fatigue and create energy, it’s best to avoid taking them late in the day.

Vitamin C Vitamin C is best taken in the morning to support the immune system and boost energy levels. Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin that lasts only a few hours in the blood stream, so if your formula recommends more than 1 tablet per day, take it in divided doses with meals to get the full benefit.

Vitamin EThis fat soluble antioxidant vitamin is best absorbed when dietary fats are present, so if your breakfast includes some healthy fats, such as yogurt or nut butters, morning is a good time. Otherwise, lunch or dinner time is fine as long as you are having some healthy fats with your meal.

Fish oil – Important to support many aspects of health, fish oil is best taken with a main meal to aid absorption. Take omega-3 supplements at breakfast along with your multivitamins or if more than one capsule is recommended, take them in divided doses at breakfast and dinner.  

Afternoon:

CoQ10 – CoQ10 is involved in energy production and can be found in every cell, especially in the heart, which has high energy requirements. CoQ10 is best taken with a meal that contains dietary fats, and avoid taking it late in the day so that it doesn’t disturb your sleep.

Iodine – Iodine is not stored in the body, so regular intake is needed. Iodine supports normal cognitive function and healthy skin, and also increases energy levels. Table salt is fortified with iodine, but if you are not a regular salt user or use unadulterated salt, kelp tablets taken with lunch may boost midday energy levels.

Vitamin D – Vitamin D is best taken with a meal that contains dietary fats. It’s possible that Vitamin D can negatively affect sleep, so lunch time is a good time to get your Vitamin D.

Vitamin K – Vitamin K is best absorbed along with dietary fats and ideally should be taken along with calcium, vitamin D and vitamin C. Avoid taking vitamin K if you are taking Coumadin or any anticoagulant prescription drug, as Vitamin K can interfere with the effects of the medication.  

Evening:

Calcium – Calcium aids nerve transmission and muscle function. To get the full benefit, take calcium in the evening along with magnesium.

Magnesium – Magnesium has a calming effect on the muscles and nervous system and may aid restful sleep. Magnesium works synergistically with calcium, so take these together either as individual supplements or in a combined formula.

In addition:

Digestive Enzymes – Digestive enzymes can be taken with any meal or within 30 minutes of your meal. Unless you have serious digestive issues, they don’t necessarily need to be taken with light meals or snacks, but can be very beneficial for optimal breakdown and absorption of nutrients when taken with main meals.

FiberFiber supplements may be taken either first thing in the morning or before bed. Be sure to take fiber with a full glass of water and get plenty of water during the day. Always check with your healthcare provider before taking any fiber supplement, as fiber may delay or reduce the absorption of certain medications. Additionally, do not take fiber supplements at the same time as medications.

Should you have any questions about the best time to take any supplements, please call or email Professional Supplement Center. If you are taking any medications, check with your healthcare provider or your pharmacist before starting any supplement regime.

References:
Taking iron supplements.
Best Time to Take Probiotics.
Best Time of Day to Take Vitamins.
Psyllium.
Vitamin K.

Featured Brand: Wiley’s Finest Wild Alaskan Fish Oil

Wileys_Fish_OilSusanBiconBy Susan Brown
Health & Wellness Editor
 

Have you had your Omega-3’s today? Professional Supplement Center is excited to announce that we now carry Wiley’s Finest Wild Alaskan Fish Oil products. Owned and operated by the Wiley family since 2008, these 100% made in the U.S.A. products are produced from sustainably caught wild Alaskan, coldwater fish by American fisherman operating in American waters. Their fisheries management system is regulated to protect the environment, while providing the purest quality Omega-3 products in support of optimal health and wellness. In addition to supporting everlasting sustainability of their primary fish populations, Wiley’s is committed to supporting green, renewal energy initiatives. Any remaining fatty acids removed during the concentration of Omega-3 oil is supplied to a biodiesel alternative fuel company.

All oils are processed in an FDA compliant facility located in Coshocton, Ohio using cold extraction that results in an 85% Omega-3 yield. Molecular distillation removes any fishy odor or taste, resulting in extremely fresh and pure tasting oil. This concentrated oil is then carbon filtered to remove any environmental contaminants such as PCB’s, chlorinated organ pollutants or toxic heavy metals. Before encapsulation into easy to swallow softgels, every single lot of ingredients and finished products is NSF Certified and is independently tested by third party laboratories to ensure there is no lead, cadmium, mercury or arsenic contamination. From start to finish, all ingredients are 100% U.S. sourced, refined, and packaged by American workers to supply the finest quality American made Omega-3 products.

Cholesterol Support
 
Cholesterol Support  ON SALE Specifically formulated to promote cardiovascular health, this unique formula provides 800 mg of pine tree plant sterol esters in addition to 800mg of advanced 75% Omega- 3 concentrated EPA and DHA. Gluten and soy free formula.
 
 
Easy Swallow Minis
 
Easy Swallow Minis  ON SALE These mini soft gels are half the size of other servings but still pack in 630 mg of concentrated EPA and DHA per serving. Easy to swallow with no fishy aftertaste, these balanced minis are gluten and soy free.
 
 
 
Orange Burst Liquid Fish OilOrange Burst Liquid Fish Oil  ON SALE This is the perfect product for those who prefer liquid delivery of high levels of Omega-3’s. Gently processed to preserve the natural micronutrients vitamins A and D and the super antioxidant astaxanthin, one teaspoon provides 4500 mg of purified fish oil. While flavored with natural orange, the rich orange color is reflective of the natural diet of the wild fish. No artificial colors are added.
 
Peak Omega-3 Liquid Fish Oil
 
Peak Omega-3 Liquid Fish Oil  ON SALE This great tasting liquid fish oil is naturally lemon flavored and is presented in a guaranteed 90% triglyceride form. One teaspoon provides 2150 mg of EPA and DHA per serving in support of joint and heart health.