Good health and well-being are things we should all strive for. We should be comfortable in our own situations in life, happy with the decisions that have brought us where we are to today, and with our health status – well-being can mean something different to everyone. Unfortunately, things like immunity and health are often taken for granted because life can be so busy at times that things are overlooked.
The best way to stay fit and healthy is to eat a nutrient-rich diet that contains plenty of vegetables, fruits, and other wholesome ingredients. Exercise also has a part to play, even if that means working out at home. And, as difficult as it may be, keeping a lid on stress will help too.
There are also a handful of supplements that can help boost your overall health and well-being.
Protein powder
Your immune system needs adequate protein to function correctly. While you can get protein from foods like eggs, meat, fish, poultry, nuts, pulses, and some grains, cooking these foods is not always practical.
The good news is that you can use protein powders to provide your body with the protein it needs to stay healthy.
Protein powders easily mix with water to make a smooth, tasty shake. They are very digestible too. Protein powders also contain a range of additional vitamins and minerals to support your health and enhance your recovery after exercise.
Not eating enough protein means your body has to break down muscle tissue to get the amino acids it needs – a process called catabolism. Lost muscle mass will affect both your physical performance and your metabolism.
Consuming adequate amounts of protein, about one gramme per pound of body weight per day, can help preserve muscle mass and, because protein has a high thermic effect, increase fat burning too. Protein is also very satiating, so it will help ward off unwanted hunger pangs and cravings.
Glutamine
Most people who use glutamine do so for its recovery-boosting effect. It’s also useful for decreasing post-exercise muscle soreness, increasing protein metabolism, and speeding up fat burning.
However, glutamine is also good for boosting gut health, and that is crucial for a properly functioning immune system.
Glutamine is also a key ingredient for glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from damage.
Glutamine, which is an isolated amino acid, is very easy to use. Just add one five-gramme serving to 10 oz. of water and drink it down. Alternatively, you can add it to juices, smoothies, or shakes.
Branch Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs)
Your body is made up of around 60% water. It uses water for essential processes, including temperature regulation, lubrication, transportation of nutrients, and keeping your skin supple. While you can go for several weeks without food, just a few days without water can be fatal. Water is essential for your health and well-being.
A lot of people are mildly dehydrated most of the time. This can cause a range of problems, from low energy levels to sluggish digestion to headaches and non-specific back pain. Dehydration can also affect your immunity.
Drinking a quarter to half a gallon of water per day can help prevent dehydration, but you may benefit from more than just plain water.
BCAAs contain electrolytes, which are minerals commonly lost during sweating and urination. BCAAs help ensure the fluids you consume end up in the right places in your body, inside of cells. BCAAs also contain vitamins and minerals that can help boost energy and immunity. Drink BCAAs several times a day in place of sugar-laden sodas and juices.
Final thoughts
While none of the products listed are a cure for illness, each one will still have a significant effect on your mental and physical well-being. Eating as healthily as you can, exercising where it suits you and your lifestyle, and using some well-chosen supplements should help improve your overall health and well-being.
