Today’s active woman has mastered the ability to balance family, work, and social responsibilities. This unending to-do list, coupled with constantly evolving nutritional needs, can be emotionally and physically draining. In order to function at the top of her game, it is vital that she provide her system with the compounds needed to stay healthy, energized, and strong. Let’s review some of the most fundamental aspects of women’s health, as well as some of the most effective support supplements.
Energy
Considering how on-the-go today’s woman is, she can’t afford to be lacking in the energy department. Some of today’s most effective energy-support supplements include B complex vitamins (which also support healthy hair, skin and nails), as well as Green Tea—a potent antioxidant. MCT Oil (medium chain triglyceride) serves as an excellent source of instant energy that also provides the body with a readily utilized source of beneficial fatty acids. L-Carnitine is another ideal supplement for energy. This amino-acid like compound transports fat into the mitochondria of cells, where it is then converted to energy.
Fitness
In addition to the obvious cosmetic appeal, maintaining a lean, healthy figure offers many important health benefits. In order to achieve this, it is important for busy, active women to consume a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and ensure that her body has all the tools needed to stay fit. Without adequate protein intake, the body will not have the building blocks needed to maintain lean muscle, produce hormones, increase strength, and stay focused. Consuming a quality protein supplement in between meals, or as a meal replacement, is an easy way to make sure that her protein needs are being met. Soy protein is high in phytoestrogens, which may support healthy estrogen levels.
Cognitive Support
The brain, like every other organ in the body, is constantly in need of nutrition. When the nutrients it needs are not being provided, the brain can’t do its job properly. Choline and Inositol are two unique members of the B vitamin family that help support healthy cognitive function. Phosphatidyl Serine (PS) is an effective phospholipid that helps relay messages throughout the body, while utilizing its antioxidant properties to protect neural cells. Some users combine PS with Ginkgo Biloba extracts for additional cognitive support. Studie have shown that the active compounds in Ginkgo may help support healthy neural activity and circulation.
Stress Management
Stress is a normal part of life, and a defense mechanism that prepares the body to deal with potential threats. Chronic and long-term stress, however, can snowball throughout the body, negatively impacting the normal function of several major systems. In addition to practicing stress reduction activities, such as exercise, meditation, and yoga, a number of dietary supplements have been shown in studies to help support a healthy, balanced mood. These include GABA, Relora®, St. John’s Wort, Kava, and Valerian root extract.
Healthy Bones
Women are four times more likely to develop osteoporosis compared to men, and one in two women over the age of 50 are expected to suffer a related fracture. A growing body of experts believes that these statistics may be directly related to deficiencies in key nutrients such as vitamin D, vitamin K, and calcium. Some studies have suggested that supplementation, especially among women who do not get these nutrients from their diet, may benefit significantly from supplementation.
Hormonal Support
Throughout her life, a woman’s hormone production and activity will undergo many changes. The nutritional sciences have helped us better understand which nutrients and natural compounds can be taken safely to ensure balance and healthy hormone levels. Herbs such as Red Clover, Black Cohosh, Dong Quai, Wild Yam, Red Raspberry, and Chasteberry have been shown to support a wide range of female health concerns, including several associated with menopause. Also, natural Progesterone lotions are becoming a more popular alternative to conventional hormone therapy.
References
NOW Foods Inc. (n.d.). Women’s Health. Retrieved from http://www.nowfoods.com/idc/groups/public/documents/digital_asset/078588.pdf
