Condition Spotlight
Recent research has demonstrated that diet alone may not be sufficient to supply the nutrients necessary for overall good health. While most experts agree that nutritional supplements are vital for a variety of illnesses, injuries, and age-related problems, vitamin and mineral supplements can also help to maintain optimal physical and psychological health, and promote longevity and chronic disease prevention.
Ever since the term vitamin was coined almost 100 years ago to describe the discovery of the essential life substances in foods, scientists have debated the issue of nutritional adequacy. Medical science has long held that healthy adults do not need supplementation if they consume a healthful, varied diet. Until recently, it was widely believed that supplements were only considered necessary if a person had an outright or “severe” nutrient deficiency, usually manifested by overt illness.
Rhodiola rosea is a flowering plant that grows in cold, high-altitude regions like Siberia and Scandinavia. Cultures in these areas have used the plant for centuries to combat stress and fatigue. Today, modern research backs Read More
These Mediterranean Roll-Ups are extremely tasty, especially with the hummus and tabouli! This wrap makes for a flavorful, tasty lunch that is also a is a great vegetarian option. The best part – it can Read More
This quinoa salad is super easy to whip up and has the wonderful combination of flavors of cranberries, almonds, pine nuts and pepitas! Nuts and seeds are rich in magnesium, an important nutrient that many Read More
While trying new things and being adventurous often makes life more exciting and enjoyable, there are certain things where it’s impossible to beat the classic, the tried-and-true method. This classic apple pie is one example Read More
I love cherries! Dried, fresh, frozen, tart or sweet…in smoothies, on salads, even in main courses. They are an excellent sweet healthy snack full of antioxidants, and fat burning ingredients. Cherries contain some unique and Read More
In just a matter of minutes, you can enjoy a breakfast that’s both nutritious and bursting with flavor. These Avocado Tomatillo Breakfast Tacos are the ultimate morning pick-me-up, giving you the energy and satisfaction you Read More
This sweet potato salad recipe is both hearty and refreshing at the same time. As someone who loves hosting, I constantly search for ways to incorporate more salads into my menus, especially during the chillier months Read More
This gluten free stuffing is a tasty, filling and heart-healthy alternative for those who are faced with dietary restrictions. I love the crunchiness of the wild rice and celery, and truly don’t even miss “traditional” stuffing. How Read More
Fruity and nutty, fresh and delicious, this Cranberry Couscous Salad is a delightfully different side dish In this Moroccan Couscous Cranberry Salad, the fruitiness of the cranberries and mint bring out the rich nutty couscous Read More
This easy apple cobbler recipe makes a perfect not-too-sweet dessert to savor the apple harvest. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream! How’s Apple Cobbler different from Apple Crisp? There is a difference Read More
Nutrition has become an important segment in the natural and holistic healthcare practices. Due to current FDA labeling regulations for nutritional supplements and herbs, health food stores and/or pharmacies are not allowed to present information regarding dosage or treatment of health conditions, regardless of scientific support.
In addition to disease control, nutritional supplements can help people cope with specific lifestyle, environmental, and emotional/psychological factors. Today, an estimated 80% of adult Americans take nutritional supplements, many on a daily basis. It is no longer just a fad, but part of a growing trend as people start to take a proactive approach to their own health. Although researchers are learning more every day about the connection between nutrition and health, there is still no definitive scientific “how-to guide” for this very complex issue, especially since each individual’s needs are different.
While it is always recommended that a person try to obtain as many nutrients as possible through the consumption of a variety of nutrient-dense foods, this can be unrealistic for many, due to the following reasons: reduced calorie intake; the dislike of certain foods; loss of nutrients in cooking; the variable quality of food supply; lack of knowledge, motivation, or time to plan and prepare balanced meals; and nutrient depletion caused by stress, lifestyle, and certain medications. This is where nutritional supplements can play an important role in filling any nutrient gaps.
