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Vitamin D is best known for aiding calcium absorption, but did you know that magnesium and vitamin D work together to regulate calcium movements and contribute to the normal maintenance of bones?
Magnesium may also help to lower blood pressure, while vitamin D helps to reduce the amount of calcium that accumulates in artery walls as well as improving blood pressure control.
Both supplements have beneficial effects on immunity.
Vitamin D and magnesium can be taken together at any time of day. Taking magnesium at night can help to promote relaxation and a good night's sleep (as well as a healthy bowel movement in the morning).
As well as this perfect pair, other complementary products include vitamin K2 (which like vitamin D also contributes to the maintenance of normal bones) and B vitamins, which work together with magnesium to support the nervous system and energy levels.
ChondroMax contains glucosamine hydrochloride (HCl) as well as chondroitin sulphate, two ingredients that provide building blocks for joint cartilage and the synovial fluid that lubricates those joints.
Our premium Opti-Turmeric product is not only better absorbed in the body (it's 185x better absorbed and 7x faster-acting than normal turmeric powder), but also has added vitamin C to support collagen formation, which is vital for healthy cartilage and joints.
These supplements can be taken together, with water, in the morning or evening – whichever is most convenient for you. For optimal absorption, take them with meals.
If your doctor tells you that your cholesterol level is raised, Plant sterols and omega-3 supplements are worth considering. Plant sterols are natural plant substances that block the absorption of cholesterol within the intestines, without being significantly absorbed themselves.
A sterol-rich diet can lower levels of harmful LDL-cholesterol by up to 15%, to significantly reduce the risk of experiencing heart problems. Taking plant sterols can also be more effective than increasing a statin dose, and can help to avoid the associated side effects.
Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil also have beneficial effects on blood fat balance and are even prescribed medically to lower a raised level of triglycerides – a type of fat which is sometimes raised alongside cholesterol.
Plant sterols are best taken with meals to block the absorption of cholesterol. This is also an ideal time to take omega-3 supplements to aid their absorption.
Ubiquinol is used to help reduce statin side effects such as muscle aches, weakness and fatigue.
Dr Sarah Brewer is Healthspan's Medical Director and holds degrees in Natural Sciences, Surgery and Medicine from the University of Cambridge. Having worked as a GP and hospital doctor, Dr Sarah now holds an MSc in Nutritional Medicine from the University of Surrey and specialises in nutrition. She is also an award-winning writer and author.
Find out more at Dr. Sarah Brewer's website, or read more about Healthspan's health experts.