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What are the main dietary supplements?

What are the main dietary supplements?

In combination with a normal diet, food supplements are concentrated sources of nutrients (or other substances) with a nutritional or physiological effect. They can be marketed for example in the form of pills, capsules, tablets, capsules, liquids, etc.

The objective of harmonizing the rules on these products is indeed to protect consumers against potential health risks and to ensure that food supplements do not convey misleading information. With regard to the safety of food supplements, Directive 2002/46/EC of the European Parliament, transposed by the decree of March 20, 2006 governs the manufacture and marketing of food supplements.

Definition of food compliment

Food supplements are defined as food products that complement a conventional diet. Nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, are much more effective when they come from food sources. However, it is sometimes difficult to have a balanced diet on a regular basis, especially if there are special dietary considerations to take into account such as allergies which make certain elements uningestible.

Dietary supplements, also called dietary supplements, can help provide nutrients that are missing from a normal diet. However, they are not intended to replace meals and snacks. It is necessary to contact a doctor or dietitian before taking dietary supplements.

Multivitamins are the most used ingredients in dietary supplements. These include vitamins A, B-complex, C and E, as well as important minerals like zinc and iron. Some dietary supplements are even recommended at certain stages of life. For example, a doctor may recommend a folic acid supplement for pregnant women, or a calcium-vitamin D combination for the elderly. So the elderly who have fragile bones can absorb the nutrients they need especially if they face unbalanced nutrition for various reasons.

Food supplements correcting the diet

In general, both children and adults can benefit from taking a daily multivitamin in the form of dietary supplements. This dietary supplement helps provide a constant source of necessary vitamins and trace elements. According to the Harvard School of Public Health, a daily multivitamin, and perhaps a vitamin D supplement, is a great way to ensure you're getting all the nutrients you need for good health. However, the first consideration is to eat a healthy, diverse and balanced diet. Even the best dietary supplement cannot replace good nutrition. In many Western countries, people tend to eat foods that are high in calories, but lacking in nutrients that are essential for good health.

Generally, you do not need to take dietary supplements if you are in good health and eating a balanced diet. This means a diet that is varied:foods rich in starch (preferably whole grains), fruits and vegetables, dairy products, lean meat, fish... Excessive intake of food supplements can be harmful and cause undesirable side effects .

The other main categories of food supplements

Some types of dietary supplements include antioxidants, vitamins, lipids, minerals, and proteins. Recommended dietary supplements may vary depending on the deficiencies in a person's diet. Supplements are sometimes added to a person's diet due to certain activities in which they participate. For example, athletes often need more carbohydrates in their diets because carbohydrates increase energy.

In Western cultures, diets are generally high in carbohydrates. In the body, chemical processes break down carbohydrates into glucose. If the body does not maintain a healthy level of glucose, diabetes can develop.

What are the main dietary supplements?

Those who want to avoid colds and other flu viruses often turn to certain types of dietary supplements, such as antioxidants. Antioxidants are usually made up of plant extracts. These extracts enter the bloodstream and scavenge free radicals. Free radicals are unstable compounds which, in an effort to become stable, attempt to steal electrons from other molecules. As a result, free radicals can cause disease and cell damage.

Good fats, also known as fatty acids, are also elements that are often lacking in some people:food supplements fill this gap. These fats are found in animal products, nuts, seeds and plants. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eichosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are two examples of beneficial fatty acids. Specifically, DHA and EPA are very important for nerves and brain function.

Minerals are often considered to be among the most important of the different types of dietary supplements. They are mainly made up of inorganic compounds and metals. Healthy bones and teeth are usually attributed to a good amount of minerals in the diet.

Proteins are used to build muscle and tissue. Healthy hair and nails are two physical indicators that a person is getting enough protein from their diet. Before finding dietary supplements that contain protein, you can already find protein in foods such as beef, fish, eggs, dairy products, seeds, nuts and legumes.