These days, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is more accessible thanks to the many products available on the market. Nutritional supplements play a significant role in this and come in various forms like tablets, powders, gummies, and drinks, all containing essential vitamins your body needs to function well. However, it’s important to choose supplements that suit your dietary needs by checking their ingredients.
Here’s what you need to know about nutritional supplements:
Supplements vary in effectiveness and provide your body with vitamins and minerals that might be missing from your diet. They should complement, not replace, a healthy diet.
Before taking any supplements, understand how they work and why you need them. For example, vitamin D aids in building strong bones and preventing bone loss, folic acid can reduce the risk of birth defects, and omega-3 is beneficial for heart health. A combination of vitamins E, C, zinc, and copper can help with vision loss.
Supplements have active ingredients offering various health benefits but can also cause side effects, especially if misused or if you’re trying a new product. Some supplements might interact negatively with medications, so it’s important to consult your doctor and discuss any supplements you plan to take.
Your nutritionist can recommend the right supplements and dosages. Be aware that some supplements shouldn’t be taken before surgery as they can affect anesthesia. Knowing the safety and risks helps you avoid issues when taking supplements.
Given the market is flooded with supplements, it’s easy to end up with counterfeit products. Always buy from accredited manufacturers who follow strict practices and comply with FDA regulations, ensuring the identity, purity, and correct nutrient blend. This reduces contamination risks and ensures you’re getting a high-quality product. Opt for supplements tested by independent parties and well-regarded brands.
Check labels for nutritional information, active ingredients, warnings, dosages, and expiration dates. Avoid supplements close to their expiry.
Dietary supplements come in different forms like capsules, powders, or liquids. Choose what works best for you and consider their absorption rates. Some are absorbed more easily by the body, while others, like fat-soluble vitamins A, K, D, and E, need to be taken with food.
In summary, dietary supplements can fill nutritional gaps and support a healthier body. Be sure to choose high-quality products from reputable stores.