To B or Not to B: Don't Forget A, D and C
By Stephen R. Farris
Don't forget to take your vitamins. That's a phrase we've all probably heard at least one time in our lives. What does it really mean, though? For starters, our bodies need vitamins and minerals for healthy, functioning organs, muscles and joints. Not to mention our nervous system and brain function. The list goes on and on for every nook and cranny in our bodies.
Walk into any grocery store or drug store and the shelves are loaded with all types of vitamin products to choose from. Sure, we may have read something or other about a particular brand, or how this specific multivitamin is the best overall. But are the little vitamin pills in the bottle the best for us? Yes, and no. Maybe. It kind of depends, such as women who are pregnant and need a multivitamin to help with folic acid, people who don't get enough sunlight and vegetarians, to name a few.
For the rest of us, studies have shown that the best way to get your vitamins and minerals is in your diet. A good balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, grains and meats is a better choice overall. Yes, we do live in a fast-paced world these days and yes, it can be very hard to work and then come home and cook a healthy meal. But in order to live healthy, you've got to take the time to cook healthy as well.
Where to Start
The supermarket (aka grocery store) is a good start. There, you'll find a variety of fresh fruits, berries, nuts, grains and vegetables loaded with plenty of vitamins and minerals needed to help sustain your body's needs. Especially the green vegetables. They're great to use in that morning smoothie, along with some added fruit since we're constantly on the go and it doesn't take that long to make.
Next
While you're at it, make sure you visit the meat section (unless you're taking the vegan approach to your diet). There you can find lean cuts of beef, fresh chicken and a variety of fish that all contain vitamins and minerals. If you're unsure how to prepare these, check out the web for sites that can help. Most offer tips on healthy cooking and meal prep as well.
In reality, talk with your doctor or local chiropractor. They can give you suggestions and helpful information in finding out about what vitamins and minerals you need on a daily basis and they can offer nutritional tips to help you get started to gain a more healthier lifestyle.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in West Melbourne, Fla.