These are the latest to arrive on the supplement chain and much is still being learned about them. Suffice it to say, they are the building blocks of the body, derived from proteins, but an ample supply of proteins in the diet does not necessarily protect one from shortages as their construction in the body relies on complex metabolic steps which may or may not be completed in a state of illness.

Thus a general amino acid supplement is not a bad thing to take on a daily basis. Linda Lazarides advises taking L-Lysine for angina but points out that as much as 6,000mg a day may have to be taken. Once again we are confronted with the possibility of imbalance if one is taken in great excess to another, so an overall supplement of aminos, plus extra Lysine may be advised.    Some aminos need to be taken on an empty stomach to be effective – again advice is needed.

Lazarides also advises taking EFAs, but warns that once again those on blood thinners will have to proceed with caution, taking the lower dose recommended on the packaging until advised.

Here are some points worth noting:

Take no vitamins or minerals with tea, coffee or alcohol – their effect will block absorption

Take zinc separately from other minerals, if possible Take organic forms of minerals, not inorganic, chelated if possible

Order regular fresh supplies of supplements (especially oil-based) rather than stockpiling large sizes which may ‘go off

Never take supplements with iced water or drink – this impairs their absorption

Consider taking a digestive aid, such as Pineapple Bromelaine or (especially if you are acid deficient, which people over forty may be) Betaine Hydrochloride

John Stirling of Biocare UK Ltd, who specializes in enzyme preparations (the supplementation of the future), believes that unless good food and nutrients are digested there is no point in taking them. One of the major problems with degenerative diseases is that absorption is impaired and this deficiency must be helped until the system reaches a better level of homeostasis.

In addition, it is wise to take a good acidophilus supplement to aid and balance digestively helpful gut flora, as with increasing age intestinal flora becomes compromised by antibiotics taken in the past, and which are still being ingested unknowingly in food and water supplies, and by chemicals in packaged and preserved foods and household cleaning agents, etc, and by chemicals in fuels and in the atmosphere.

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Cardio & Blood/ Cholesterol

Whether you like to walk, jog, cycle, do aerobics or use various gym equipment, taking a few simple precautions can keep you out of pain and problems:

Always warm up and cool down.

Wear properly fitted, well-cushioned shoes with good heel and arch support. Don’t go for bargains. Find a store that specialises in sporting shoes and try on a number of brands and types until you find a pair that fits just right. Tell the salesperson what you’re planning to do, so he or she can custom fit the shoes to your needs.

Avoid walking or running along congested highways where you’ll be breathing a lot of smoggy air. On a really smoggy day in major cities, exercising can bring as many toxins into your lungs as smoking cigarettes.

Avoid very hot and very cold days. If you live in an area with temperature extremes, you may well want to invest in an indoor treadmill or exercycle.

Watch for early warning signs of injury. If your ankles or knees start feeling achy, it’s best to stop for the day.

When using unfamiliar equipment, ask for directions. Instructors in any gym, health club or YMCA will be happy to give you some instruction on safe and proper use.

If you’ve been off for a while owing, say, to a cold or the flu, start back slowly. Remember it will take three days for every day off to get back into stride.

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Cardio & Blood/ Cholesterol