LAURA WARREN: Supplement your life – with a healthy and balanced diet

WITH so many supplements on the market, it can be very confusing to know what vitamins and supplements you really need to take, particularly as the first real cold snap of the Winter takes us in its icy grip!

It seems as if there’s a pill for absolutely everything these days, whether you want to lose or gain weight or have trouble sleeping, the all too common response is “there’s a pill for that”.

Realistically, if your diet is good enough and you’re getting enough nutrients naturally from good nutritious foods you don’t need vitamins or supplements. End of.

Clients often ask me what supplements they should take, and every time I tell them the same – try to eliminate packaged and processed foods and replace them with natural foods like whole grains, leafy green vegetables, and fruits and that will be enough to nourish your body.

The reality, of course, is that our hectic modern lifestyles don’t allow us to always take the healthy option.

Given this reality – and our sun-starved climate – two supplements I would always recommend are Vitamin B12 and Vitamin D.

The body needs vitamin D to protect against certain diseases and also to keep the bones healthy. It is also used to give the immune system a boost and can contribute to regulating blood pressure. I love the sun, but hey – we live in Ireland – so I compensate by popping a Vitamin D once a day.

Vitamin B12 is the nutrient that helps keep the blood cells and nervous system healthy. It also prevents a specific type of anemia, which causes people to become tired and weak. If you are following a vegan diet, B12 only naturally occurs in animal products.

However, it can also be found in some plant-based foods when they are fortified with this nutrient. If you are vegan and you’re not making a conscious effort to include fortified B12 food products then it’s likely you will need to take a supplement to prevent health problems.

My vitamin B12 and D buddies aside, otherwise the only supplement most normal healthy people will need is a wholesome and balanced diet!

*For more fun foodie and nutritional tips, visit: http://www.elitelivingnutrition.com