Bronson Laboratories has supported healthy living through nutrition since 1960. Our company and the products that built it were based on the needs of every day consumers like you. While supplementation can help in a world where the nutritional value of food is not what it used to be, it will always be most important to build a foundation with a focus on a healthy diet that is right for your lifestyle.
We are all different: from cross-fitters to weekend warriors, vegetarians to paleo, grandparents to grandchildren; and because we all have different diets, lifestyles, and health concerns, we all have different dietary and supplemental needs. Healthy living starts with nutrition and nutrition starts with food. By definition, nutrients are substances that provide nourishment essential for growth and the maintenance of life -- which include vitamins, minerals, EFAs and amino acids. No matter what dietary restrictions, or lack there of, you are following -- be sure to get the essential nutrients your body needs.
Carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, the primary source of fuel for your body and brain. They also help stabilize blood sugar levels and preserve muscle mass by preventing the breakdown of proteins for energy. While we may think of things like bread and pasta as the main sources of carbohydrates, fruits and vegetables also can fulfill the body’s glucose needs, plus they are packed with important vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
Proteins are made up of building blocks called amino acids and contribute to the formation of muscle, among other important body functions. While there are 20 types of amino acids, there are 9 that are essential to consume from food or supplement sources as your body cannot produce them on it's own -- these include; Histidine, Isoleucine, Leucine, Lysine, Methionine, Phenylalanine, Threonine, Tryptophan and Valine. No matter what your diet is like, there are quality sources of amino acids for everyone, such as meat, eggs, dairy, nuts and beans.
While some types of fats are better than others, it is essential for energy, organ function and can help the absorption of vitamins in the body. Healthy fats can be found in nuts, avocados, salmon, olive oil, flax seed and nut butters.
Did you know, water comprises up to 75% of your body mass? It is so essential, that even just days without it can be harmful to the body. Drinking water is the best way to make sure you are getting enough, but you can also eat fruits and vegetables that tend to have high water content to keep you hydrated.
Vitamins are essential nutrients for maintaining optimal health. While some are required in bigger doses than others, Vitamins A, B, C, D, E and K are some of the most essential. A balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables will help you meet your needs, and a multivitamin may be useful to help fill in the gaps.
Minerals can help keep bones and muscles working properly and are also important for making enzymes and hormones. Macrominerals are needed in larger amounts in the body and include calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, potassium, chloride and sulfur. Trace minerals, while needed in small amounts, are still essential to body function and include; iron, manganese, copper, iodine, zinc, cobalt, fluoride and selenium.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids contain EPA and DHA and are beneficial for heart health and can optimize brain health. Cold water fish like krill, cod and salmon are great sources of omegas.
Vitamin D is essential for the absorption of calcium, promotes bone health, can strengthen the immune system and support muscle function. Vitamin D can be obtained from sunlight, fish oils, eggs, mushrooms and other food sources. It may be important to consider a Vitamin D supplement during the winter when sunlight is limited, or if your diet is restrictive.