The ABCs of Vitamins and Supplements

I never started paying much attention to nutritional supplements or vitamins until my doctor told me that I could be prone to early-onset osteopenia (bone density that's lower than normal peak) after seeing my X-ray results for a fractured ankle a few years ago. Given my strong family history of osteoporosis, my aversion to dairy, and body frame size, I knew I had to do something to reverse the silent disease that, left untreated, could be more of an eventuality than a speculation. The ankle break was a misfortune but the resultant "wake-up" call was certainly welcome news to me.

Many medical professionals are skeptical of the benefits of herbs and supplements. And, perhaps rightly so, as we should all try to incorporate well-balanced diets into our lifestyles that ensure we get all the daily recommended nutrients and vitamins instead of relying on supplements to replenish the deficit.

But when you can't always have that lunch break or get all the leafy greens into your system every day, many Complementary Alternative Medicine Doctors and Practitioners recommend supplements to ward of disease and maintain health.

Here are some supplements and vitamins that seem to withstand scrutiny, and to me, are worth the money:

1. Vitamin D: Vitamin D increases your body's ability to absorb calcium. Studies have shown that people--and children in particular--are more Vitamin D-deficient than ever. One of the main reasons may be that we eschew the sun for fear of skin cancer. Smart idea, but the sun is also a powerful source of Vitamin D as well. To come to a middle ground, some doctors recommend (in conjunction with taking Vitamin D) walking out in the midday sun for at least 10-15 minutes a day without sunblock or sunscreen exposing large parts of the body, like the arms, trunk, and legs.

2. Calcium: Since we're riding the bone density train, I thought I'd mention everyone's trusty friend calcium. Unless you've been milk fed your entire life or are deathly afraid of dark leafy greens, calcium supplements are invaluable. Calcium supplements with Magnesium are even more effective at packing a calcium-filled punch to your bones.

3. Zinc: Zinc seems to be an overlooked mineral, but we all need it to maintain a robust immune system to promote healthy cell production.

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The vitamins and supplements listed here are only suggestions and can be worth investigating if you have concerns about your daily intake. However, always make sure you consult your healthcare professional before before you start taking any new herbs, vitamins, and/or supplements.