Isn’t it great when you get two wellbeing boosts for the price of one? These dual-purpose supplements are ideal for your body and brain and offer a host of benefits, says pharmacist Shabir Daya.
Looking for smart little lifestyle changes that offer big results? Start by having a look at your daily supplement regime and see which key vitamins can give you more bang for your buck.
ALSO SEE: The best anti-ageing health supplements
See our list of ultimate supplements for the brain and body below.
Saffron
“Research shows that as a supplement, saffron may help with weight loss by working on the receptors in the brain responsible for compulsive eating.”
The happy hit
It also works like an antidepressant, helping to increase serotonin and lift your mood.
Try Felix Advanced High Potency Pure Saffron Extract, R495
Magnolia Phellodendron Complex
“This relaxes muscles and nerves and reduces levels of the stress hormone, cortisol. Increased cortisol can lead to carbohydrate cravings, which can result in weight gain.”
The happy hit
It lifts low mood and helps soothe anxiety.
ALSO SEE: Top 5 Natural Remedies to Beat Colds and Flu
Green Tea
“As well as mild appetite-curbing properties, green tea also contains compounds that induce the body to burn fats into energy.”
The happy hit
It contains L-Theanine to relax and sharpen the mind. Take a supplement or try a few cups of green tea a day.
Try Viridian Organic Green Tea Leaf, R142
Or sip on Mantra Organic Green Tea Bags, R99,95 for 25
ALSO SEE: How to make the best cup of green tea
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
“These work to block the uptake of bad fats by the body by bonding with, and then removing them.”
The happy hit
Essential fats are also excellent for their mood-elevating properties,” says Shabir.
Try DS Omega-3, R179 for 60 capsules
Nourish your body, de-stress your mind…
…with this gem of a therapeutic bath by expert Emma Thompson
1 Mix together 4tsp granulated sugar, 3tsp sweet almond oil and 2 drops cardamom essential oil. Sweep onto skin from toes to neck.
2 Slide into a warm bath into which you have melted 1tsp pure shea butter Soak for at last 10 minutes. Try Nature Direct Shea Butter, R270 for 1kg from Faithful-To-Nature
3 Pat yourself dry and while your skin is still warm, apply a shea butter body lotion to help seal in the moisture.
Wellbeing tip: Cardamom, because it’s anti-cellulite, helps ease bloating, reduces stress and helps with menopause.
ALSO SEE: Can mindfulness enrich your life?
