7 Underrated Supplements To Boost Your Health

Dietary supplements can give anyone an extra leg up in establishing and maintaining a healthier lifestyle. Each one offers something for every individual and their specific needs. While many people know about the most common supplements like Vitamin C, biotin, and multivitamins, there are others that are often overlooked. Continue reading to learn more about these not-so-secret heroes of nutrition.

1. Cranberry

The cranberry, one of the world’s most robust fruits, is a highly potent source of nutrients and antioxidants. They can be eaten by themselves, made into a juice, included in a smoothie, or taken as a dietary supplement. These versatile red berries are also known to aid against inflammation and chronic disease. Unfortunately, when it comes to healing (as opposed to preventing) UTIs, the jury is still out—but this shouldn’t be a deterrent.

2. Vitamin K

Vitamin K may literally and figuratively not be as high up on the list. Despite that, it shouldn’t be overlooked because it can increase overall bone health and help with blood clotting. This vitamin can easily be found in many fruits and green vegetables, including kale, but it can also be taken as a supplement with your meals. No matter which way one chooses to consume it, Vitamin K is an excellent little thing to include in a healthy diet.

3. Turmeric

Turmeric’s yellow color cannot be mistaken. Adding it to foods and drinks (such as tea or a smoothie) can enhance flavor while aiding against inflammation. But its tangy taste isn’t everyone’s taste, which is why it can be combined with other spices such as yellow curry. Consuming a turmeric supplement with food will provide the same benefits without its flavor.

4. Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by the body to promote relaxation and good sleep. It is activated around the evening when the skies get dark. Its popularity has steadily risen in recent years, and with good reason. A melatonin supplement is a good idea for anyone wanting to fine-tune their sleep cycle. After taking one to three milligrams, the supplement’s effectiveness can be increased by shutting off all electronics and bothersome lights.

5. Dandelion

Yes, you read that right. Dandelions, those populous weeds that pop up in both the spring and fall, aren’t quite the nuisances everyone makes them out to be. Not only do they provide a food source of nectar and seeds for the birds and bees, they’re also one of the oldest natural remedies. By consuming a dandelion supplement, your upset stomach will improve and your appetite will increase. It can also be used as a natural diuretic, making passing urine an easier task. This pesky weed isn’t so pesky after all, isn’t it?

6. Ginseng

Two types of ginseng are believed to carry a multitude of health benefits: Asian ginseng and American ginseng. As supplements, both are energy boosters and stress reducers, and they can also help with sexual dysfunction in men. Currently, studies conducted on both ginseng roots are not 100% conclusive. It’s still regarded as safe for consumption, but as a rule of thumb, consume a slight amount initially.

7. Grape Seed Extract

To create grape seed extract is as simple as it sounds: extract juices from the seeds of grapes. Afterward is where the real fun begins. A grape seed extract (GSE) supplement is said to assist in lowering blood pressure, increasing blood flow, and even improving brain function. The antioxidants can help to make these benefits possible. It’s as if grapes couldn’t get any better than they already are!

While they are beneficial, dietary supplements alone should not replace a healthy, well-balanced diet. It’s important to take one with every meal to maximize its benefits. It’s also best to start small with supplement dosage and work your way up with time if needed. Next time you visit the grocery store, consider picking up one of these unsung supplements.