Dietary supplements for energy and vigor: a full guide for choosing and applying
I. Understanding energy deficit and fatigue
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Definition and prevalence: Energy deficiency (or fatigue) is a subjective sensation of a lack of physical and/or mental energy. It can vary from mild fatigue to exhausting weakness, which significantly affects everyday life. The prevalence of fatigue is extremely high, affecting a significant part of the population in different periods of life. Factors, such as stress, lack of sleep, malnutrition, sedentary lifestyle, chronic diseases and taking certain drugs, contribute to this prevalence.
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Physiological mechanisms of fatigue: At the cellular level, fatigue is associated with violations in the production and use of energy. Mitochondria, energy “power plants” of cells, play a key role. Mitochondria dysfunction caused by oxidative stress, a lack of nutrients or genetic factors leads to a decrease in the production of ATP (adenosineric), the main source of energy for cellular processes. In addition, a shortage of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine, affecting motivation, mood and wakefulness, can contribute to a feeling of fatigue. Inflammation, hormonal imbalance and impaired operation of the immune system can also play a role.
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Causes of energy deficit:
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Lack of sleep: Chronic lack of sleep disrupts circus rhythms, hormonal balance and cognitive functions, leading to fatigue and reducing performance.
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Inal meals: A deficiency of important nutrients, such as iron, vitamins of group B, vitamin D, magnesium and coenzyme Q10 necessary for energy production, can cause fatigue. Processed foods with a high sugar content and low nutrient content can cause sharp jumps and drops of blood sugar, leading to energy failures.
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Stress: Chronic stress activates the reaction “Behas”, leading to increased production of cortisol. The prolonged effect of cortisol can deplete the adrenal glands, leading to fatigue of the adrenal glands and chronic fatigue.
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Sedentary lifestyle: The lack of physical activity reduces the effectiveness of the cardiovascular system, reduces the level of energy and promotes fatigue.
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Dehydration: Even slight dehydration can reduce energy level and worsen cognitive functions.
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Medical reasons: Fatigue can be a symptom of various diseases, such as anemia, hypothyroidism, diabetes, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, depression and autoimmune diseases.
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Diagnosis and identification of the reasons: It is important to consult a doctor to identify the main causes of fatigue. Diagnosis may include a blood test (to detect anemia, deficiency of vitamins, hormonal disorders and signs of inflammation), assessment of thyroid function, urine analysis and, if necessary, other studies. A thorough collection of the history, including information about sleep, nutrition, stress and medications taken, is also crucial.
II. Classification of dietary supplements for energy and vigor
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Stimulants:
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Caffeine: One of the most popular stimulants, caffeine blocks adenosine receptors in the brain, reducing drowsiness and increasing vigilance. It can also improve physical performance and cognitive functions. However, excessive caffeine consumption can lead to anxiety, insomnia and addiction.
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Guarana: Contains caffeine and other stimulants that provide a softer and long -lasting effect compared to coffee.
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Ginseng: Adaptogen, which can increase energy level, improve cognitive functions and reduce stress.
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Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus): Another adaptogen that can increase stress resistance and improve physical performance.
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Yerba Mate: The traditional South American drink containing caffeine, theobromine and theophylline that have a stimulating effect.
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Adaptogens:
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Rodiola pink: Adaptogen, which can increase stress resistance, improve cognitive functions and reduce fatigue.
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Ashwaganda: Ayurvedic plant that can reduce stress, improve sleep and increase energy.
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Holy Basil (Tulsey): Adaptogen, which can reduce stress, improve mood and increase immunity.
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Chinese lemonnik: Adaptogen, which can improve physical performance, reduce fatigue and increase mental clarity.
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Vitamins and minerals:
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B vitamins B (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12): Key cofactors in energy metabolism. B vitamins deficiency can lead to fatigue, weakness and cognitive impairment. B12 is especially important for the health of the nervous system and the production of red blood cells.
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Iron: It is necessary to transfer oxygen in the blood. Iron deficiency (anemia) can cause fatigue, weakness and shortness of breath.
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Magnesium: Participates in more than 300 enzymatic reactions, including energy production. Magnesium deficiency can lead to fatigue, muscle cramps and insomnia.
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Vitamin D: It is important for the health of bones, immune function and energy metabolism. Vitamin D deficiency can cause fatigue, muscle weakness and depression.
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Vitamin C: An antioxidant that can protect from oxidative stress and improve immune function. It is also necessary for the production of collagen, important for the health of connective tissue.
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Coenzim Q10 (COQ10): Participates in the production of energy in mitochondria. COQ10 can improve physical performance and reduce fatigue, especially in people with cardiovascular diseases or taking statins.
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Amino acids:
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L-Carnitin: Helps to transport fatty acids to mitochondria for energy production. L-carnitine can improve physical performance and reduce fatigue.
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Creatine: Participates in the production of ATP. Creatine can improve strength indicators and reduce fatigue during intense exercises.
