Medicine has come a long way. What wouldn’t have seemed possible in the past is now readily available today thanks to the efforts of pharmacists, health experts and entrepreneurs alike. Supplements, in particular, are rapidly growing in popularity for their myriad of health benefits and affordable price. They can encourage denser bone growth, a stronger immune system and even help with losing weight. Not sure which vitamin compound will suit your needs the best? Supplements come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, so you’ll never be lacking for choices.

What Are Supplements?

While sometimes referred to as vitamins, supplements is a more indicative term for how it supports your day-to-day healthy functions. These can come in a variety of different forms and dosages, all the better to bolster the physical wellness of people with unique needs. Studies have shown two-thirds of American adults take at least one dietary supplement per day, with multivitamins and mineral pills remaining the most popular.

How Long Have Supplements Been Around?

Cellular supplements and basic vitamins have been in modern societies for many centuries. Americans, in particular, have been taking multivitamins and mineral supplements since the early 1940’s — this period marked when these products originally became available on the mass market. Any and all supplements, be they supplements for menopause or vitamin C capsules, can be easily found at the average grocery store or health supply chain. In the United States alone there are a stunning 60,000 separate compounds produced in large quantities for both industrial and agricultural use.

What Are Supplements Used For?

The best antioxidant vitamins and supplements can significantly impact your health and improve your life for the better. Supplements for menopause are popular among older generations to counteract the slow and debilitating nature of the condition, while detox supplements are frequently used by people seeking out healthier diets. Yet others will use supplements for skin conditions.

Can They Be Used With Diets?

Supplements and vitamins are at their best when paired with a strong diet and exercise. The physical activity a person does will account for around 20% of total energy expenditure (as much as 50% for a very physically active individual), while the thermic effect of food generally doesn’t exceed 10%. Overall, metabolic activity of muscle accounts for around 25% of total energy expenditure compared to fat at around 5%.

Which Ones Should I Take?

Choosing the right multivitamin or metabolic health products depends wholly on what you need it for in your day-to-day. Do you get sick easily? You may need something with vitamin C or vitamin D. Are you a vegetarian? Getting the recommended amount of vitamin B12 will help immensely with lost energy. If you’re over the age of 50, supplements for menopause can help with side effects. Whether you’re trying to lose weight or sleep better, a good supplement taken on a consistent basis can make all the difference.