There are lots of food supplements in the market. But, not everyone can benefit from these. So, who can take food supplements?
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Food Supplements – What are These?
The concept behind food supplements is basically to provide nutrients that might not be consumed in sufficient quantities. Sometimes, food supplements are known as nutritional or dietary supplements. Food supplements can be amino acids, minerals, vitamins, fatty acids, and some substances delivered in a form of liquid, capsules, tablets, and pill.
Supplements are made available in different doses and in various combinations. But, only a particular amount of each nutrient is required for the bodies to function and high amounts aren’t necessarily better. At high dosage, other substances might have adverse effects and might be harmful. This is the reason why food supplements may be sold legally with proper daily dose recommendation.
Who Can Benefit from Food Supplements?
Food supplements aren’t a substitute for a healthy, balanced diet. Diets that include lots of whole grains, vegetables, healthy fats, and adequate protein must provide all your needed nutrients for good health. Majority of European countries agree that the messages aimed at a general public must focus on a food-based dietary guideline. Supplements don’t feature in such guidelines, but there are particular individuals or population groups who might require advice on supplements even when they’re eating proper diet.
In spite of having a role in the health of several individuals, not every food supplement is useful for everyone. As a matter of fact, for others, it isn’t recommended to take particular supplements in certain high doses. Other studies show multivitamins may contribute to an increased risk of too much nutrient intakes and it was suggested that multivitamins must be formulated with greater consideration for intakes of micronutrients from the foods. People must pay attention to reading labels and ensure that food supplements are suitable for them.
For instance, for pregnant women, food supplements that contain vitamin A like fish liver oil can be harmful and might cause birth defects once the recommended dosage is exceeded or exceeded on an extended period of time. According to studies, it was highlighted that smokers must be wary of several supplements in particular high dosage of beta-carotene.
The Bottom Line
Other population groups are recommended to take particular supplements. However, it is important to follow a healthy and balanced diet. It is not also advisable to take different doses that exceed RDAs or Recommended Daily Amounts. If you have doubts, make sure to consult a dietitian or a doctor before you choose any food supplements.
It is not wise to take any food supplements you see in the market. It is important to seek for help from your doctor if you don’t want to end up experiencing some health problems in the future. So, if you want to reap the benefits of food supplements, see to it that you are taking the right one for your health and experience the difference!
