Vitamins the World Can’t Get Enough Of!

It’s no surprise that as the world evolves, technology advances and information is made more readily available, people all over the globe are finding new and interesting ways to stay happy and healthy. But in 2009, with the economic downturn in full swing, which vitamins are flying off the shelves, the world over?

Multi-Vitamins: Many vitamin retailers have reported an unexpected sales increase of up to 20% after the recession began. Multi-vitamins have been exceptionally popular because they are easy to take and contain many essential vitamins and minerals in a once daily tablet or capsule.

Omega 3 Fatty Acids: With cardiovascular health a huge concern among the western world, omega 3 fatty acids are being talked about, not only for their role in heart wellbeing, but as new findings are discovered, omega 3’s are also understood to maintain joint health, brain power and the immune system .

Resveratrol: This nutrient is the product of chemical reactions that happen within red grapes when they’re attacked by fungi. Reseveratrol is a potent antioxidant and identified to sustain good heart health. Resveratrol is also used to increase stamina and endurance in athletes and others under strenuous exercise regimes.

Green Tea: Green tea is prepared by steaming fresh-picked green tea leaves. This technique allows the tea to retain many of the nutrients found in its original form. Green tea is a strong antioxidant and also exhibits anti-bacterial properties. Green tea is often consumed as a hot drink or in tablet form.

Probiotics: Probiotics are receiving global kudos. In Europe, the sale of probiotics has grown considerably and while eating yoghurt is common in Asian countries; probiotic supplements are gaining popularity there as well. The supplement is widely taken by consumers to promote digestive health among all ages. It is also believed to help those with chronic digestive ailments.

Fruit derived antioxidants: “Super-fruits” as they are widely known, are loaded with antioxidants and are readily available all year long. They are so popular because they offer immune support, anti-ageing properties and can be taken in liquid, tablet or capsule form.

Pure Cocoa: Women, rejoice! According to researchers, pure cocoa may be the best way to maintain a healthy heart. Polyphenols found in cocoa are thought to sustain and support vital functions of the heart. Cocoa also contains serotonin which is directly related to fighting off depression. Pure cocoa is often used in heart health protein shakes as well as diet snack bars.

Spirulina: The spiral-shaped freshwater plant is said to have one of the highest levels of nutrients of any food or plant on earth. Spirulina is regularly called a “super food” because of the benefits it can offer like strong nails, teeth and skin and its ability to support healthy immune and thyroid function, just to name a few.

Alpha-lipoic Acid: “ALA” as it is commonly referred to in the vitamin world, is a powerful antioxidant and can help fight against free radicals. It has the ability to restore vitamin E, vitamin C and CoQ10, and encourage glutathione production - an essential antioxidant which operates inside our cells to eliminate toxins, which ultimately aides in the protection of organs such as the liver and kidneys. ALA also helps with improving glucose metabolism as it converts glucose into energy.