#Supplements

In a compelling personal narrative, health journalist Alice Levitt shares her experience confronting the inadvertent harm overuse of dietary supplements caused during her battle with Lyme disease. Despite being recommended over 20 daily supplements by a naturopath alongside regular medical treatment, Levitt discovered that excessive supplementation might have contributed to her prolonged illness rather than alleviating it. This revelation underscores growing concerns around consumer reliance on dietary supplements, raising questions about the balance between supplements and a balanced diet.

Recent research highlights the significant benefits of combining magnesium with several key supplements to enhance overall health and wellness. This strategy not only improves magnesium absorption but also supports muscle function, reduces stress, and boosts general fitness, making health regimens more comprehensive and efficient.

Why This Matters to Thai Readers

In Thailand, where traditional health practices often meet modern medicine, understanding the synergistic effects of supplements is increasingly relevant. This knowledge can empower Thai consumers to make informed decisions in a rapidly growing wellness market, which aligns with their holistic approach to health.

A striking revelation has emerged from a study published in 2024, identifying six commonly consumed herbal supplements linked to potential liver damage. As highlighted by a recent AARP article, these supplements include Ashwagandha, Black Cohosh, Garcinia Cambogia, Green Tea Extract, Red Yeast Rice, and Turmeric/Curcumin. While these botanicals are often praised for their purported health benefits, their association with liver toxicity raises significant health alarms, especially for older adults who are frequent users of such products.

In recent years, supplements such as multivitamins, magnesium, and others have surged in popularity among health-conscious individuals, both globally and within Thailand. Consumers often purchase these products aiming to enhance their energy levels, improve their overall health, or fill in dietary gaps. However, a comprehensive review by Dr. Trisha Pasricha, recently highlighted in an article from NZ Herald, has scrutinized the scientific evidence behind the supposed benefits of these popular supplements.

Magnesium, a mineral essential for human health, is gaining remarkable attention for its wide-ranging benefits and its impact on overall well-being. As one of the few supplements endorsed by Consumer Reports and celebrated by high-profile figures like Taylor Swift, magnesium’s popularity is rising and is strongly reflected in a global market value approaching $13 billion. Given its crucial role in the body, understanding how magnesium benefits health and the recommended daily intake is increasingly important for consumers in Thailand and beyond.

In a groundbreaking study, researchers have discovered that vitamin D supplementation may significantly reduce the risk of developing dementia. Published in the journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia Diagnosis, Assessment, & Disease Monitoring, the study analyzed data from nearly 12,500 older adults in the U.S. who were initially free of dementia. Surprisingly, the results indicated that those who took vitamin D supplements had a 40% lower incidence of dementia compared to those who did not MedicalNewsToday.

In recent years, creatine has gained attention beyond the typical weightlifting community, now attracting interest from women, particularly those in midlife, looking for its manifold benefits. Traditionally known for its muscle-enhancing properties, creatine supplementation is now being explored for its cognitive and overall health benefits, making it a potentially valuable addition for Thai women navigating the complexities of aging.

Creatine, a compound naturally produced in the body, plays a crucial role in creating ATP, the primary energy molecule utilized by muscle and brain tissues. While the body synthesizes creatine, the amount is often insufficient for individuals engaging in rigorous physical activity or experiencing age-related muscle decline. Thus, many are turning to supplements to bridge this gap, especially as creatine is mainly found in animal products like red meat, which may not be consumed in sufficient quantities to harness its full benefits. Recent research supports creatine’s ability to enhance muscle mass by allowing individuals to exert more energy during physical activities, thereby promoting better muscle growth and faster recovery. However, the benefits of creatine extend beyond the gym.

In today’s relentless world, managing stress has become more crucial than ever, especially for Thai society that values a serene lifestyle amidst urban growth. Recent research, including insights from USA Today, highlights the vital role of cortisol—the body’s primary stress hormone. While essential for energy and focus, prolonged high levels of cortisol have been linked to issues such as premature aging, poor sleep quality, and even cardiovascular diseases. Amy Goodson, a registered dietitian, emphasizes the dual nature of cortisol: beneficial in short bursts but potentially harmful if consistently elevated.