What are dietary supplements?

Dietary supplements include ingredients such as vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids, and enzymes... Dietary supplements come in forms such as tablets, capsules, gel capsules, powders, and liquids.

What are the benefits of dietary supplements?

Some supplements can help ensure that we get vital nutrients. It would also provide the body with nutrients needed for good body functioning and well-being. Other supplements may help reduce the risk of disease. However, supplements should not replace whole foods, which are essential for good body development, so make sure you eat a variety of high-quality foods as well. However, for some people, supplements can be a useful way to obtain nutrients that they may otherwise simply lack.  

Who needs supplements?

You probably don't need supplements if you're a healthy adult who eats a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, low-fat dairy products, lean meats, and fish. However, supplements or fortified foods may be appropriate if:

• You are pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• You are over 50 years old
• You have a poor appetite
• You're eating a diet that doesn't include all the food groups
• Your medical condition is such that you cannot tolerate all foods
• You have had gastrointestinal surgery that affects the digestion of nutrients.

If you're wondering if you need vitamins and minerals, talk to your doctor or get tested "Your Day".

Selection and use of supplements

When looking for the right supplements for you, it is important to:

Check the label.

Product labels may list what the active ingredient or ingredients are, what nutrients are included, the serving size, and the amount of nutrients in each serving.

Avoid megadoses.

Taking more than the recommended daily value may increase the risk of side effects.  

Watch when you take supplements.

Take vitamins, minerals and other supplements at a time when the active substances are best absorbed. In the memo, we present the best time to take supplements.