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Taurin: Amino acid that can improve cognitive functions and reduce stress. It can also have antioxidant properties.
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Tyrosine: Precursor Neurotransmitters of Dopamine and Noreprainaline. Tyrosin can improve mental clarity and reduce fatigue during stress.
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Other dietary supplements:
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Fish: Sugar that is involved in the production of ATP. Ribose can improve physical performance and reduce fatigue, especially in people with fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome.
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Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA): An antioxidant that can improve the function of mitochondria and reduce oxidative stress. ALA can be useful for people with diabetes or neuropathy.
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Royal milk: Contains vitamins, minerals, amino acids and other nutrients. Flot milk can increase energy level and improve the immune function.
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Bee pollen: Contains vitamins, minerals, amino acids and antioxidants. Bee pollen can increase energy level and improve the immune function.
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Chlorella and Spirulina: Algae, rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and protein. Chlorella and spirulina can increase energy level and improve the immune function.
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III. Criteria for choosing dietary supplements for energy and vigor
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Determining the reasons for fatigue: Before taking any dietary supplements, it is important to determine the main reasons for your fatigue. Consult a doctor to exclude medical reasons and obtain recommendations for nutrition and lifestyle.
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The choice of dietary supplements based on needs: Choose dietary supplements that meet your specific needs and deficits. If you have iron deficiency, take iron additives. If you have stress, consider adaptogens. If you experience fatigue during training, consider creatine or L-carnitine.
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Quality and safety:
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Choose dietary supplements from reliable manufacturers: Look for companies with a good reputation that tests their products for cleanliness and efficiency.
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Check the availability of certificates: Look for certificates of independent organizations such as NSF International, USP or Consumerlab.com. These certificates guarantee that the product meets the stated requirements and does not contain harmful pollutants.
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Read reviews: Read the reviews of other users to find out about their experience with the product.
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Avoid products with dubious ingredients or unreasonable statements: Be careful with products that promise quick results or contain ingredients that are not confirmed by scientific research.
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Output form: Bades are available in various forms, such as tablets, capsules, powders, liquids and chewing sweets. Choose a form that is most convenient for you.
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Dosage: Always follow the instructions on the label or recommendations of the doctor. Start with a low dose and gradually increase it if necessary.
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Interaction with drugs: If you take any medicine, consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking any dietary supplements. Some dietary supplements can interact with medicines and reduce their effectiveness or cause side effects.
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Possible side effects: All dietary supplements can cause side effects, although rarely. The most common side effects include stomach disorder, nausea, diarrhea and headache. If you experience any side effects, stop taking a dietary supplement and consult a doctor.
IV. Recommendations for the use of dietary supplements for energy and vigor
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Combined approach: Bades should be used as an addition to a healthy lifestyle, and not as a replacement for a healthy diet, sufficient sleep and regular physical exercises.
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Nutrition:
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Balanced diet: Use a variety of products rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Include fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, low -fat proteins and healthy fats in your diet.
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Regular nutrition: Eat regularly to maintain a stable blood sugar.
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Avoid processed products and sugar: Limit the consumption of processed products, sugar and refined carbohydrates that can cause energy failures.
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Sufficient water consumption: Drink enough water during the day to avoid dehydration.
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Dream:
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Observe sleep mode: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends.
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Create comfortable sleeping conditions: Make your bedroom dark, quiet and cool.
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Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bedtime: Caffeine and alcohol can disrupt sleep.
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Limit the use of electronic devices before bedtime: Light from the screens of electronic devices can suppress the production of melatonin, sleep hormone.
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Physical activity:
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Regular exercises: Do physical exercises for at least 30 minutes a day of most days of the week.
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Aerobic exercises: Aerobic exercises, such as walking, running, swimming and cycling, can improve the operation of the cardiovascular system and increase energy.
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Power exercises: Power exercises can increase muscle mass and improve metabolism.
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Stress management:
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Relaxation techniques: Practice relaxation techniques, such as meditation, yoga or deep breath.
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Spend time in nature: Spend in nature to reduce stress and improve mood.
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Take a hobby: Take a hobby and the activities that you like.
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Communicate with friends and family: Maintain social ties with friends and family.
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Sample dietary supplement schemes depending on the reasons for fatigue:
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With fatigue caused by a deficiency of vitamins and minerals: A complex of B vitamins, iron (with deficiency), vitamin D (with deficiency), magnesium.
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With fatigue caused by stress: Ashvaganda, Rodiola Pink, Holy Basil (Tulsey).
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With fatigue caused by physical exertion: Creatine, L-Carnitine, Coenzyme Q10.
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With fatigue caused by chronic fatigue syndrome or fibromyalgia: Coenzim Q10, Riboza and mag.
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Efficiency monitoring and reception correction: It is important to track your sensations and general condition when taking dietary supplements. If there is no improvement or side effects appear, you should stop taking and consult a doctor. Perhaps you need to adjust the dosage or the choice of another dietary supplement.
