Vitamins you need to stay fit and healthy – and the best ways of getting them

Do you need to increase your supplement intake? Getting more vitamin D could slash your risk of dying from cancer according to research, but it’s not the only nutrient vital for good health. We look at eight of the key ways to fight illness through better nutrition – and you can test your knowledge to see if you’re getting enough of each with our quiz… Vitamin D can reduce your cancer risk Three studies presented at this week’s American Society of Clinical Oncology conference have found that taking a Vitamin D supplement can reduce your risk of dying from cancer. Scientists believe it produces an enzyme that ‘detoxifies’ natural acids in the body, preventing damage to internal organs, which in turn reduces cancer risk. Vitamin D is contained in a few foods but most is made when our skin is exposed to sunshine. However, modern lifestyles mean we spend more time indoors and about one in five of us in the UK have insufficient levels. 1) How can you ensure you get enough Vitamin D? a) Spend longer in the sun b) Eat lots of fish c) Take a daily supplement Potassium lowers your blood pressure This essential mineral relaxes the walls of your blood vessels, lowering your blood pressure in the process. Studies show a low potassium intake can cause higher blood pressure and a higher risk of suffering a stroke. On the flip side, people who already have high blood pressure can significantly lower it by increasing their intake of potassium-rich foods. 2) What’s the best way boost potassium levels? a) Eat more salt b) Eat five portions of fruit and veg per day c) Eat more lean protein Vitamin C may prevent Alzheimer’s In a recent review of 50 studies of vitamin C and brain function, […]

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