Exploring Supplements for Mental and Physical Well-Being at University
A university student seeks advice on a range of supplements, including Vitamin D, Omega-3, and Vitamin B Complex, to enhance mental focus and overall health amidst academic stress. The discussion also touches on the potential benefits of multivitamins and future supplement considerations.
Hello, I recently stumbled upon supplements for this past one or two weeks ago. I want to improve my overall mental and physical health since I have been struggling academically at university for the past 3 years. Feeling depressed, stressed, and anxious (Also, during lectures, I lack focus and am a bit of a slow learner myself).
Would these supplements help me? What are your thoughts, and would you change something about it?
The supplements I have ordered (Not yet here):
Vitamin D 5000 IU
Magnesium Glycinate
Ginkgo
Ginseng
Omega 3
Vitamin B Complex
I forgot to order Vitamin k2 for Vitamin D3 (Planning to buy soon as possible)
Creatine (Planning to buy soon, maybe next year when I start working out again)
What are your thoughts about the Life Extension Two Per Day Multivitamins? Are they worth it? I saw the ingredients, and they usually have good dosages.
If you have recommendations for other supplements. Feel free to share, too. I would gladly appreciate it and look into it. If you also want details of the brands I bought, I would gladly share them so that you can check if they are a reputable brand.
Here's a look at the supplements you've chosen and their potential benefits for mental and physical health:
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Vitamin D: This vitamin plays various critical roles, including supporting bone health, immune function, and possibly influencing mood and cognitive function1. Low levels of Vitamin D have been associated with depression and cognitive impairment.
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Magnesium Glycinate: Magnesium is essential for nerve and muscle function, blood sugar control, and blood pressure regulation2. It may aid in reducing anxiety and depression by supporting neurotransmitter function3.
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Ginkgo: Often used to enhance cognitive function, Ginkgo biloba may aid in improving memory and focus due to its role in increasing blood flow to the brain4.
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Ginseng: Though specific information on its benefits wasn't retrieved, ginseng is generally considered to aid in boosting energy levels, enhancing cognitive function, and reducing stress.
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Omega-3: Omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for brain health and have been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. They are beneficial for supporting heart health and potentially improving cognitive function.
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Vitamin B Complex: These vitamins are pivotal for maintaining energy levels, brain function, and cell metabolism5. They can help reduce fatigue and improve mental clarity.
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Vitamin K2: It's beneficial to take Vitamin K2 with Vitamin D, as K2 helps to direct calcium to the bones and teeth, which vitamin D helps absorb, thereby improving bone health6.
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Creatine: While it's well-known for enhancing athletic performance, creatine also has cognitive benefits. It may improve short-term memory and reasoning skills, possibly offering support for brain health during stressful periods.
Regarding the Life Extension Two Per Day Multivitamins, these are generally well-regarded for providing essential nutrients at higher potencies than standard multivitamins. The product could be worth it if you are looking for a comprehensive supplement to fill any dietary gaps, assuming it contains most of the vitamins and minerals you're interested in at beneficial dosages.
Given the supplements you've chosen, it looks like a well-rounded approach focused on boosting both physical and mental health. If you are considering other recommendations, perhaps exploring adaptogens like Rhodiola Rosea for stress management or L-theanine for focus could be beneficial based on your needs. However, always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you are dealing with symptoms like depression, anxiety, and cognitive difficulties.
Footnotes
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Vitamin D: Fact sheet for health professionals. Office of Dietary Supplements. ↩
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Magnesium glycinate: Is this supplement helpful for you? - Mayo Clinic Press ↩
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Rapid recovery from major depression using magnesium treatment - PubMed ↩
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Efficacy and adverse effects of ginkgo biloba for cognitive impairment and dementia - PubMed ↩
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A functional evaluation of anti-fatigue and exercise performance improvement following vitamin B complex supplementation in healthy humans, a randomized double-blind trial - PubMed ↩
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The combination effect of vitamin K and vitamin D on human bone quality: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials - PubMed ↩
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