Today, you can find supplement options for virtually any ailment you have. When you are ready to invest in supplements to help improve your health and wellbeing, trying to choose, the right one is often overwhelming. Dosage, cost, and brand all play a part, but you may wonder what else matters. To know for sure, consider the quality considerations listed below.
Efficiency and Quality
When looking at minerals and vitamins, there are several forms to choose from, but not all brands use the same ingredients in their product. An example of this is magnesium. You can find it in the form of magnesium citrate, magnesium taurate, magnesium sulfate, magnesium chloride, and more.
Magnesium sulfate, more commonly known as Epsom salts, is helpful for constipation but must be taken with caution because it can have a laxative effect. While this is a common type of magnesium, research has shown it is quickly excreted through the kidneys and hard to assimilate. The impact of magnesium baths last longer when magnesium chloride is used rather than magnesium sulfate because it is easier metabolized in the body.
Take some time to consider similar factors with other supplements you are considering. Another critical factor is where the ingredients were sourced. For example, are they sourced ethically? Do they come from a non-toxic environment? If you can’t find this information from the manufacturer, look at reviews, such as Activated You reviews. This provides more information about supplement ingredients.
Is it Tried and Tested?
When selecting supplements, find out what research has been conducted, and if there are any clinical trials, the company has invested in to prove the supplement’s effectiveness. You can also look at the company’s site for copies of the trials or to see if they are testing the batches they produce. Remember, not all brands use stringent testing, so it’s best to find one that does.
Formulas and Dosage
This is another factor to consider when choosing supplements. Remember, more isn’t always better. However, this all depends on the supplement. It often makes sense to select a supplement that has a lower dose, and that can be taken a few times a day. This increases the likelihood of your body absorbing it.
Ease of application is another crucial factor to consider. Some people are unable to swallow capsules well, especially those with digestive insufficiencies or issues. In these cases, purchasing supplements in topical, liquid, or spray application methods is best.
GMOs – Genetically-Modified Organisms
It’s best to avoid anything that is genetically modified, which includes your supplements. Not only are GMO products bad for your health, but they also aren’t good for the community or environment, either. Sometimes, these require the use of toxic herbicides and pesticides, including glyphosate, which has been directly linked to an array of health conditions, such as digestive problems and cancer.
Artificial Flavorings, Colorings, and Additives
Try to find pure and clean products that don’t have any added artificial flavorings, additives, colorings, or sugars. Be sure to keep an eye out for any allergens, as well, such as soy, dairy, and gluten. These are commonly found in some supplements.
Find Supplements Not Tested on Animals
Many people aren’t aware that animal testing can play a massive role in supplement testing. Try to find products that have been tested on humans, rather than animals.
The Cost
Supplements should be affordable; however, a higher cost does not mean they are better than those at lower price points. Some cheaper brands do not use ingredients that are well researched, which means the products won’t be as effective as those with higher quality ingredients. Make sure to do your research and take everything mentioned above into consideration.
Shop at Health Food or Specialty Stores
If you choose to purchase over-the-counter supplements, it is a good idea to buy from a specialty store or local health food store, then to purchase from drug stores or superstores. Usually, the employees at these stores are more knowledgeable about the supplements and the store itself. They are more selective and savvier when selecting products to put on the shelves, as well.
Additionally, in the past few years, there have been reports about supplements being sold by well-known stores, such as Walgreens, GNC, Target, and Wal-Mart. Many supplements on the shelves at these stores were full of contaminants and didn’t include what they claimed to. This is especially the case for herbal products. Remember, this is just a general recommendation, though. There could be acceptable supplements sold at these stores – and there could be unacceptable ones at a specialty store. With that in mind, it is a good idea to research specific products before you decide.
Carefully Read the Labels
Make sure to read all the labels carefully before you buy anything. This will help ensure you aren’t surprised by the ingredients. In many cases, there will be more than you bargained for in the bottle. Make sure to look for any hidden allergens, such as yeast, dairy, or gluten. It’s also smart to look for any unneeded binders or fillers, such as artificial dyes or hydrogenated oils.
Finding the Best Supplements
There are so many supplements available that finding the right one can be challenging. Use the tips and information found here to find high-quality supplements that will provide you with the vitamin and nutrients needed for a price you can afford. Knowing what to look for is vital.
