#DietaryAdvice

A new wave of expert advice is challenging the belief that popping supplements can boost brain function, urging Thai readers to prioritise healthy living and balanced diets over quick fixes. According to a comprehensive report by a team of registered dietitians, several widely advertised supplements might actually endanger, rather than enhance, cognitive performance—news with far-reaching implications for Thailand’s rapidly ageing society and health-conscious youth. (EatingWell)

With the promise of sharper memory and better focus, brain health supplements have become staples on pharmacy shelves from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. But registered dietitians cited in the latest review warn these pills can give a false sense of security or even cause harm, especially when consumed in high doses or without medical supervision. The five supplements flagged as concerning are: high-dose vitamin E, high-dose vitamin B6, ginkgo biloba, concentrated caffeine supplements, and omega-6 fatty acid supplements.

A growing body of global research is spotlighting an increasingly simple, yet potentially transformative, dietary strategy: meal sequencing—eating your foods in a specific order, starting with protein and fiber-rich vegetables and ending with carbohydrates. Recent studies reveal that not only what you eat, but the order in which you eat it, can have powerful effects on blood sugar, appetite, and long-term health, especially for Thai people seeking practical ways to prevent diabetes and manage weight.

As more individuals become health-conscious, the interest in probiotic supplements has surged, offering a potential solution for those looking to support their gut and heart health, among other benefits. In light of this growing trend, three respected dietitians have provided guidance on how to select the best probiotic supplements tailored to individual health needs, which may be particularly beneficial for Thai readers seeking to navigate the crowded supplement market.

Probiotics, often found in fermented foods like yogurt and kefir, are live bacteria that may offer a range of health advantages, such as improving gut barrier function and possibly lowering cholesterol. For those who do not regularly consume these foods, supplements present an alternative. However, choosing the right probiotic isn’t as straightforward as picking a brand off the shelf; it requires a deeper understanding of the strains and their specific benefits.

In an age where many health-conscious individuals seek ways to enhance nutrient intake, the role of vitamin B12 in maintaining vital bodily functions has never been more evident. With a staggering 12.5% of the U.S. population aged 19 or older deficient in this crucial vitamin, timely consumption of B12 is gaining attention, particularly among groups like older adults, vegetarians, and people with digestive disorders. Recent insights suggest that the time you take your B12 supplement can play a pivotal role in its efficacy, illuminating an often overlooked facet of nutritional science.

Fish oil supplements continue to make waves as a popular health trend, often hailed as a panacea for everything from heart health to cognitive improvement. Yet, the real question remains: are these supplements truly a wonder drug or just another expensive placebo in a bottle? With conflicting research findings and widespread use, understanding the role of fish oil supplements has become crucial for informed decision-making, particularly for health-conscious communities in Thailand.