V. Research and evidence -based database efficiency
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Caffeine: Numerous studies confirm the effectiveness of caffeine to increase vigilance, improve cognitive functions and physical performance. However, individual tolerance and possible side effects should be taken into account.
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Adaptogens (Rhodiola Pink, Ashvaganda): Studies show that adaptogens can reduce cortisol levels, improve stress resistance and reduce fatigue. Additional studies are needed to confirm long -term efficiency.
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B vitamins B: Clinical tests show that B vitamins adds can improve energy and cognitive functions in people with a deficiency of these vitamins.
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Iron: Studies confirm that iron additives are effective for the treatment of anemia and increasing energy levels in people with iron deficiency.
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Coenzim q10: Studies show that COQ10 can improve physical performance and reduce fatigue in people with cardiovascular diseases or taking statins.
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L-Carnitin: Some studies show that L-carnitine can improve physical performance and reduce fatigue, especially in older people.
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Creatine: Numerous studies confirm the effectiveness of creatine to increase strength indicators and reduce fatigue during intensive exercises.
VI. Cautions and contraindications
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Individual intolerance: Some people can be sensitive to certain dietary supplements and experience side effects, such as stomach disorder, nausea or allergic reactions.
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Interaction with drugs: Some dietary supplements can interact with medicines and reduce their effectiveness or cause side effects. For example, St. John’s wort can reduce the effectiveness of antidepressants and contraceptives. Caffeine can enhance the effect of stimulating drugs.
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Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Some dietary supplements are contraindicated in pregnant and nursing women. Before taking any dietary supplements during pregnancy or breastfeeding, you need to consult a doctor.
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Chronic diseases: People with chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, kidney or liver diseases, need to consult a doctor before taking any dietary supplements.
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Age restrictions: Some dietary supplements are not recommended for children.
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Excessive consumption: Excessive consumption of some dietary supplements can be dangerous. For example, an overdose of iron can lead to organs. Excessive caffeine consumption can cause anxiety, insomnia and heart problems.
VII. Legal and ethical aspects of the use of dietary supplements
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Bad regulation: Bades are not adjusted as strictly as medicines. In different countries, there are different rules regarding the production, sale and marking of dietary supplements.
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Responsibility of manufacturers: Bad manufacturers are responsible for ensuring the safety and efficiency of their products. However, since dietary supplements do not go through strict clinical trials, such as medicines, it is important for consumers to be careful and choose products from reliable manufacturers.
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Informed consent: Doctors must inform patients about the risks and advantages of admission of dietary supplements and receive their informed consent.
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Marketing and commercials: Advertising of dietary supplements should be true and should not mislead consumers.
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Ethical considerations: It is important to use dietary supplements responsibly and not abuse them. Do not use dietary supplements as a replacement for a healthy lifestyle or to treat serious diseases without consulting a doctor.
VIII. Prospects for research and development of dietary supplements for energy and vigor
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The study of new adaptogens and plant extracts: Studies of new adaptogens and plant extracts continue, which can increase energy level and improve stress resistance.
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Personalized approach to the choice of dietary supplements: The development of genetic tests and other diagnostic methods will allow you to more accurately determine individual needs for nutrients and choose dietary supplements that are most effective for a particular person.
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Development of new forms of prolonged dietary supplements: New forms of producing dietary supplements are developed, such as liposomal additives and transdermal plasters, which can improve the absorption and bioavailability of active ingredients.
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Studying the influence of dietary supplements on the intestinal microbia: Studies of the effect of dietary supplements on the intestinal microbia and its connection with the level of energy and the general state of health are carried out.
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Clinical trials to confirm the effectiveness of dietary supplements: Further clinical trials are needed to confirm the effectiveness of dietary supplements and determine the optimal dosages and reception schemes.
IX. Alternative approaches to increasing energy and vigor
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State therapy: Light therapy can be effective for the treatment of seasonal depression and improving sleep.
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Acupuncture: Acupuncture can reduce stress and improve energy level.
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Massage: Massage can relax muscles and reduce stress.
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Aromatherapy: Aromatherapy can improve mood and reduce stress. Some essential oils, such as rosemary and lemon, can increase the level of energy.
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Meditation and Minfulness: Meditation and Mindfulnes can reduce stress and improve concentration.
X. Resources for additional information
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National Institute of Health (NIH): Provides information about dietary supplements and their effectiveness.
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Office for Sanitary Supervision of the quality of food and US medicines (FDA): Regulates dietary supplements and provides information about the safety of products.
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ConsumerLab.com: An independent organization that tests dietary supplements for cleanliness and efficiency.
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Medical magazines and scientific articles: Provide information about recent studies in the field of dietary supplements.
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Doctors and other medical workers: They can provide individual recommendations for the selection and use of dietary supplements.