General Health Supplements

• Vitamin D3

• Omega-3s

• Magnesium

• Vitamin B12

• Dietary Fiber

• Creatine Monohydrate

Vitamin D

Vitamin D (also referred to as calciferol) is a fat-soluble vitamin that is produced endogenously when ultraviolet (UV) rays from sunlight strike the skin and trigger vitamin D synthesis. It’s present naturally in a few foods and is fortified in many other foods like dairy products. Because we spend less time outside than previous generations, Vitamin D deficiency is common in the general population, and, therefore, is a good candidate for daily supplementation.

Omega-3s

Omega-3s are a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFAs). Omegas are created primarily by marine algae, which are then eaten by other marine life like fish, which is why many omega supplements, like Super EPA, are fish oil products. ALA is the only omega that is considered essential, meaning it must be obtained from the diet. However, while ALA can convert into EPA and DHA, this conversion is small, and, as a result, EPA and DHA should also be obtained through diet. Omegas are important for the health of cell membranes throughout the body, among other functions.

Magnesium

Magnesium is a mineral that, according to the NIH, “is a cofactor in more than 300 enzyme systems that regulate diverse biochemical reactions in the body, including protein synthesis, muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, and blood pressure regulation.” It’s commonly touted for its sleep quality benefits. These are just a few of the many functions Magnesium plays in the body. It’s widely available in many plant and animal sources, and when consumed, about 30-40% is absorbed.

Fiber

Fiber is an indigestible type of carbohydrate. Primarily, there are two types of fiber, insoluble and soluble. Two benefits of dietary fiber are that it helps slow the release of glucose into the bloodstream and improves insulin sensitivity, both desirable effects for diabetics. More than 90% of the US population doesn’t consume the recommended amount of fiber in a day (25+ grams/day). Because of this, many may benefit from a fiber supplement since high-fiber diets have consistently been shown to reduce all-cause mortality (death) and improve multiple health outcomes. Increasing fiber intake can cause gastrointestinal symptoms, but for many, this resolves in time and with exposure.

Creatine

Creatine is a non-protein nitrogen. The human body does create a small amount of creatine. However, the amount created isn’t enough to provide optimal benefit. And, to obtain the amount of creatine needed for optimal benefit from animal sources, you’d need to consume over 2 lbs. of meat per day. Creatine monohydrate is one of the most studied supplements ever. Simply put, Creatine’s main benefit is that it helps turn ADP back into ATP (the body’s primary energy source). It has almost no safety concerns and has been repeatedly shown to be an effective supplement for improving muscle strength and size. More recent research has shown that creatine supplementation may have protective effects against cognitive diseases like Alzheimer’s and may improve cognition in general. 3-5 grams (g) per day is optimal and taking more doesn’t provide any extra benefit.

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is created by certain bacteria and archaea. Plants and animals are unable to synthesize it themselves, and, due to this, we must obtain B12 from our diet. The reason it is found in animals and animal products is that these animals consume untreated water, where bacteria produce B12. B12 isn’t found in our drinking water because we treat it, a process which eliminates harmful pathogens and bacteria, but also destroys the B12 found in contaminated water. For strict vegans, B12 is a non-negotiable supplement because it’s not available in a plant-based diet. This product contains appropriate doses of Vitamin B12, as well as Vitamin D and Magnesium. Therefore, it can address multiple needs.