Today, supplements are available for just about any condition if you believe all the hype. But what’s true and what’s not? What are people really treating with these things? Here’s a look at some conditions that people are commonly treating with supplements today.
Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is defined as pain lasting longer than 3 months. In some cases, patients have been suffering for many years. With today’s cutbacks on narcotics prescriptions, patients are turning to alternative therapies to treat their pain. Acupuncture and acupressure, as well as TENS therapies, are viable solutions, but there are supplements that can help too. Capsicum or capsaicin is what gives chili peppers their kick and they can help reduce pain as well. Bromelain, CBD oil, and others are all things that could help keep or get you off narcotics for good.
Tinnitus
If you have ringing in your ears, you know how annoying and at time debilitating it can be. The good news is that there are several options available, both from your doctor and in the form of supplements over-the-counter. Most use a blend of ingredients like magnesium, ginkgo, garlic, calcium, and feverfew. For more information on some of your choices, click here.
Low Energy
Fatigue and lack of energy are things that millions of people suffer with. Coffee is one way to stimulate yourself but it’s not something you should rely on long-term. In addition to a healthy diet, supplements like Vitamin B12, guarana, CoQ10, and ginseng can help put a little extra pep in your step.
Joint Pain
Getting old doesn’t have to mean suffering from aching knees and hips caused by a deterioration of cartilage and ligaments. Extra calcium is one supplement that can strengthen your bones while adding chondroitin and glucosamine to your regimen can help cushion your joints and improve the condition of your soft tissue. If arthritis is a concern, turmeric and ginger added to your food or taken as a pill can help reduce inflammation.
Mental Conditions
Depression affects more than 300 million people around the world. It’s also big business for pharmaceutical companies. While there are many that are making a huge difference in patient’s quality of life, there are also homeopathic supplements available as well. St. John’s Wort, Vitamin D, and herbs like saffron and lavender. These can be as effective as a prescription medication so be sure to only use these under a doctor’s care.
Insomnia
Sleep medications can lead to addiction, so many people prefer to take a more natural approach to a good night’s sleep. Melatonin is a popular choice. It helps to regulate your body’s natural rhythm and hopefully, you get to sleep earlier and sleep more soundly. Other options include valerian, kava and chamomile tea.
The Bottom Line
Before you decide to add any of these to your healthcare routine, be sure to do your research and only use ones from reputable manufacturers. Also, always check when with your doctor and pharmacist before starting anything new. Supplements are not regulated by the FDA, but they can interact with other medications.
The bottom line when it comes to supplements is that they are often beneficial when used properly. Consider them when you are looking to improve your health and day-to-day life.
