A little about supplements

Daily physical activity naturally makes the body lose vitamins, carbohydrates and essential minerals that even a balanced diet doesn't manage to replace. That's why it's important to take supplements and give the body back what it lost.

We all know the adverts for supplements, and there's a whole range of "healthy" products recommended to us – but what do we really need, and what really matters for our body?

Today on the blog we'll focus mainly on supplements for people who aren't professional athletes but are physically active – yoga, Pilates, functional training, swimming, running and so on.

The first supplement we'll talk about is curcumin.

1. Curcumin is known for reducing joint inflammation.

2. It helps reduce inflammatory bowel disease.

3. It treats irritable bowel syndrome: curcumin significantly eases symptoms such as diarrhoea, constipation, bloating and gas.

4. It contributes to reducing heart disease.

5. In cases of diabetes, curcumin can fight the development of the disease in its early stage.

6. Taking curcumin after surgery reduces swelling and helps a faster recovery.

In short, it's an anti-inflammatory root with many properties that can improve our lifestyle. For anyone suffering from joint inflammation (such as wrist inflammation after Pilates), this supplement is highly recommended.

The second supplement is maca.

1. Maca helps increase resilience under stress, boosts energy and improves general health.

2. Maca roots contain high concentrations of minerals, vitamins, amino acids, complex carbohydrates and dietary fibre of high nutritional value.

3. The unique combination of its components and its nourishing effect are considered to strengthen the body's energy.

4. The maca root developed survival mechanisms at high altitude, where oxygen is scarce. In South America, maca roots are known as the best remedy for weakness, fatigue and lack of energy. Interestingly, unlike coffee, processed sugars or other stimulants, its effect on energy levels is steady and lasting.

5. Maca flour contains about 10.5% high-quality, available protein, 19 essential amino acids, complex carbohydrates, minerals such as iron, calcium, potassium and selenium, and essential vitamins.

In short, the maca root has been known since the time of the Incas for its medicinal properties. It's packed with nutrients, provides energy and vitality, improves physical endurance and contributes to building muscle mass.

The third supplement is spirulina.

1. A source of beta-carotene (plant vitamin A), calcium and complete, high-quality, available protein (about 60% of the algae's content).

2. Spirulina contains essential fatty acids, an impressive complex of vitamins and minerals, and even powerful antioxidants.

Spirulina is recommended as a superfood for active people, vegetarians and vegans who want to enrich their diet naturally rather than from a synthetic source. Because it grows in freshwater lakes it contains no iodine, so it's also suitable if there's a thyroid imbalance in the background. To know the right dosage, consult a naturopath or a doctor.

Today I told you about three supplements we can all add to our diet, and what each can contribute to strengthening our body. It's important to stress that you shouldn't take supplements without professional advice from a naturopath or a qualified dietitian, to understand exactly what each of you should take and at what dose.

The aim of this article was to expose you to information and broaden your general knowledge, so you can explore the subject privately with professionals.

The article was written with the guidance of naturopath Hadas Erlich, together with further articles by Bara Herbs. For more information and advice, you can contact Hadas – 054-5485146.