Mahaska Health Partnership Shares Benefits of Supplements
MAHASKA COUNTY – We all strive to have a well-balanced diet that provides nutrients our bodies need, but sometimes we don’t get enough just from our food. Mahaska Health Partnership Family Practice Physician Valerie Bonnett, MD, offers tips on choosing supplements for maximum health benefits.
“When it comes to supplements, women need to think bones, babies and bellies,” Dr. Bonnett explained. “Osteoporosis is a major concern for women, so making sure you are taking care of your bone density is a big deal. Healthy waistlines lower your risk of cardiovascular and other chronic diseases and ensuring your body is prepared to carry a child are key considerations when addressing your nutritional needs.”
For women concerned with their nutrient intake, a diet adjustment may provide enough key nutrients, but meeting with a primary care provider can also help determine your nutritional needs. “Try to get in a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes daily,” Dr. Bonnett suggested. “Fiber is another key nutrient to overall health, which can be found in all of these foods, along with brown rice, nuts, popcorn and a baked potato with skin.
“While changing your diet and adding certain foods can help, supplements may also be necessary if you’re not getting enough of these key ingredients,” Dr. Bonnett continued. “Depending on what stage of life you are in and what your nutritional needs are, you may require specific supplements to stay healthy.”
According to Dr. Bonnett, some of the most commonly used supplements for women include iron, calcium, magnesium, vitamin D and folate. “If you’re looking to have children in the near future, it’s always a good idea to discuss with your provider about the benefits of folate. Calcium helps build strong bones to combat osteoporosis and magnesium promotes heart health. All of these are key nutrients in staying healthy for years to come.”
If you’re concerned about your nutritional needs, speaking with an expert can help determine the best approach for you. “The key to making sure you are keeping your health on track is to have regular visits with your primary care provider,” Dr. Bonnett encouraged. “Your diet plays a huge role in your health, and making sure you have the proper nutrition can make all the difference. Just like monitoring cholesterol and blood pressure, your nutrition is equally important; make sure to take yours just as seriously.”
Family Practice Physician Valerie Bonnett, MD, practices full time in the MHP Medical Group. Dr. Bonnett has a strong understanding of the changes that occur in a woman’s body throughout the reproductive years and beyond. She is very knowledgeable in pre-conception counseling, natural hormone replacement therapy and vitamin D deficiencies. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Bonnett, call 641.672.3360.
Mahaska Health Partnership, located in Oskaloosa, is a non-profit health system accredited by the Joint Commission. It is guided by its mission to provide exceptional customer service and health improvement, linking the science of medicine with the humanity of compassionate care. For more information about how mahaska health partnership is making healthcare personal, visit mahaskahealth.org.