Why take a vitamin supplement?

Whilst vitamin supplements do not replace a balanced diet, they can be beneficial if:

You don’t eat a particular food group – vegans or those who don’t particularly eat fish or omega 3 sources

You are taking a medication that may deplete your body of a particular vitamin or mineral

You are looking to boost your energy levels or to better cope with stress

You are wanting to boost your immune system

You are pregnant or breastfeeding.

You should always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting a new supplement especially if you are on any other medications or pregnant/breastfeeding as some vitamins can have negative interactions. Some common conditions that vitamin usage may help with are outlined below.

Glucosamine & Chondriotin : Supplementary glucosamine helps reduce cartilage wear, increase joint mobility and decrease joint stiffness in osteoarthritis. Chondroitin, like glucosamine, is a natural component of cartilage. Chondroitin is also involved in the lubrication and nutrition of the joint, and helps the joints to resist compression.

Fish Oil & Krill Oil : Omega-3 fatty acids have an anti-inflammatory effect in the human body and therefore can help assist with joint health.

Vitamin C : The body cannot make it’s own Vitamin C, so it must be sourced from our daily diet. It is very important to have adequate intake of especially during cold and flu season as it is needed for the proper functioning of white blood cells and antibodies.

Zinc : Zinc is essential to good health as it is found in every cell of the body and is involved in many enzymatic reactions. Adequate levels of zinc are therefore critical for the proper functioning of the immune system.

Garlic, Horseradish, Fenugreek and Marshmallow : The combination of these ingredients help to relieve mucous congestion as they are naturally antibacterial and anti-fungal.

Vitamin B Complex : The B vitamins are a group of water-soluble vitamins commonly found together in foods. The B group vitamins play an essential role in the metabolic processes of all living cells by serving as co-enzymes in the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats to produce energy. The body does not store Vitamin B in large amounts, therefore regular consumption of these vitamins in the diet is necessary.

Iron : Iron deficiency can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, pallor and shortness of breath on exertion. Iron is a component of haemoglobin, an essential component of red blood cells. Haemoglobin transports oxygen in the body. Having optimal haemoglobin levels helps the cells of the body receive sufficient oxygen. Without adequate dietary iron levels the delivery of oxygen to cells decreases and energy production may suffer.

Vitamin B : The human body has increased requirements for vitamins (especially the B group) during periods of increased stress. During stress, nutrients such as vitamin C and vitamin B5 are important for supporting adrenal function

Magnesium : Helps with  relief of symptoms of stress and anxiety including sleep disturbance, irritability and hyperactivity. Contains magnesium phosphate which is essential for muscular relaxation in skeletal, smooth and cardiac muscle.

*Note : The above information was taken from the Blackmores website…

We keep the leading brands of vitamins in store including Blackmores, Nature’s Own, Blooms, Swisse, Bioglan, Ethical Nutrients and the Pharmacy Health alternatives. Vitamins now come in many different forms as well – tablets, capsules, chewable gummies, liquids and effervescents. As there are now many restrictions on over-the-counter treatments for colds and flu in children under 6 years of age, a multivitamin may help build up their immune system’s defence.