The daily dozen? Supporting health and longevity can seem like a never-ending battle — now, doctors are sharing the 12 supplements you should take to try to live longer, feel better and sleep more soundly. Vitamin D Vitamin D , also known as the “sunshine vitamin,” is produced when we expose ourselves to sunlight. Many people are deficient due to climate, indoor work and malnutrition.
(Vitamin D is found in fatty fish, milk and egg yolks, among other foods.) According to Harvard Medical School , older adults, people with chronic illnesses and those with darker skin are at higher risk of developing this deficiency. Vitamin D supports immune function and may reduce the risk of autoimmune diseases such as diabetes, asthma and rheumatoid arthritis.
It’s essential to brain health and may lower the risk of dementia . Dr. Lavan Baskaran, who specializes in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder care, told the Guardian last week that everyone should take a daily, supplemental dose of vitamin D.
“Unless I’m on a summer holiday, I take 1,000 IU (international units) daily,” Baskaran said. “If I forget, I’ll feel low, anxious and tired with achy joints.” Omega 3 Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to ease inflammation, relieve period pain and regulate hormone levels.
Oily fish are a rich source of omega-3. Doctors recommend a supplement for those who don’t get enough of the scaly stuff in their daily diets — although evidence of their benefits is mixed . Magnes.