Supplements at 50
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I’ve never been big on supplements, but I hit 50 this year and worry that I’m not helping myself at all. What should I be taking?Well… if your family history reveals you could be in line for something or your doc has suggested you “keep an eye on” a future problem, expert pharmacist Shabir Daya says it might be worth thinking about…
BLOOD PRESSURE “If you have a history of blood pressure in your family or are simply worried about it I would recommend taking olive leaf extract,” says Shabir. “Studies indicate that taking olive leaf can reduce blood pressure reading by an average of 5%.” + His Pick? Super Strength Olive Leaf Extract by Swanson, £25 for 60 capsules.
HEART HEALTH Studies indicate that omega 3 essential fatty acids protect the heart in a number of ways. “Firstly, they prevent blood from coagulation and hence may prevent stokes. Secondly, they reduce triglycerides and hence cholesterol which plays a big part in heart disease. They’re also anti-inflammatory and inflammation in the body leads to heart disease.” + His Pick? Power of Krill by Life-Flo, £24.95 for 60 soft gels.
OSTEOPOROSIS Calcium is the first supplement that comes to mind but… “Most calcium supplements are ill-absorbed and can result in gastrointestinal problems,” says Shabir. He suggests we take a supplement that is highly absorbable. + His Pick? Bone Restore by Life Extension, £22.50 for 120 caps.
CHOLESTEROL If your level is rising, try red yeast rice which has been found to reduce cholesterol by an average of 30%. “Red yeast rice helps balance the good and bad cholesterol,” says Shabir. + His Pick? CholestSafe by Food Science of Vermont, £23 for 90 caps.
DIABETES Bet your doc is monitoring your blood glucose and good thing too as high levels are linked to failing eyesight, ageing and cholesterol. “Cinnamon is a great spice for the prevention of blood sugar problems,” suggests Shabir. + His Pick? GlucoActive Cinnamon Extract by Futurebiotics, £24 for 60 caps.