Keywords: supplements, dietary components, nutrient defeciency
Herbs and botanical extracts have long been used to treat different illnesses. In addition to it, they also boost general well-being. Supplements are not treatment, they are nutritive food items.
Supplements are extra sources of dietary components taken in addition to food. A dietary supplement has certain nutritive elements that complement the basic diet and enhances nutrient intake by body. Dietary supplements may include: vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids, and substances such as enzymes, metabolites. Dietary supplements can be taken in many forms such as tablets, capsules, softgels, gelcaps, liquids, or powders.
There is a strong association of nutrient intake and diseases. Adequate amount of vitamins and minerals in diet helps you stay away from many diseases. There are also some diseases that occur due to specific nutrient deficiency. For example, scurvy due to vitamin C deficiency, rickets due to Vitamin D, night blindness due to Vitamin A and so on. In cases where the diet itself is unable to provide the required nutrients, dietary supplements could be of great help.
Women, especially should take care of their nutritional needs. There are many phases in their life that requires additional and specific nutrient supplements. One of it is pregnancy that requires additional nutrients not only for mother, but for the growing baby too. Menopause is another period where the body is compromised in its nutritional needs. It is due to the altered hormonal balance of the body. At this stage women requires vitamin D and calcium supplements to fulfill the nutrient needs.
Recently vitamins are identified to be anti-aging elements. For this reason, it has gained popularity. They act as antioxidants that scavenge the harmful oxygen radicals which are responsible for age-related changes.
Supplements are also used as energy boosters for athletes, but the safety of those compounds have raised eyebrows throughout world. The benefits are far beyond what could be achieved by a balanced diet.
A word of caution
Although natural, but all the supplements are not safe. Give a second thought before you go for any supplements. The products should be approached with a healthy skepticism. It is advisable to consult a physician before you decide for a dietary supplement. Never use a product that is non-proven. Some supplements also have adverse effects when taken along with other drugs or supplements. So be adequately informed about the pros and cons of dietary supplements.
