by Janet Higdon

Created on: December 26, 2006   Last Updated: April 18, 2007

Recently I have been doing research on supplements and their affect on our health. One of the important things I discovered is the fact that large drug companies do not want you to find out how helpful supplements can be. I would never recommend that anyone stop taking their prescription medication without first talking with their doctor but you might find your doctor is agreeable to helping you find supplements that would work for you.

When I began my research I was facing a decision on whether or not I was going to start taking medicine for high cholesterol. I knew I needed to get my numbers down but I don't like the thought of taking a drug for the rest of my life. My research led me to many other benefits of supplementation. The first step, of course, is to take a good look at your diet and see what you can do to make your diet healthier. This is an eye-opening experience. Many foods that we eat daily are literally killing us by making us overweight, causing diabetes, and heart disease. Taking charge of our daily diet is probably the most important change we can make.

With my on-going research I am learning what supplements are recommended for maintaining good health. I am also learning what supplements can be taken to improve the damage that has been done by years of abuse. I used to shy away from vitamins because I thought they made me eat more and gain weight. I have now found that the correct combination of supplements not only increases my energy level, but they also do not increase my appetite.

The changes and research I speak of do not take place overnight. There is a lot of information out there and it takes time to study and compare. Also, you cannot make a severe diet change overnight and expect to stick to it. You have to be ready for a lifestyle change and you might find that it is not as difficult as you think. I have discussed with my doctor what I am trying to do and he completely agrees with me. Supplementation cannot take the place of routine medical care but when you find that certain combination that is right for you, it may decrease your trips to your doctor by boosting your immune system.

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