Dietary supplements are products that include vitamins, minerals, herbs and amino acids that people use and add to their diets, as mentioned in the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and supported by the U.S. Department of Health and Humanitarian Services. Dietary supplements are not food substitutes but taking them can improve health and well being. These supplements cannot replace prescription medications. The need for supplements varies depending on the patient's developmental stage and condition. Men have different vitamin requirements compared to women and there are several vitamin supplements fit for women.
Folic Acid
According to the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development an organization supported by the National Institutes of Health, folic acid is among the important vitamin supplements for women. This B vitamin helps with red blood cell formation. Naturally, folic acid or folacin can be found on leafy green vegetables, fruits, dried beans, nuts and organ meats. It is recommended for women of child-bearing age to consume at least 400 mg of folic acid. Not getting enough folic acid can lead to deficiency and anemia. Pregnant women or to those who are trying to conceive can also benefit from folic acid. This vitamin reduces the risk of neural tube defects in newborns as well as prepares the body for a healthy pregnancy.
Vitamin B2 or Riboflavin
Riboflavin is one of the best vitamin supplements for women, as described in Medlin Plus, a website supported by the National Institutes of Health. Vitamin B2 or riboflavin is a water soluble B vitamin which plays a vital role in the body's metabolic process; it also helps with energy production, normal cell growth and function. Good dietary sources of vitamin B2 include milk, dairy products, meats, liver, asparagus and broccoli. Riboflavin is observed to improve various medical conditions such as anemia, migraine, neonatal jaundice, anorexia and bulimia. The risk for preeclampsia in pregnant women is significantly reduced with riboflavin intake.
Iron
Based on Medline Plus, iron one of the best vitamin supplements for women. Iron is an essential mineral which is important in oxygen metabolism and transport. Iron is best absorbed when taken with vitamin C or ascorbic acid. Good sources for iron include fish, meat products, beans, leafy green vegetables, cereals and grains. Iron supplementation helps prevent iron deficiency anemia in both menstruating and pregnant women. The recommended dietary allowance for non-pregnant women aging 19 to 50 years old is 18mg per day.
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