RESCU: Which supplements do women need in their 20s, 30s, 40s and beyond?
Russell Scott:
20s:
For women in their 20s, maintaining a high energy level in the face of the stresses of work and a busy social life is a key requirement. Co Enzyme Q10 is not as well known as the B vitamins but is very effective in boosting energy.
In addition, a general purpose multi vitamin will help compensate for an “on the run” diet.
Vitamin D and calcium are important even at this age to protect your bones later in life. Calcium help builds bone mass, particularly when combined with exercise. Vitamin D enhances the absorption of calcium by the body.
Iron is important as pregnancy and menstruation increase the body’s iron requirements. (Specialty iron supplements should be only taken under medical practitioner supervision).
30s:
Women in their 30s need to pay extra attention to their overall health. A general purpose multi vitamin is a great way to ensure the body’s needs are met when diet isn’t perfect. In particular, Vitamins B and C are amongst the best vitamins for women. They are powerful antioxidants and essential for boosting immunity levels and reducing the effect of stress and pollution on our bodies.
For women in their 30s, coping with the multiple demands of work and family can be a major challenge. Siberian Ginseng is tried and tested supplement to help the body cope with stress and improve vitality and mood.
Vitamins C, E and K help keep your skin smooth and supple. Continue with Vitamin D and Calcium supplements.
Folic acid is important in preventing birth defects and the best way to get it is from a diet rich in dark green, leafy vegetables like spinach and broccoli.
40s and beyond:
Women in their 40s and beyond have an increasing overall need for vitamin supplementation as the body’s cells become less efficient in carrying out their functions. A general purpose multi vitamin is essential. Look for one that contains chromium as it can keep blood sugar stable and so help control weight. Vitamin B3 can help control cholesterol level and reduce harmful fat.
The other major need in this age group is calcium because of the increasing risk of osteoporosis. This is a good time for women to begin to build up good calcium storage for old age. Remember to take it with Vitamin D to aid absorption.
Siberian ginseng becomes even more useful at this age in increasing vitality and energy. And Co-enzyme Q10 will enhance stamina and energy. Try to take both.
RESCU: What are the best (general) vitamins for:
Russell Scott:
Increasing energy
- B group vitamins
- Co-Enzyme Q10
- Siberian Ginseng
Reducing stress
- B group vitamins
- Siberian Ginseng
Improving concentration and brain power
- Siberian Ginseng
- Ginkgo
- B group
Pregnancy
- Folate,
- Fish oil
- B group
During a cold or flu
- Vitamin C
- Zinc
- Andrographis
To preventing a cold or flu
- Vitamin C
- Zinc
- Echinacea
RESCU: How should we store our vitamins?
Russell Scott: Vitamins should be stored in a cool dry place in the original container with the lid firmly closed. If possible, keep the silica gel canister / sachet in place. Store below 30°C.
RESCU: Can you suggest any online resources that can teach us more about vitamins?
Russell Scott:
Rescu. Recommends:
We enjoyed trialling Vitamints. They combine the health benefits of vitamins with the delicious taste of mints. They come in a handy, portable tin so you can carry them with you all day.
There are currently 8 types of Vitamints, from the stress relieving Calm to the brain boosting Focus. Our personal favourite was the Energy Vitamints. It contains B vitamins, vitamin C and Co-Enzyme Q10 to build your energy reserves and help maintain stamina and endurance.
Vitamints are RRP: $9.90 (for 60). They are available from Priceline and selected pharmacies.
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