There is a lot of controversy about the largely unregulated world of nutritional supplements. Many people swear by one or more of their favorites. Others think that they are just a waste of money. People often ask me which ones I take to look and feel younger and healthier. I don’t indulge in too many, but here’s what I take:

1. A multi-vitamin. I take a gummy ‘men’s’ vitamin daily. I believe that I have a healthy diet. I also believe that the best way to get vitamins and minerals is through the food that you eat, not from a supplement. But, if there are any gaps in my natural intake, I try to cover my bases with a broad multi-vitamin.
2. A calcium supplement. I take a 500 mg calcium gummy daily. I probably don’t consume enough dairy or other calcium rich food sources to meet the recommended 1000 mg RDA. My main concern is potential bone loss as I age, which is a bigger problem for women. I take this to be on the safe side.
3. A fiber supplement. I take one heaping teaspoon of psyllium husk daily to supplement my fiber intake. The bottle claims that it helps you feel less hungry between meals, helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels, helps lower cholesterol, and promotes digestive health.

I have started reading about glucomannan, and I’m considering adding it to my daily regimen. Glucomannan is a water-soluble dietary fiber extracted from the roots of konjac, also known as elephant yam. When taken before meals, glucomannan may lead to modest weight loss in overweight individuals, mainly by creating a feeling of fullness and reducing calorie intake. It may be worth a try.

Do you have a favorite supplement? What is working for you? Let me know in the comments.