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What are nutritional supplements?

Nowadays, interest is growing towards nutritional supplements more and more. From vitamin pills to protein shakes and omega-3 capsules: supplements are indispensable in the shelves of drug stores, supermarkets and online stores. But are these products really needed for good health? Or is it possible to get all the necessary nutrients from a balanced diet? In this article we investigate the role of nutritional supplements, its advantages and disadvantages, and in which situations they are or not necessary.

Nutritional supplements are products that are intended as a supplement to normal food. They contain concentrated quantities of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, fatty acids or other substances that could have a positive effect. Supplements are available in various shapes, such as pills, capsules, powders or drinks.

Why people use dietary supplements

There are various reasons why people choose to use supplements. Some do this on the advice of a doctor, for example in the event of a deficit deficiency of a certain vitamin or mineral. Others use them preventively, hoping to strengthen their immune system or increase their energy level. Athletes often use protein supplements to stimulate muscle building, while the elderly more often take calcium and vitamin D to support bone health.

When are supplements needed?

  1. Deficits due to medical conditions. With certain conditions or treatments, the body may have difficulty absorbing nutrients. For example, people with celiac disease, Crohn's disease or certain forms of cancer can benefit from supplements.
  2. Pregnancy. Pregnant women are often advised to supplement folic acid and iron. Folic acid reduces the risk of neural tube defects in the baby, while iron is needed for increased blood production.
  3. Old age. As people get older, the absorption of some nutrients decreases. Especially vitamin B12, Vitamin D And calcium are important for the elderly to prevent deficits, bone loss and anemia.
  4. Veganism and vegetarianism People who do not consume animal products run the risk of vitamin B12, iron, zinc and omega-3 fatty acids. Supplements can be a valuable addition to this group.
  5. Limited sun exposure. Vitamin D is largely produced in the skin under the influence of sunlight. People who come out of little or live in areas with little sunlight can benefit from a vitamin D supplement.

The operation of different supplements

  1. Vitamin D Helps with the absorption of calcium and is essential for bone health. A deficiency can lead to fatigue, muscle weakness and bone problems.
  2. Vitamin B12 Plays a crucial role in the production of red blood cells and the functioning of the nervous system.
  3. Iron Is important for oxygen transport in the blood. A deficiency leads to anemia, which causes fatigue and shortness of breath.
  4. Omega-3 fatty acids contribute to a healthy heart and brain function. They mainly occur in fatty fish and are more difficult to get through a vegetable diet.
  5. Protein supplements are mainly used by athletes and the elderly to maintain or build muscle mass.

Risks and disadvantages of supplements

Although supplements can be useful, they are not without risk. Overdose of certain vitamins and minerals can be harmful. An excess of vitamin A, for example, can lead to liver problems and in extreme cases even to poisoning. Supplements can also have interactions with medicines, which strengthens or weaken the effect of certain medicines.

In addition, supplements can give a false sense of safety. People can think that they are healthy while they do not pay enough attention to a balanced diet. Supplements are not a replacement for healthy food.

Examples of excessive use

A well -known example is the excessive use of Vitamin C. Many people take high doses in the hope of preventing a cold, but the body can only absorb a limited amount. The surplus is excreted through the urine, which is in fact a waste of money.

Another example concerns athletes who take large amounts of protein supplements. Although proteins are important for muscle building, too much load for the kidneys can be and lead to weight gain if calorie intake becomes too high.

Scientific evidence

Scientific studies show that supplements are effective in specific cases. For example, the usefulness of folic acid is well substantiated in pregnant women. Vitamin D supplementation in the elderly also has demonstrably positive effects on bone health.

At the same time, there is little evidence that supplements have a positive effect in healthy people with a balanced diet. Most vitamins and minerals are better absorbed from food than from pills. Nutrition also contains fiber, antioxidants and other bioactive substances that contribute to the absorption and operation of nutrients.

The role of nutrition

A varied diet that is rich in vegetables, fruit, whole -grain products, nuts, seeds, dairy, fish and lean meat in principle provides the body with all the nutrients required. The Nutrition Center in the Netherlands therefore states that in most cases supplements are not necessary, provided that people eat healthy and varied. For this we have different at Prep the Food 1 week and 2-week packages made. 

Yet there are exceptions. People with a busy lifestyle, eating disorders, allergies or certain philosophies of life may have difficulty meet their needs through nutrition. Supplements can play an important role for these groups.

Advice and guidance

Before they start taking supplements, it is wise to seek professional advice. A doctor or dietician can assess whether there is a shortage, and if so, which supplement and which dosage is needed.

Moreover, it is important to choose supplements that meet quality standards. There are major differences in composition and purity between brands. It is advisable to choose products that are checked for quality and safety.

Conclusion

Nutritional supplements can be a valuable addition to people with specific needs or shortages. In cases of pregnancy, old age, veganism or medical conditions, they can even be essential for good health. However, for most healthy people who eat varied, supplements are not necessary. A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, sufficient exercise and sleep, remains the best way to provide the body with all the necessary nutrients.

Supplements are no panacea. They can support, but do not replace healthy eating and living habits. Well informing well is important before you decide to take supplements.

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