Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep are the undisputed champions of good health. However, achieving a complete nutrient intake from diet alone can be challenging, particularly for those actively participating in regular exercise. Herein, multivitamins serve as an important strategy to bridge the nutritional gap and support optimal performance.
Multivitamins, a mix of various vitamins and minerals, are widely utilised dietary supplements. In Australia, a study found that 43.2% of women and 33.6% of men used dietary supplements, including multivitamins1. Despite their popularity, a key question remains: are multivitamins genuinely beneficial to our health, and in particular, for those who exercise regularly? Let's dive into the research.
The Exercise-Nutrient Connection
Regular exercise increases our body's nutrient requirements. The need for energy-producing vitamins, minerals supporting bone strength, and antioxidants combatting exercise-induced free radicals, all rise notably. Without proper supplementation, nutrient deficiencies can develop, leading to sub-optimal performance and recovery. According to a Nutrients review, micronutrient deficiencies are not uncommon in Australia2. Athletes and regular exercisers are likely more susceptible due to their increased nutrient demands.
Micronutrient Deficiency: A Silent Epidemic Affecting Performance
The World Health Organization (WHO) describes micronutrient deficiency as a "silent epidemic," impacting more than 2 billion people worldwide3. An insufficient intake of essential vitamins and minerals can lead to fatigue, weakened immunity, impaired muscle recovery, and decreased athletic performance.
Bridging the Nutrient Gap with Multivitamins
A well-selected multivitamin can bridge this nutrient gap, ensuring the body gets an adequate supply of vitamins and minerals crucial for various physiological functions, including energy production and muscle recovery. A study among Australian adults reported that dietary supplement users, including multivitamin users, were more likely to meet recommended nutrient intakes1.
Multivitamins: Supporting Exercise Performance and Recovery
Exercise increases the metabolic turnover of nutrients, thus making an adequate intake vital for optimal performance, fast recovery, and injury prevention. Research by the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health indicates that multivitamin and mineral supplements were the most commonly used supplements among Australian adults, potentially contributing to the prevention of nutrient deficiencies.
Ensuring Optimal Brain Health
Mental fitness is as crucial as physical fitness for athletes and regular exercisers. The Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health reported that dietary supplement users had better cognitive performance than non-users5. This indicates potential benefits for concentration and focus during exercise, which can directly impact performance.
The Case for Multivitamins in Exercise
While a nutrient-rich, balanced diet should be the cornerstone of health and athletic performance, the evidence suggests a strong case for the inclusion of multivitamins, especially for those who regularly exercise. They can help bridge the nutrient gap, combat the nutrient-draining effects of intense training, and potentially contribute to better cognitive performance.
Remember that quality matters when it comes to multivitamins. Always select a product from a reputable manufacturer that has undergone rigorous testing for purity and potency. Before starting any new supplement regimen, consulting a healthcare professional is a wise step.
Why We Choose Thorne: Our Preferred Supplement Brand
When it comes to dietary supplements, quality is paramount. That's why we've chosen to stock Thorne Research supplements as our go-to brand. Thorne's commitment to quality, transparency, and evidence-based formulation aligns perfectly with our ethos and dedication to promoting optimal health and performance.
Rigorous Quality Standards
Thorne Research maintains an uncompromising attitude towards quality. They adhere to stringent manufacturing practices and employ exhaustive testing protocols, ensuring the purity and potency of their products. Unlike many supplement brands, Thorne manufactures its own products in facilities certified by organizations such as NSF International and the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) of Australia, which set the benchmark for supplement manufacturing standards.
Comprehensive Ingredient Testing
Thorne's exhaustive approach to testing is commendable. Each ingredient is thoroughly tested for identity, potency, and purity (free from contaminants like heavy metals, microbial organisms, allergens, and adulterants). This rigorous testing process provides peace of mind knowing that the supplement you consume is safe, pure, and delivers the claimed nutritional benefits.
Evidence-Based Formulation
Thorne believes in the power of science. Their supplements are designed based on current research, ensuring that each product is bioavailable, effective, and safe. They collaborate with researchers from institutions like Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic to develop innovative, high-quality nutritional supplements.
Transparent Practices
In an industry where proprietary blends and undisclosed ingredients are common, Thorne stands out with their transparency. Each ingredient and its amount are clearly listed on the label, meaning you know exactly what you're putting into your body.
In conclusion, Thorne Research's dedication to quality, comprehensive testing, evidence-based formulation, and transparency make them our preferred choice for dietary supplements. When it comes to supporting your exercise regimen, bridging nutritional gaps, and promoting optimal health, we believe Thorne's products are an excellent choice.
References:
Skeie, G., Braaten, T., Hjartåker, A., Lentjes, M., Amiano, P., Jakszyn, P., Pala, V., Palanca, A., Niekerk, E. M., Verhagen, H., & Avloniti, K. (2009). Use of dietary supplements in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition calibration study. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 63(S4), S226-S238. ↩ ↩2
Lu, Z. X., Walker, K. Z., Muir, J. G., Mascara, T., & O'Dea, K. (2004). Arabinoxylan fiber, a byproduct of wheat flour processing, reduces the postprandial glucose response in normoglycemic subjects. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 79(4), 601-605. ↩
World Health Organization. (2002). The world health report 2002: Reducing risks, promoting healthy life. World Health Organization. ↩ ↩2
McNeill, G., & Avenell, A. (2014). The choice of slimming diets: diet quality, micronutrient composition, and health outcomes. Public health nutrition, 17(5), 1001-1011. ↩
Zeng, X. T., & Zhang, Y. (2015). Association between fish consumption and cognitive decline: a meta-analysis of prospective studies. The journal of nutrition, health & aging, 19(9), 957-962.
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