iNutritional Supplements » Dietary Supplements

Staying Healthy Naturally with a Herbal Nutrition Supplement

admin — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 08:04:37 +0000

Trevor Mulholland asked:

Even though conventional multivitamins and other dietary supplements are affordable and abound in drugstores and other retail, the herbal nutrition supplement is very popular among many consumers not only in the East — the stronghold of herbal medicine — but all over the world. One of the reasons for this would probably be because of the recognition that herbs have been used for healing and wellness purposes throughout time, and that the medical community is open to exploring the viability of various methods of natural medicine in preventing and treating diseases.

It has been said that even if you eat healthy foods and take basic vitamin supplements, it would not do you if a lot of good if your body is unable to absorb and digest the nutrients you’re taking in. A herbal nutrition supplement would aid in nutritional absorption because it nourishes the cells, promotes cellular communication, and enable them to function more effectively. It would also promote cell growth and repair. Botanical products such as herbs are very important nowadays because they help detoxify and cleanse our bodies, which are exposed to countless numbers of pollutants and other toxic substances in what we eat, drink, and breathe.

Some herbal nutrition supplements are being marketed for their anti-aging effects, and with the increasing number of baby boomers, such supplements are in high demand. This is not to say that they would keep a person eternally young; rather, they mitigate some of the most common effects of aging. For instance, studies have shown that bilberry extract can prevent eye problems such as glaucoma and cataracts; guggulipid extract can help relieve arthritis symptoms; hawthorne berry extract is beneficial for both hypertension and hypotension; and turmeric extract can help with symptoms of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and atherosclerosis.

Some herbal nutrition supplements are reputed to provide relief from minor ailments, aches, and pains, and to promote a generally good state of health. For example, ginger extract is said to help people who suffer from migraines, hay fever and nausea; green tea extract may assist in treating diarrhea, headaches, and stomach problems. In addition, it can help prevent tooth cavities from forming. A herbal nutrition supplement extracted from the mahonia grape is helpful in treating pimples, influenza, and urinary tract infections, while one called gingko biloba is popular among many students because it promotes alertness and concentration, and increases short-term memory.

Dietary supplements are classified as foods by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), not as drugs. Hence, they are not subject to the same regulatory scrutiny that drugs get. It’s only when there are complaints of adverse consequences from taking a supplement that an investigation will be launched. Consumers should be careful about taking herbal supplements indiscriminately; just because they can be purchased without a doctor’s prescription does not mean that they are suitable for all. Take for instance those weight loss supplements that were popular some years ago. They contained ephedrine, an extract from the herb ma huang. Those supplements caused a host of complications for many users, including seizures, myocardial infarction, and death, until it was finally taken off the market.

Many herb extracts are included in weight loss formulations. Ingredients like ginseng, chickweed, and kelp are said to facilitate the shedding of excess pounds. But keep in mind that there is no solid scientific proof that these ingredients do that. In fact, some of them can be extremely harmful if taken in large doses. Their effectiveness in helping a person lose weight is not being discounted; it’s just that more research and studies are needed to validate their alleged capacity to do so. Another thing to remember is that if you are already taking some sort of prescription drug, it is possible that you might experience adverse effects of drug interactions if you take a supplement in conjunction with it.

Herbal nutrition supplements are available in a variety of forms: you can buy as pills, capsules, gel, powders, or liquids. You can buy them online or offline and because of the proliferation of offerings, buying several kinds will not burn a hole in your pocket. Just be sure to be a wise consumer; it’s your health that’s on the line here. Try to find time to talk your options over with a physician or nutritionist so that you can be sure that you will be buying the right herbal nutrition supplement for you or members of your family.

From Hairballs to Arthritis, Pet Nutritional Supplements Tries to Solve it All

admin — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 11:11:37 +0000

Paul Kramer asked:

We may have a lot of differences with dogs and cats in terms of anatomy and physiology but it appears we are no different in nutrition development. Just as dietary supplements have become a growing trend for us upright creatures, the current craze for our four-legged friends are nutritional supplements. Although veterinarians and other animal experts don’t seem to see eye to eye regarding this matter, nutritional supplements for pets have become a major force in the animal feed department.

Besides the vast number of producers and distributors of nutritional supplements for pets, these more natural alternatives to pet food come in increasingly specific varieties. Above and beyond the vitamins, minerals typical of a food supplement, there are those with anti-oxidants and immuno-stimulants, digestion and elimination supplements, and high energy nutritional supplements.

