Top 20 Supplements for 2010 – Part 2
Here are the remaining top ten supplements for this year. Today’s supplements focus on immunity, sleep and allergies!
I have taken the list of top recommended supplements from top Naturopaths and Herbalists such as Mark Blumenthal, Dr. Weil and Laurie Steelsmith and shared my experience with an understanding of these herbs…enjoy!
Immunity (continued):
1. Dried yeast fermentate: This is simply a modified form of Brewer’s yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae). Brewer’s yeast is a commonly taken powder rich in minerals, aminos and nutrients. This fermentate form, under the brand name EpiCor has shown to “raise the levels of antibodies in the mucus membranes, and also increase the production, activity and efficiency of several types of immune cells.
2. Pelargonium Sidoides: This is just a fancy name for a South African geranium with natural healing benefits that stimulates the immune system. You have probably heard of the product “Umcka” by Nature’s Way…the main ingredient in this product is Pelargonium Sidoides. This is one of my favorite products to recommend for anyone fighting the flu. Studies have also found that this flower helps with quicker recovery from sinusitis, bronchitis and tonsillitis.
3. Vitamin D: I have been encouraging my readers, clients and family to increase their D intake! Vitamin D may be one of the best ways to arm the immune system against colds and flu, along with other respiratory infections. Truly the best source of vitamin D is 15-20 minutes of daily sun. The best form of supplementation is to use a food based source or D3 (cholecalciferol), which is easily absorbed by the body
Sleep:
4. Valerian: This root naturally poses sedative properties, making it easier to fall asleep for those who have difficulties or even insomnia. It works even better, according to studies, when combined with hops flower, also good for relaxation.
5. 5-HTP: This product is derived from the amino acid L-tryptophan. I have recommended it to those with high stress levels, depression and trouble sleeping. For those of you curious to know how it works…5-HTP is actually able to cross the blood-brain barrier and is then able to increase serotonin production/levels in the brain. Serotonin is what helps you relax and sleep. Note…Don’t take 5-HTP if you are already taking antidepressant medication.
6. Melatonin: This is a natural hormone our body produces when it is time for the body to relax and go to sleep. According to Dr. Weil, “melatonin can be used in supplement form as an occasional sleep aid, and is especially effective against jet lag”.
7. Magnesium: I have always recommended magnesium for stress and muscle function/relaxation. Due to this mineral’s ability to relax the cells in the body, especially nerve cells, it makes sense that taking it before bed would help to relax the whole body and improve sleep quality. I prefer taking food based magnesium combined with calcium.
Allergies:
8. Butterbur: This leaf is made of a particular compound called petasin which has been shown to minimize inflammation and allergic responses internally. In research, butterbur leaf extract “improved allergy symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion and itchy eyes”. Dr. Weil even mentioned that this extract can be as effective as taking Zyrtec and Allegra for some.
9. Astragalus: This is one of my favorite Chinese herbs for building the immune system and preventing illness. Recently however studies have found that it can also be beneficial for those with allergies. This root seems to have the ability to neutralize allergens in the body.
Quercitin: Here is another favorite! Quercitin is a type of flavonoid (compounds found in foods such as fruits, specifically apples and red onions with quercitin, and vegetables that are rich in antioxidants) that can help minimize allergy symptoms if taken regularly. It is even more effective when combined with protein enzynes such as bromelain and can even minimize joint inflammation.
Well, now you have the top 20 recommended supplements for this year. I would add green and red superfoods and digestive & proteolytic enzymes to the mix – also my favorites and extremely beneficial to overall health, immune system, digestion, inflammation and weight management.
Related posts:
Agree with your choice of EpiCor to be on this list. I think it’s a solid nutraceutical product that has made a difference in me and my family’s overall health.
I have used the Dr Max Powers Burn product for a little over a year now. It helps to keep my energy up in such a fast paced environment that I work in. I am able to work the hours that I want and still have the energy to work out and eat right. Its a great ALL natural product!
I think that Acai is a great supplement to take, which is the main ingredient in the product, however my only concern is that it is made with caffeine anhydrous. That is pure caffeine and in my opinion unnecessary, could be a concern for those with hypertension, and is not a great product to supplement with. I was given a sample and after a few days of taking it, just to see how my system would react, I was jittery and my stomach had such strong acid pains I couldn’t handle it. I understand that I am probably more sensitive than most but for energy I still prefer drinking 1 tsp of Matcha powder 2-3 times/day. I think acai is best supplemented by itself to receive it purest benefits. Just my opinion…