Exploring the Benefits of Dietary Supplements
Feb 17 2024 UncategorizedDietary Supplements As Anti Inflammatory
While inflammation can be a natural response to an injury or infection, chronic low-grade inflammation can contribute to heart disease, cancer and type 2 diabetes. Dietary supplements can help reduce inflammation naturally.
SAM-e (S-adenosylmethionine) is produced naturally in the body and helps regulate genes that control the inflammatory response. It can also relieve pain and lower triglyceride levels.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are components of the phospholipids that make up the structures of cell membranes. They are concentrated at high levels in the retina, brain, and sperm [1]. These fats provide energy and help the body form eicosanoids that have many important functions, including controlling inflammation, vasoconstriction, and platelet aggregation.
The omega-3 fatty acids found in foods are ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), EPA, and DHA. ALA is found in plant oils and can be converted to EPA and DHA by the body. However, this process only provides a small amount of these fats. Therefore, consuming foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids is essential.
Studies have linked higher intakes of fish or dietary supplements containing EPA and DHA to reduced risk for heart disease. This is due to their ability to lower blood triglyceride levels. These effects also extend to other metabolic processes, such as glucose regulation. Additionally, these fats are associated with reduced inflammation and improved symptoms in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and dry eye.
Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 is made naturally in the body, where it helps generate energy for cell growth and protects cells from damage. It also acts as an antioxidant to counteract oxidative stress from too much free radicals. It exists in two forms, ubiquinol and ubiquinone; the body is able to convert back and forth between them.
A randomized controlled trial of patients undergoing coronary angioplasty showed that supplemental coenzyme Q10 significantly increased blood flow to the heart during the procedure (44). It was also associated with lower concentrations of C-reactive protein and less inflammation in the blood.
Coenzyme Q10 is likely effective in alternative medicine as a supplement for migraine headaches, reducing the symptoms of mitochondrial disorders such as Huntington’s disease and muscular dystrophy, lowering blood pressure and preventing a second heart attack in people who have already had one, enhancing physical performance in people with congestive heart failure, and slowing the progression of early Parkinson’s disease (45). More research is needed to support these uses.
Green tea extract
Green tea extract and its constituents have a wide range of potential benefits for the body, from aiding weight loss and energy levels to decreasing heart disease risk factors. However, higher doses of the ingredient EGCG may cause liver damage in some people.
This is especially important to keep in mind if you have preexisting liver problems. Green tea has also been linked to skin health and may help reduce acne breakouts and aging symptoms. Its antioxidant properties have been shown to decrease oxidative stress, which can lead to cellular aging and promote diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure.
A small study showed that consuming green tea reduced total and LDL cholesterol levels in people with type II diabetes. This could help prevent heart disease by reducing the buildup of fats in the arteries and lowering blood pressure (6). This benefit was attributed to EGCG, which inhibited fat absorption in cells and increased fat oxidation in the liver (7).
S-adenosylmethionine
S-adenosylmethionine is a naturally occurring compound in the body that enables a number of essential metabolic reactions. It is available in the United States as a dietary supplement and as a prescription drug in some European countries. It is sometimes used to treat depression, osteoarthritis, and fibromyalgia. It also serves as a primary methyl group donor for phase II hepatic detoxification and for biosynthesis of nucleic acids, proteins, phospholipids, creatine, melatonin and other molecules.
A natural product that is made by the body and found in many foods, SAMe has been shown to have antidepressant, arthritic and liver-protective effects. However, more research is needed to determine whether it has a role in reducing the symptoms of fibromyalgia. When taking SAMe, it is important to follow the instructions on the label and avoid other supplements that may interact with it. It is also best to store the supplements in a cool, dry place. This will help to preserve their potency.