A healthy diet includes optimal daily doses of carbs, fats, protein, minerals and vitamins. But getting all of these essential nutrients through food alone can be a difficult—if not impossible—task. Even if you make it a point to load up on fruits, veggies, lean proteins, whole grains and low-fat dairy or dairy substitutes, your body may still suffer some nutritional deficiencies. Dietary supplements can help compensate for such shortages, but for some, they can be a tough pill to swallow.
Down the hatch
When you think about taking supplements, you likely envision tossing back a pill, capsule or tablet. And for many, doing so is a non-issue. But how can people who have difficulty swallowing all of the above (including children and individuals with certain medical conditions) bulk up on the nutrients their bodies need to achieve and maintain optimum health?
Not to worry! Dietary supplements have come a long way in recent years and are now available in a variety of easy-to-ingest forms. Here are some simple and fun ways to enhance your nutrition—no pesky pills required:
Gummies
Reminiscent of gummy candies, chewable gummy supplements are a great choice for children and adults who are unable—or unwilling—to swallow pills, capsules or tablets. Check out these Vitafusion Fiber Well Gummies, which provide prebiotic fiber to aid in digestive health. You’ll love their delicious fruit flavor!
Fizzy drinks
Fizzy drinks, like Ola Loa Repair Fizzy Drink Mix, are a popular alternative to traditional supplement forms. This orange-flavored beverage contains over 30 essential nutrients to help promote bone, joint and heart health, support digestion and improve sleep. The fun, effervescent formula is an added bonus!
Powders
Powder supplements are another wonderful option for those who prefer to drink their vitamins and minerals. Simply mix the powder into the beverage of your choice (according to package instructions, of course) to enjoy a quick and easy nutritional boost. For example, add one teaspoon of Vitacost Vitamin C Powder to a glass of water or o.j. to bolster intake of the essential antioxidant. It’s really that simple!
Liquids
Liquid dietary supplements are typically taken by the (tea)spoonful. They’re an especially popular choice for little ones who have yet to master the art of swallowing pills. Consider Childlife Liquid Calcium with Magnesium, which is chock-full of the nutrients kids need and boasts a natural orange flavor they’ll love. It's even safe for infants!
Sprays
A little spritz of a supplement spray can go a long way toward improving your nutrition. Just one daily squirt of Pure Advantage B-12 Spray can help support concentration, boost energy and maintain heart health and metabolism.
Puddings
Believe it or not, dietary supplements are even available in pudding form! Coromega Omega-3 Orange Squeeze helps ensure you get your daily dose of omega-3 fatty acids in a pudding-like formula that’s as tasty (envision a creamsicle!) as it is easy to swallow. It can even be added to juices, yogurts and smoothies!
