Everything You Need to Know About Beauty Super-Supplements
By Danielle Fox for The EDIT
Safety in supplements
Not all supplements are proven. Always read labels and do your research beforehand. Examine.com, an independent US supplement resource, is a good starting point. Try opting for capsules filled with oil or powder, as these are more likely to be as close to ‘food state’ as possible. Molded tablets often contain fillers and can be difficult to digest. For any chronic problems, make sure to consult a professional who can screen for potential allergies or complications. Above all, remember that supplements are just that – an addition to a well-balanced diet. In other words, popping vitamins is no substitute for healthy eating. If you’re willing to give them a try, here are our suggestions, below, to treat every beauty issue.
The problem: Blemishes and lackluster skin
The supplement solution: Probiotics
In recent years, probiotics have become synonymous with helping maintain good digestive health. Now, emerging research suggests that the benefits may extend to your skin. According to studies by L’Oréal, acne- or rosacea-prone skin has shown improvement with daily probiotic use. The probiotics line the gut and create a healthy, sealed barrier, which represses the inflammation that can trigger acne or rosacea and dull skin.
Try: OptiBac Probiotics contains five billion inflammation-beating micro-organisms (nutricentre.com). “Look for a probiotic with bacteria in its billions for a higher-strength dose, and keep refrigerated,” says nutritionist Amelia Freer.
The problem: Sleeplessness
The supplement solution: Magnesium
It is estimated that more than a third of us suffer from insomnia. Magnesium, considered the anti-stress mineral, has been found to decrease cortisol, the ‘stress hormone’ that can keep you up at night. It’s also been proven to have a positive effect on depression.
Try: Bodyism’s magnesium-rich Clean and Lean Serenity Powder. Mix one scoop with water or milk and drink before bedtime.
The problem: Lack of Energy
The supplement solution: Coenzyme Q10
Your body requires coenzyme Q10 for basic cell function, but it is most crucial during a process called the Kreb’s Cycle of energy production. The molecule Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) generates cellular energy, which is then converted into Adenosine Diphosphate (ADP), the molecule essential for muscle contraction. In order to convert ADP back into ATP, the cycle requires a number of nutrients, including coenzyme Q10. “Think of ATP as a battery that produces the energy we need to keep going,” says pharmacist and founder of Victoria Health, Shabir Daya. “It goes flat [when converted to ADP] and then recharges using coenzyme Q10.”
Try: Vitabiotics Ultra Co-Q10 (vitabiotics.com)
The problem: Workout fatigue
The supplement solution: L-carnitine
L-carnitine is an amino acid compound that prevents exhaustion during exercise by enhancing the rate that oxygen is delivered to muscles and blocking lactic acid build-up, the cause of muscle soreness. It can also provide a cognitive boost by increasing energy to the brain, helping us to think more clearly.
Try: Neat Nutrition has added Matcha Green ea to its lean protein powder, which contains l-carnitine, to help kick-start metabolism and break down fats. (neat-nutrition.com)
The problem: High stress levels
The supplement solution: L-tyrosine
In pressurized situations, the body secretes the chemicals noradrenaline and dopamine to keep the symptoms of anxiety at bay. But anxiety levels begin to rise as these finite chemicals deplete. L-tyrosine helps the body to produce more again, reducing stress and boosting your mood.
Try: Going into a difficult meeting? Take an L-tyrosine capsule one hour before kick off. (solgar.com)
Health Hits
The Super Elixir — A mix of vitamins, enzymes and pre- and probiotics support the body’s functionality.
Bodyism’s Clean and Lean Body Brilliance — Boosts your metabolism and staves off sugar cravings.
Fountain The Beauty Molecule — Contains resveratrol and hyaluronic acid to help fight the signs of aging.
David Kirsch Wellness Co. LEMON Vitamin Mineral Powder — A simple shortcut to your daily vitamin and mineral intake.
