New Year, New You!

If you're like me, positive health changes are a top priority for a new year's resolution. The top two things I want to do in the new year are drink more water and eat a balanced diet. Drinking water is essential! Water is important for so many essential functions in our body, so it's really important to make sure we are drinking enough water this year. A balanced diet can help to ensure that our body gets proper vitamins and nutrients that we need to keep our bodies functioning correctly.

Over-the-counter vitamins and supplements should not be used as a replacement for a balanced diet - but they can help if you have a certain vitamin deficiency or have an increased need for a certain nutrient. That being said, there are some general recommendations for vitamins and supplements that may be beneficial for overall health in the new year:

1. Vitamin D: Vitamin D is important for the health of your bones and immune system. Sometimes it can can be difficult to get enough vitamin D from food or the sun alone, so this is a supplement that I take and many others may benefit from it as well. I take this one (shorturl.at/uBDE3) because the liposomal delivery makes it absorb well (also, it is tasty!)

2. Calcium: Calcium is important for the health and function of our bones and muscle. It is found in green leafy veggies, dairy products and even some types of seafood.

3. Vitamin B complex: B vitamins are important for our brain function, energy and the formation of red blood cells. B vitamins can be found in meats, poultry, eggs, fish, dairy products and some whole grains.

4. Vitamin C: Vitamin C is helpful for immune function, the health of your skin, collagen production and even wound healing. You can find vitamin C in foods like oranges, grapefruit, strawberries, kiwi fruit, broccoli and brussels sprouts.

5. Omega-3 fatty acids: These are important for heart health and studies have been showing many additional benefits as well! They are found in fatty fish, such as salmon. If you aren't a fan of eating seafood (or just don't eat it regularly) - a supplement of omega-3 fatty acids may be a good way to add this nutrient into your diet.

You should always speak with your healthcare provider before starting any new vitamin/supplement regimen or healthcare journey, as they can help you determine what might be most appropriate for your individual needs. We wish you the happiest and healthiest new year possible here at Forest Park Pharmacy. See you next year!