A Brief Overview Of Some Popular Nutritional Supplements And Nutraceuticals

By Tiffany Gill


Nutritional supplements and nutraceuticals now make up a huge and expanding sector of consumer spending. In the United States spending in this area is estimated to in the region of twenty-five billion dollars a year. Affluent consumers, particularly baby boomers, are a key demographic that is driving this market. The following is a brief overview of some popular products and their positive health benefits.

Blue-green algae and green foods: products such as chlorella, spirulina, barleygrass and wheatgrass have a powerful anti-inflammatory effect and are exploding in popularity among health-savvy consumers. They all contain very high concentrations of the compound chlorophyll, which in addition to the benefits already mentioned, also oxygenates the blood and has a strong deodorizing action.

Fish oil: much scientific research has demonstrated the positive effects of fish oil on human health. It is easily one of the best nutrients for all-round health. Among other things, it is beneficial for bone health, inflammation, brain health and has demonstrated anti-ageing effects. What is more, good quality fish oil is an inexpensive and widely available product.

Coenzyme Q10: this anti-oxidant powerhouse is relatively new to the supplement scene and is deserving of its huge popularity. Its main effects are on the mitochondria of the body's cells. This helps the body with energy production and is also thought by some researchers to aid with extending lifespan.

Curcumin: this is another relative newcomer that is being increasingly researched for its many potential medicinal uses. It is derived from the spice turmeric that most know as a curry ingredient. Many now know it as an anti-inflammatory compound that can be of great help to those suffering with conditions such as gout or arthritis. It also appears to be beneficial for heart health and is being extensively studied as a potential cancer-fighting compound.

Probiotics: poor digestive health afflicts an enormous number of people over forty in the United States and the rest of the developed world. Excess gas, constipation, diarrhea and skin problems are all tell-tale signs that one's digestion is wanting. This is often due to a paucity of beneficial intestinal flora; the 'good' bacteria that is essential to maintaining digestive health. A good probiotic can restore this flora and thus proper functioning of the digestive tract.

Glucosamine: poor joint health is another problem that afflicts huge numbers of older people in the developed world. Poor mobility as well as chronic pain are two symptoms that cause considerable discomfort for literally millions of people. No wonder that glucosamine sulphate is such a popular product. It can help to keep cartilage in good order and thus aid mobility and alleviate joint pain.

These six products and other nutritional supplements and nutraceuticals will continue to take an expanding slice of consumer spending well into the future. With ever-increasing health-care costs, savvy consumers the world over are taking greater control of their primary health needs. By making smart choices about what they put into their bodies they are taking the best steps possible towards a long, disease-free life.




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