An optimum dietary intake of nutrients is required to meet the challenges that women experience, both from the physical and the emotional perspectives.

In physical terms, the increased need may be considered as obtaining those nutrients that support physical wellbeing and energy production. Maintenance of good health is not merely the absence of poor or ill health. This is a time when positive nutritional foundations are required to cope adequately with daily life, building up physical resources for work, child care, pregnancy and career needs, and also preparing for “middle age”.

This is a phase when following the principles of ‘living well’ really do repay dividends for a healthy life. Key dietary requirements include ensuring that adequate water is taken daily, and this is generally accepted to be between 2-3 litres a day.

Water contributes almost 60% of the total weight of the human body. The human body can lose over two litres of water each day through the normal function of the kidneys and perspiration.

Water is known to help reduce tiredness and fatigue. Increased water intake helps the process of weight loss in those who want or need to reduce weight. Two or three litres a day is the recommendation.

The daily requirement for water increases during pregnancy – it has been suggested that morning sickness occurs if inadequate water is consumed.

It is estimated that only one third of women get their daily needs of folic acid.

Supplements

The following supplements that are known to be helpful are divided into three groups.

Section 1 Supplements are considered ‘first choice’.

Section 2 Supplements are both complementary and synergistic with the ‘first choice’ supplements.

Section 3 Supplements are considered beneficial for preliminary digestive system cleansing. While optional, they can offer an additional positive process to improving health and wellbeing.