Our pets won’t get left behind when it comes to staying slim, too, as there are nutritional supplements for pets that are specifically designed for weight loss! Also, if your kitten or puppy does not get enough milk, there are supplements that act as milk replacer!

There are even nutritional supplements for pets that aid in keeping them well-groomed. Skin/coat supplements and laxatives and hairball treatments make it easier for you to keep your pet always looking trim. Unless you’re one who garbs your pet in cute shirts, their basic all-around outfit is their skin or fur.

In the same way that we suffer stress and pain, our pets do, too. But pet supplements providers have got this covered! There are nutritional supplements for pets that serve to reduce pain, stress, and anxiety. If your pet experiences arthritis and joint pains in particular, there are supplements especially for that! These are said to be pretty helpful also as prevention to strengthen your pet’s bones even before arthritis sets in.

It’s interesting to note the sort of disclaimer that’s always present in the promotional materials. Most nutritional supplements promise a lot of benefits but it’s always balanced off with notices that results may vary depending on your pet’s response. So one might say it doesn’t really guarantee you anything. Pretty consistent with human nutritional supplements. Basically, it leaves you to choose whether to give it a try and see if it works.

There are countless testimonies as to the effectiveness of certain nutritional supplements for pets, some even from certified experts and doctors. But, it’s still you who decides what’s best for your pet. At the very least, giving ALL or a random pick of these supplements might not be a good idea. Consulting your personal veterinarian is.

At the onset, you should consult your veterinarian about the diet of your pet. Some pet specialists argue that nutritional supplements for pets are unnecessary since the formulated pet food already has sufficient nutrients and you only have to choose the best kind for your pet. Whether they are right or not, it is smart to find out what is or what’s not in the food you’re already feeding your pet.

What Does Nutritional Supplements Consist Of?

admin — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 04:20:17 +0000

MIKE SELVON asked:

Under the broad heading of nutritional supplements, you will find vitamins, amino acids, minerals, herbal supplements, some steroids and even hormones like melatonin. The Food and Drug Administration does not regulate dietary supplements and require the manufacturer ensure they are safe before they are marketed.

The FDA only takes action against any unsafe nutritional products after it reaches the market. Dietary supplements are classified as foods, not drugs as regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, so they are treated differently than prescription drugs.

A nutritional supplement is a product that is intended to supplement the diet and contain any of the following dietary ingredients:

A vitamin

A mineral

An herb or other botanical (excluding tobacco)

An amino acid

A dietary substance for use by people to supplement the diet by increasing the total dietary intake, or

A concentrate, metabolite, constituent, extract, or combination of any of the above

Furthermore, it must also conform to the following criteria:

It is intended for ingestion in pill, capsule, tablet, powder or liquid form.

It is not to be represented for use as a conventional food or as the sole item of a meal or diet.

It is labeled as a dietary supplement.

While hormones are not included in the above list, some hormones are labeled as “dietary supplements”.

Dietary supplements are permitted to make structure and/or functional nutritional value claims. These are broad claims that the product can support the structure or function of the body, as in “glucosamine helps support healthy joints”, “the hormone melatonin helps establish normal sleep patterns”. The FDA must be notified of these claims within 30 days of their first use, and there is a requirement that these claims be substantiated.

The possibility of interactions between nutritional supplements and prescription drugs is something you need to keep in mind before starting a new supplement regimen. A product may be from an “herbal” or “natural” source, but that alone does not ensure its safety.

Combined with other drugs, supplements can produce unwanted pharmacological side effects. Though a nutritional supplement may be available without a prescription, it is a good idea to seek medical counsel regarding possible adverse side effects.

The bottom line is, in order to protect yourself; it is highly recommended you investigate nutritional supplements before you start taking them. Make sure plenty of studies have been conducted that show its nutritional value, safety and effectiveness. A good rule of thumb is to evaluate whether you are already getting enough of the vitamin, mineral or herbal supplement through your dietary intake, without additional supplementation.

Eating a healthy, nutritious diet is preferable, if that is a feasible option. If you recognize you are falling short of recommended daily allowances, ask your physician or nutritionist what supplements and dosages he recommends.

From Hairballs To Arthritis, Pet Nutritional Supplements Tries To Solve It All

admin — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 14:03:14 +0000

Syahrul Azlan Idris asked:

We may have a lot of differences with dogs and cats in terms of anatomy and physiology but it appears we are no different in nutrition development. Just as dietary supplements have become a growing trend for us upright creatures, the current craze for our four-legged friends are nutritional supplements. Although veterinarians and other animal experts don’t seem to see eye to eye regarding this matter, nutritional supplements for pets have become a major force in the animal feed department.

