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Dietary supplements: helpers or “pacifiers”?

Every person strives to be healthy and live longer. In recent years, these topics have been increasingly associated with the concept of dietary supplements. But what are they and are they really so vital? Let's find out.

Vitamins or supplements: what’s the difference?

Vitamins are organic substances necessary for our body to function properly. We get them mainly from food but sometimes it’s not enough. Supplements are concentrated versions of these vitamins, minerals and other useful substances: amino acids, fatty acids, and plant extracts. Supplements are not medicine, but they often help the body to cope with illness or recover after it, replenishing the deficiency of useful substances.

Do you need supplements?

There is no clear answer. The perfect option is to get all you need from a balanced diet. However in the rhythm of modern life, when the stores are loaded with industrial unhealthy products and the ecology leaves much to be desired, it’s virtually impossible.

Consider taking dietary supplements if:

You are vegan or vegetarian. A plant-based diet may not always provide all the nutrients, for example, enough vitamin B12, iron and omega-3.

You are pregnant or breastfeeding. During this period the need for vitamins and minerals grows.

You actively do sports. Physical activity increases the body’s useful substance consumption.

You have an illness or are recovering from it. Supplements may help you restore strength and your immune system faster.

You want to lose weight. Supplements will provide all the needed substances and microelements for your health and beauty and all this without extra calories.

Safety first: how not to make a mistake when choosing supplements?

Safety and effectiveness is the key matter for many.

Here are some rules that may help you to make the right choice:

  • Talk to your doctor. Only specialists can determine what vitamins and minerals you lack, and select the appropriate supplements.
  • Choose only trustworthy manufacturers. Pay attention to the composition, the presence of quality certificates, and the reputation of the brand.
  • Observe the dosage. Do not exceed the recommended dose indicated on the package. An excess of vitamins and minerals is as harmful as their deficiency.

Dietary supplements and unbalanced nutrition: can one compensate for the other?

It is important to remember that dietary supplements are just an addition to a healthy diet, not a replacement for it. Not even the most modern supplements can compensate for the damage your body suffers from fast food, excess sugar and harmful fats.

To summarize: dietary supplements can become your allies on the road to health, but only if you choose and use them correctly. Do not self-medicate, consult with a specialist and choose quality products from trusted manufacturers.

Be healthy!