Nutrient deficiencies exist extensively among many members of the U.S. population. Rich, poor, well, or sick–92 percent of the population is suffering from at least one mineral or vitamin deficiency based on the Dietary Reference Intakes. The entire country is overfed and undernourished. Even if you consume a “perfect” diet, the odds are something is missing.
Why?
It is a well-known fact that processed junk and fast foods have become staples in the American diet. Fresh, nutrient-rich foods are often considered taxing on time and finances, deeming these food choices a luxury rather than the standard at dinner tables throughout the country.
Furthermore, multiple studies, dating as far back as 1936 have found that the soil of farmland all across the globe is deficient in micronutrients, lowering their content in produce. To further prove this theory, in 2003, Canadian researchers compared the data on current vegetable nutrient content to data from 50 years ago. Their findings showed that the mineral content of cabbage, lettuce, spinach, and tomatoes had depleted from 400 milligrams to less than 50 milligrams throughout the twentieth century. And that’s just a sampling of what they found.
The fact is, even if processed junk food and fast food were not a part of the food supply, deficiencies would still be rampant, as soil quality is diminishing at a rapid rate and reducing the nutrient value of produce.
The numbers don’t lie. According to the CDC and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA):
- 9 out of 10 Americans are deficient in potassium
- 7 out of 10 are deficient in calcium
- 8 out of 10 are deficient in vitamin E
- 50 percent of Americans are deficient in vitamin A, vitamin C, and magnesium
- More 50 percent of the general population is vitamin D deficient, regardless of age
- Approximately 70 percent of elderly Americans are vitamin D deficient
What’s the solution?
For decades, researchers and major medical organizations have battled over the necessity of supplements in the diet. Even the American Medical Association, which had always taken a bold stand against supplements, wrote in a statement, “The Journal of the American Medical Association today is advising all adults to take at least one multivitamin pill each day.”
Quality supplements can help you restore and maintain your micronutrient levels for optimal health. Whether you are a top athlete or someone seeking wellness, your diet needs to be supported to reach your healthcare goals.
What supplements should you take?
There are a lot of nutrients that work together to allow the body to function optimally. So, how do you know which ones you need to be healthy and well?
Nutrient needs are as personal as your taste in music and clothing. That is why you should work with an experienced physician to get your nutrient levels tested for vitamin deficiency and maintain monitoring as your needs change throughout your life. Through specialized testing, your physician can help you identify the nutrients you are most deficient in and design a supplement regimen to meet your needs.
Of course, there are some nutrients, like vitamin D and K2, in which most Americans are deficient, and getting enough in the diet is nearly impossible. Get a jump start on repairing your nutrient deficiencies; these are the top supplements that benefit the most individuals:
Multivitamins. Large and extensive studies have found a quality multivitamin to be the most valued supplement an individual can take to support their long-term health. In an assessment of nearly 3 million people, less than 1 percent achieved adequate amounts of essential vitamins from diet alone. Basic nutrient deficiencies can leave the body susceptible to heart disease, breast and colon cancer, and many other adverse conditions. Choosing the right multivitamin is often difficult, which makes vitamin deficiency testing and a consultation with an expert physician essential.
Vitamin D. Vitamin D is the vitamin that functions like a hormone inside the body, meaning that much like your other hormones, it has a lot of really important roles to fill in keeping you healthy. Although vitamin D levels can be improved with daily sun exposure (on clear, sunny days), as well as consumption of cod liver oil, fortified dairy products, oysters, and eggs, supplementation is still necessary. Adequate levels of vitamin D are linked to mood, metabolism, and bone health, to name a few. Studies have shown that supplementing 800 IUs daily can reduce the risk of diseases associated with poor bone health.
Vitamin K2. Vitamin K2 is rapidly emerging as a superior micronutrient for achieving optimal health. For years, vitamin K2 has been well-known for its role in blood clotting factors, but scientists now understand it has more benefits, including protection against heart disease, formation of strong bones and promoting healthy skin, brain function, growth and development, as well as helping to prevent certain forms of cancer. Much like vitamin D, K2 can be sourced from the diet through grass-fed meat, such as lamb, liver and dark meat turkey. However, supplementation ensures absorption and sufficient intake.
Don’t leave your health to chance. Talk to your physician about specialized nutrient testing for vitamin deficiency and begin a regimen that will not only change your health but will optimize performance, productivity, and quality of life.
Call the biostation™ today at 888-754-1852 or contact us online to schedule your private, personal consultation.