Besides the vast number of producers and distributors of nutritional supplements for pets, these more natural alternatives to pet food come in increasingly specific varieties. Above and beyond the vitamins, minerals typical of a food supplement, there are those with anti-oxidants and immuno-stimulants, digestion and elimination supplements, and high energy nutritional supplements.

Our pets won’t get left behind when it comes to staying slim, too, as there are nutritional supplements for pets that are specifically designed for weight loss! Also, if your kitten or puppy does not get enough milk, there are supplements that act as milk replacer!

There are even nutritional supplements for pets that aid in keeping them well-groomed. Skin/coat supplements and laxatives and hairball treatments make it easier for you to keep your pet always looking trim. Unless you’re one who garbs your pet in cute shirts, their basic all-around outfit is their skin or fur.

In the same way that we suffer stress and pain, our pets do, too. But pet supplements providers have got this covered! There are nutritional supplements for pets that serve to reduce pain, stress, and anxiety. If your pet experiences arthritis and joint pains in particular, there are supplements especially for that! These are said to be pretty helpful also as prevention to strengthen your pet’s bones even before arthritis sets in.

It’s interesting to note the sort of disclaimer that’s always present in the promotional materials. Most nutritional supplements promise a lot of benefits but it’s always balanced off with notices that results may vary depending on your pet’s response. So one might say it doesn’t really guarantee you anything. Pretty consistent with human nutritional supplements. Basically, it leaves you to choose whether to give it a try and see if it works.

There are countless testimonies as to the effectiveness of certain nutritional supplements for pets, some even from certified experts and doctors. But, it’s still you who decides what’s best for your pet. At the very least, giving ALL or a random pick of these supplements might not be a good idea. Consulting your personal veterinarian is.

At the onset, you should consult your veterinarian about the diet of your pet. Some pet specialists argue that nutritional supplements for pets are unnecessary since the formulated pet food already has sufficient nutrients and you only have to choose the best kind for your pet. Whether they are right or not, it is smart to find out what is or what’s not in the food you’re already feeding your pet.

Educate Yourself About Nutritional Supplement

admin — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 03:11:03 +0000

MIKE SELVON asked:

Vitamins, minerals, amino acids, some steroids, the pineal hormone melatonin, and herbal supplements all fall under the heading of nutritional supplement. The Food and Drug Administration classifies dietary supplements as foods, and not as drugs, so they are regulated differently than prescription drugs.

The FDA requires the manufacturer ensure the safety of their product before it goes to market. The Food and Drug Administration will only take action against any unsafe nutritional products after it reaches the marketplace.

Nutritional supplements are any product that is intended to supplement the diet and contain any of the following dietary ingredients:

A vitamin

A mineral

An herb or other botanical (excluding tobacco)

An amino acid

A dietary substance for use by people to supplement the diet by increasing the total dietary intake, or

A concentrate, metabolite, constituent, extract, or combination of any of the above

Furthermore, it must also conform to the following criteria:

It is intended for ingestion in pill, capsule, tablet, powder or liquid form.

It is not to be represented for use as a conventional food or as the sole item of a meal or diet.

It is labeled as a dietary supplement.

While hormones are not included in the above list, some hormones are labeled as “dietary supplements”.

Dietary supplements are permitted to make structure and/or functional nutritional value claims. These are broad claims that the product can support the structure or function of the body, as in “glucosamine helps support healthy joints”, “the hormone melatonin helps establish normal sleep patterns”. The FDA must be notified of these claims within 30 days of their first use, and there is a requirement that these claims be substantiated.

Keep in mind the possibility of interactions between a prescription drug and nutritional supplement. Just because a product is derived from “natural” or “herbal” sources does not assure its safety.

Many herbal products produce pharmacological side effects. Just because herbal products are available without a prescription, medical advice is necessary because of the adverse effects of these products and the potential for drug interactions.

The bottom line is, in order to protect yourself; it is highly recommended you investigate a nutritional supplement before you start taking it. Make sure plenty of studies have been conducted that show its nutritional value, safety and effectiveness. A good rule of thumb is to evaluate whether you are already getting enough of the vitamin, mineral or herbal supplement through your dietary intake, without additional supplementation.

Eating a healthy, nutritious diet is preferable, if that is a feasible option. If you recognize you are falling short of recommended daily allowances, ask your physician or nutritionist what supplements and dosages he recommends.