Natural options to supplement your diet

Published: 08/14/2013 - Updated: 06/17/2016

To consume a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is not always necessary to consume pills or powders to supplement our diet, since there are natural supplements that can help us to perfectly meet our needs for these nutrients.

Today we sacrifice our nutrition for some extra time resorting to the famous "fast food", which has pushed us to eat a diet high in protein, fat and carbohydrates but generally poor in vitamins and minerals. The solution came in the form of supplements, which are very well known too, but we may find useful options in other alternatives that have always been available and that nature has given us.

Pollen

This is a natural supplement, rich in vitamins and minerals, hormones, enzymes, and other components that act as natural antibiotics. Pollen contains amino acids and also vitamin B12. It is energising, revitalising and contributes to physical and mental performance of children. Granules can be consumed in a teaspoon each day and this dose may be incorporated into making desserts or sprinkled on fresh fruit.

Royal Jelly

Rich in vitamins such as A, B, C and E as well as minerals including calcium, phosphorus, copper, iron, silica, potassium and sulfur. It is useful against physical and mental fatigue and is also recommended in cases of anemia, as it contributes to the formation of red blood cells.

Spirulina

In general, algae are known to be rich sources of amino acids and spirulina is no exception, as it can provide between 20-400 times more protein than some meat sources. It is also rich in vitamin B12 and minerals.

Brewer Yeast

This is a natural source of vitamin B, which has gained popularity in recent years. Suitable for skin, hair and nails, yeast adds protein and even minerals like selenium to our diets. It is advisable for people who have physical and mental wear in their daily activities and can be used as an affordable option for those interested in gaining muscle mass, as long as you maintain a proper eating plan.

Fucus

Ideal for those seeking a supplement for reducing appetite, fucus is a type of seaweed which, as well as being rich in vitamins A, B2, C and E, it is rich in algin, a polysaccharide that promotes satiety. This seaweed is also recommended for its purifying effect in the blood because it facilitates the formation of hemoglobin and reduces blood cholesterol levels.

Flax seeds

These seeds are a rich source of healthy fatty acids such as linoleic acids that contribute to the prevention of cardiovascular disease. Flax seeds are indicated to treat constipation problems because they are a rich source of fibre, as well as to promote good digestion. They can be crushed and sprinkled on soups, juices, yoghurt and desserts, or simply eaten instantly.

Alfalfa sprouts

They are rich in protein and minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, sulfur, phosphorus and zinc. To enjoy their benefits, you just need to include them as part of smoothies, juices or salads in your diet.

Most of these foods can be easily included in your diet and are generally considered safe for consumption. However, do not forget to check your tolerance, starting with small doses of food before building up to a more regular pattern of consumption.

If your desire is to get an adequate intake to get specific therapeutic benefits of each of the aforementioned natural supplements, it is important to consult a specialist.

About the author
  • Miriam Reyes

    Miriam Reyes is a professional expert in nutrition and dietetics. She has more than 12 years of experience in caring for patients with overweight and eating problems. She studied at the Universidad del Valle de Atemajac (UNIVA), where she obtained a degree in nutrition. Linkedin profile.