College is a time that is full of new experiences—the challenge of being away from home, the stress of managing heavier workloads, and learning to take care of one’s own health.
And of course, the fun of being an independent human being! Especially with current conditions, we want to make sure our children stay happy and healthy while they are away. Here are some suggestions to bolster their health as new college students.
A Good Multivitamin
Never underestimate the power of a good multivitamin! You can get additional immune support in the form of Vitamins A, C, & D, zinc, and selenium. The B vitamins and magnesium provide stress support. And a full complement of other vitamins and minerals address the myriad needs of the body.
College students frequently burn the candle at both ends, eat poor diets, and experience frequent stress. Add to that the need for extra immune support due to current conditions and a multivitamin makes a lot of sense. I consider a good multivitamin the cheapest health insurance you can buy. Three favorites for teens and twenty-somethings are the Active Health Teen, Teen Multivitamin Gummies, or Adult Gold Gummies.
CBD, or cannabidiol
CBD is one in a family of cannabinoids. These substances can affect the endocannabinoid system in the body, which is responsible for homeostasis. Receptors for cannabinoids exist throughout the nervous and immune systems. So CBD and other cannabinoids are often used for stress relief, inflammation, and sleep.
CBD can be sourced from cannabis or hemp. Hemp sources of CBD, by law, must contain less than .3% THC. Therefore, they have no psychoactive effects. CBD is one of our go-to products for stress and sleep and are very safe for use in teens. It is also useful for teens that use marijuana, as CBD can balance the effects of too much THC. Please note that CBD can have negative interactions with medications, so please ask us if it is appropriate for your student.
Three CBD products that we love are Calm Gummies, Sleep Gummies, and CBD Oil THC Free.
Immune Support
The delta variant of Covid is now increasing in the U.S. A new report out of Israel has shown that 36% of new infections are in fully vaccinated people. While those that are vaccinated reportedly have milder cases, no one really wants to get Covid either way. This brings up the need for extra immune support.
Several formulas offer nutrients that address aspects of viral infection and can provide immune support. Some favorites are OrthoMune, Immune Active, and ViraPro. Please make sure you check with us for any drug interactions if you or your child are on medication.
Lutein
Lutein is a carotenoid that is highly concentrated in the macula of the eye. It can attenuate blue light exposure, provide protection from photo-oxidation, and enhance visual performance. Whether your child is a gamer or simply inseparable from their electronic devices, lutein can protect their vision. Lutein has the added advantage of being supportive to brain health. Some options are Lutein/Zeaxanthin or Lutein 20 mg.
Bacopa
This herb has been used for centuries to modulate memory, learning, and concentration. Consequently, it is also known to positively affect the nerves.
According to a study in Neural Plasticity, exploratory studies have shown Bacopa to positively affect multiple markers of ADHD. These markers include restlessness, self-control, learning problems, impulsivity, and psychiatric problems. The positive effects were attributed to better dopamine regulation and the inhibition of an enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine. Dopamine is a frequent target of medications for ADHD. Finally, Acetylcholine is one of the main neurotransmitters that the brain runs on.
Panax Ginseng
Ginseng is the trifecta for college students. Studies show Ginseng to increase mental performance. It is also part of the Adaptogen class of herbs. As a result, it improves one’s reaction to stress, strengthens immunity, and has an overall tonic effect on the body. Ultra Ginseng 500 is a favorite of ours.
Probiotics
A healthy gut is tied to brain health, immune health, and better absorption of all the nutrients that keep your body functioning properly. Poor diet, over-use of antibiotics, exposure to toxins, and certain medications can cause an imbalance in the gut bacteria. A good probiotic helps maintain a healthy gut, which is essential to overall health. A few favorites are Mood+, Once Daily Women’s, and Everyday Go-Pack Probiotics.
Set your college student up for success. Send them to school with the nutrients they need. A multivitamin is the best choice for a college student without any special issues to address.
If you would like more information relative to a particular issue such as immunity, focus, or stress or anxiety, please visit us in the store. If your child’s situation requires more time or attention, you have the option of making an appointment with our nutritionist, Lynn Bednar, at lynn@walshnatural.com.
