Need a fall boost? Try these supplements

 
(NC) While a healthy diet should provide nearly all the nutrients you need, many of us can’t eat healthily all the time. Consider these supplements to help give you a boost, especially as we head into cold and flu season.
Multivitamin. Think of this as an extra insurance policy to help you get all the essential nutrients you need to stay healthy. In general, the following groups are most likely to have nutritional needs that a multi may help meet: people over 60, women of childbearing age and people on weight-loss diets. A recent study of almost 1,500 men found that taking a daily multivitamin may reduce the overall risk of cancer and of cataracts.
Vitamin D. The sun’s rays help our bodies produce this key vitamin, which aids in the development and maintenance of bones and teeth. We also get vitamin D from the foods we eat, including fatty fish, fortified plant-based beverages and eggs.
Ensuring you get enough vitamin D in your diet is key during our tough Canadian winters, as a deficiency may lead to osteoporosis and other ailments. According to Statistics Canada, about four in 10 people have insufficient vitamin D during the winter months.
If you think that you’re not getting enough vitamin D from diet alone, consider a supplement. In particular, Health Canada recommends that everyone over the age of 50 should take a daily vitamin D supplement of 400 IU.
Magnesium. This essential mineral supports a healthy immune system, keeps the heart beat steady, and helps bones remain strong. We get magnesium from the foods we eat; most foods that are high in magnesium are also high in fibre. These include nuts, seeds, green leafy vegetables and legumes.
While most of us get enough magnesium through diet, Statistics Canada reports that about three in 10 Canadians are deficient. Symptoms of magnesium deficiency include nausea, vomiting, sleepiness and weakness. Talk to your healthcare team about a magnesium supplement if you think you have a deficiency.
Head to your local Canadian Health Food Association member health food store to find a wide selection of essential supplements. Find your nearest location at chfa.ca.