Why take supplements?

Nothing should take the place of a healthy, balanced diet, but it is beneficial to use dietary supplements as it is difficult to get all the vitamins, minerals and other nutrients our bodies need from food alone.
Dietary supplements are products that contain vitamins, minerals, botanical or herbal ingredients, amino acids (the building blocks of proteins) and enzymes (complex proteins that speed up biochemical reactions). Supplements come in various forms, including tablets, capsules, powders and liquids.

It is important to use supplements responsibly in order to get the maximum benefit and to remember that supplements are not medicines and cannot cure disease. Pregnant women should supplement with folate on a daily basis to safeguard against birth defects. Folate is a B vitamin needed to produce genetic material, including DNA, and can be found in prenatal vitamins. Added vitamins and minerals are also beneficial to the elderly, especially calcium and Vitamin D, which aid bone strength.

People with food allergies and restricted diets can also benefit from dietary supplements if they are prone to digestive difficulties which may prevent their body from absorbing nutrients properly. Although supplements are available without prescription, there are important reasons you should consult your healthcare provider before starting to take any supplement. Most important to consider is that the supplement could clash with a medication you are taking. Always tell your doctor too which supplements you are on before being treated for a health condition. Some side effects from dietary supplements include upset stomach, bloating, gas and heartburn. Overall, if you take supplements as directed and consult your doctor, the risks are low in comparison to the benefits.

Research a supplement before taking it so that you understand its role in promoting health and how it will benefit you. Speak to your doctor if you experience an issue with a supplement. People take supplements for various reasons apart from maintaining general health, such as supporting their mental health and providing immune system support. Find zinc, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Omega 3, Magnesium, Probiotics and Collagen among the high quality supplements in our Local Health range.