SUPER SUPPLEMENTS

Meet the health aisle’s hottest sidekicks, the extra support that can give your body a boost and help you have your best winter ever.

TURMERIC

Turmeric is a goldencoloured Indian spice which has been used in curries for thousands of years. However, the popularity of this spice has been rising due to the discovery of its powerful anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and antioxidant effects. While researchers haven’t yet determined how much we need to consume to achieve health benefits, turmeric shows promise in helping to reduce our risk of conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, heart disease and cancer.

FIBRE

The average adult needs 2535 grams of fibre each day to maintain a healthy digestive system. Unfortunately, many people are no longer meeting their fibre requirements. In addition to assisting with healthy digestion, fibre has also been found to assist with glucose regulation, weight loss and achieving healthy cholesterol levels in some people.

PROBIOTICS

Our gut contains approximately 100 trillion micro-organisms, such as bacteria, yeasts and fungi, some of which are beneficial for our health, and of course, some of which can make us sick. Probiotics are live good bacteria which can be taken to improve the balance of good bacteria in our body. They can be found in foods such as yoghurt, kombucha and sauerkraut, but can also be consumed as a powder or capsule. Increasing our body’s balance of good bacteria has been found to improve digestion, prevent disease and boost immunity.

MATCHA

Matcha tea is a young, delicate tea leaf which is high in antioxidants, amino acids and chlorophyll.

One of the best-known amino acids in matcha is L-theanine which is believed to assist with relaxation. Matcha also contains approximately three times more catechins than green tea. Catechins are a compound which helps to increase thermogenesis, and may assist with weight loss.

CRANBERRY

Cranberries are rich in flavonoids which are a type of antioxidant that may help to reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer. However, cranberries (and high dose cranberry supplements in particular), are best known for helping to prevent urinary tract infections. Cranberries contain a powerful compound called proanthocyanidin which interferes with the ability of bacteria to adhere to the bladder wall, therefore reducing your risk of infection.

MAGNESIUM

Magnesium is a mineral which our body needs in minute quantities to perform a range of functions including strengthen bones, assist with muscle function and maintain fluid balance.

It’s found in a variety of foods, so true deficiency is rare. However, magnesium supplements have been found to be beneficial for people who experience cramps and those who are malnourished. Additionally, new research suggests that magnesium may be beneficial for treating tinnitus.