Food supplements

Food supplements

Many people take food supplements to increase their intake of certain vitamins and minerals but there are both benefits and risks to taking supplements alongside a normal diet.

Firstly, one must remember that vitamin supplements should never be treated as an alternative to a balanced diet. Eating a varied and healthy diet is the most important part of proper nutrition. Taking vitamins and nutritional supplements can be helpful but they cannot take the place of a healthy diet which focuses on whole rather than highly processed foods and includes five to 10 servings of fruits and vegetables every day.

However, for those who have difficulty in eating a balanced diet, are pregnant, or have chronic illnesses, nutritional supplements can be a convenient and important way of maintaining your health.

For most people, multivitamins are perhaps the most common nutritional supplement, but it is important to ensure the brand used also contains essential minerals like selenium and magnesium.

Other common supplements, include fish oils and probiotics. The latter is particularly useful for treating diarrhea and other gastrointestinal illnesses. But as with anything concerned with your health, it is always advisable to consult your doctor first before taking nutritional supplements, particularly if you have an underlying medical condition.

Remember, it’s your life, your future, Your Health First.