The supplement market is large enough that it’s easy to glance over a product that could really help you or your eyes might never pick it out in the vitamins and supplements section of your local store. To increase your supplement “vocabulary somewhat, direct your attention to the following list and summaries of random supplements, all of which have only the first letter “D” in common. Consider this as doing some due diligence.
Seven “D” Supplements That Deserve Consideration
D-Mannose is a sugar derived from certain fruits. It provides multiple potential benefits to the urinary system. First, d-mannose has been shown to help prevent urinary tract infections. It does so by causing bacteria to stick to it and follow it out of the body by way of urination, rather than leaving bacteria behind to adhere to the walls of the bladder. D-mannose might also help manage the effects of a disease called carbohydrate-deficient glycoprotein syndrome type 1b, by improving liver function and preventing the loss of certain proteins.
Dandelion root is derived from the roots of this flower-looking weed, and is touted for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Studies show that dandelion root can reduce inflammation and improve the efficiency of the liver’s processing of sugar, both of which make this supplement potentially helpful for those with diabetes. It could also help prevent liver disease. Furthermore, the antioxidants in dandelion root could take hypertension down a notch or two, which benefits heart health in both the short and long term.
DHEA is a bodily hormone produced by the adrenal glands and is available as an oral supplement. DHEA supports the production and regulation of both sex hormones – testosterone and estrogen. By supplementing with DHEA, the effects of skin aging (thinning of the skin, sagging) can be reduced. By supporting estrogen production, taking DHEA could also help prevent osteoporosis in women.
DHA, or docosahexaenoic acid, is one of the most beneficial fatty acids for the human body. It can be found in omega fatty acid complex supplements, and as a solo supplement. DHA has many potential benefits, and is most recognized for reducing the risk of heart disease. It does so by reducing negative cholesterol and blood fats. It has also been shown to benefit the eyes, by reducing eye-dryness and potentially preventing eye disease.
Dong quai is an herb traditionally used in Chinese medicine, with a reputation for its potential benefits to women’s health. Research suggests that supplementing with dong quai relieves symptoms of menopause, namely hot flashes. It could mitigate PMS symptoms, and might help regulate menstruation that has been dysregulated.
DMAE, short for dimethylaminoethanol bitartrate, is a compound touted for supporting mood, cognition, and memory. DMAE is produced naturally in the body, and is useful as a supplement. By supporting the production of acetylcholine, DMAE bitartrate supports the regulatory functions of the brain including the sleep cycle, muscle contractions, and others. DMAE could also contribute to reduced risk of cognitive decline later in life, by inhibiting the build-up of beta-amyloids in the brain.
Consider the above supplements, which could each be of help for specific health purposes. Some of these can have interactions with certain medications, so talk to your healthcare provider before adding any of these supplements to your daily nutritional regimen.