By definition, a supplement is an element attached to something greater, and is added to make up for a deficiency or to enhance the whole. But, in the case of nutritional supplements, these products can be considered more than complementary. Instead many are a necessary part of a healthy and balanced diet. Hence they might be called nutrition essentials, whether they come from food or in pill form.
Everyone requires a certain amount of vital biochemicals, with the proportion varying within a narrow range. Yet, each individual is unique and therefore requires a particular amount of nutrient that differs slightly from others. Be it an individual genetic or physiological condition, certain lifestyle choices, or simply a dietary deficiency, there are numerous reasons why many of us can benefit from nutritional supplements.
B-complex vitamins, for example, are essential for everyone. The proper amount will vary depending on weight and unique physiology. For most, an all-purpose daily vitamin pill is enough to supply any needed amount that doesn’t come from a balanced diet. The body has a well-tuned ability, in most cases, to absorb what’s needed and slough off the rest.
Taking Vitamin C once helped eliminate the dangers of scurvy and rickets. That’s rarely a problem in developed countries today, but there is strong evidence that it helps boost the immune system, leading to fewer colds and infections. Past claims overstated the facts, but Vitamin C remains a needed element. Vitamin C is eliminated in the urine when consumed in excess amounts, so what is excess one day may not be enough the next, requiring tomorrow’s deficit to be made up through diet or supplements.
Many people as they get older consume much less calcium. To an extent that’s normal, since young adults don’t require anywhere near the amounts that they did when they were infants or young children. But the curve picks up again later in life, as bones become less able to manufacture the appropriate amount. For many who are lactose intolerant, or simply don’t care for the taste of cow’s or goat’s milk, getting calcium in the form of a supplement is a great way to get that essential mineral.
Omega-3 are essential fatty acids that help reduce inflammation and prevent heart disease, to name only two benefits. But one of the main dietary sources – fish – isn’t to everyone’s taste. It’s also unfortunately the case that sometimes the local fish supply is temporarily unsafe. In those circumstances a nutritional supplement is an excellent alternative.
There are dozens of supplements that can help balance out hormonal deficiencies that many women and some men suffer from. Soy is one that can smooth out imbalances and help reduce PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) or menopause symptoms. Others are helpful for thyroid imbalances.
Cortisol is another example. Naturally produced by most people in the proper amount, some people have a deficiency due to a gland weakened by disease, age or genetic condition. Those low in cortisol can suffer from fatigue, aching joints and other symptoms. Taken in the proper amounts, it can make a huge positive lifestyle difference.
Each person should check with thier doctor before taking anything more than an average daily vitamin or one of the more common supplements. It is also smart to check with a pharmacist and know what the side effects are of any nutritional supplement you’re considering. Ginko, for example, can lead to excessive bleeding in some individuals. You need to know what is safe for you first, and once you have the results, taking nutritional supplements can make the difference between mediocre and optimal health.
Technorati Tags: nutritional supplements, balanced diet
Related posts:
