Benefits And Safety of Dietary Supplements

Benefits And Safety of Dietary Supplements.

A substantial body of research indicates that a nourishing diet is essential for Optimal Health. Such a diet includes balance (adequate amounts of all macronutrients), variety (multiple food sources), and an emphasis on plant foods. In addition to a nourishing diet, supplementation helps fill potential nutrient gaps clue to an inadequate diet and provides higher level of nutrients that may be difficult to get from food.
Dietary supplementation cannot be expected to overcome the negative effects of an unhealthy lifestyle. Rather, dietary supplementation complements a healthy lifestyle and provides additional nutritional insurance that one is doing all they can to achieve Optimal Health.

Research on the effects and mechanisms of action of nutritional interventions, including supplementation, is evolving. As such, the media is constantly reporting both positive and negative studies. Recently, several reviews and meta-analyses (a review of previous research studies in which they are combined and additional conclusions may be derived) have been published about the safety of dietary supplements, in particular, antioxidants, including vitamins. It must be noted that while each publication is unique, it does not necessarily represent new research. Some of these reviews provide a balanced perspective and recommend that one consult with their health care provider to ensure their supplementation regime is appropriate.


Others however, may present a less balanced view or can be easily misconstrued in media coverage. They may even include questionable scientific methodology. The fact that many of these reviews are found in reputable publications such as JAMA and The Cochrane Review further adds to the confusion. The Council for Responsible Nutrition has published several press releases and study analyses that demonstrate the associated methodological challenges. These assessments can be accessed at: http://wwwcrnusa.org/press_prs.html

Even with the best of intentions, it is to always eat a healthy, balanced diet for Optimal Health. Supplementation serves to help bridge any potential nutrient gaps. It is recommended that all adults consume a daily multivitamin and mineral supplement. This recommendation is based on an extensive review of the scientific literature and is meant to ensure that everyone consumes at least the minimum recommended nutrient level to maintain health. Additionally, there is strong evidence to support taking dietary supplements for specific health benefits including:

• Calcium and Vitamin D for Optimal Bone Health
• Folic acid to reduce neural tube defects
• Folic acid and omega 3 fatty acids for heart health
• Lutein and other antioxidant nutritients for eye and general health

CHOOSING THE RIGHT SUPPLEMENT.

Now that you know the importance of taking health supplements, the next step is choosing which to buy. To help you make your way across a confusing sea of brands and choices, these are the four pointers you ought to consider when making your purchase:

1. NOT ALL SUPPLEMENTS ARE CREATED EQUAL.
   Although many multivitamin/multimineral products claim to be 'complete', they are not all the same. Some of the most important differences between supplements arise from variety, quantity and source of ingredients.
   
2. NUMBER Of INGREDIENTS.
   Ingredients need to be present in the product for a reason. A long list of ingredients doesn't make the product better. Vitamins and minerals should be at a level that offers specific health benefits, and thus should be at or nea the RDA (or exceed it based on benefits associated with higher levels). Other ingredients may sound important, but may not offer a clear advantage.
   
3. LEVELS Of INFREDIENTS.
   Ingredients need to be at efficacious doses to provide benefits. Some products contain important ingredients, but the levels are insufficient to provide a distinct benefit.
   
4. SOURCE Of INGREDIENTS.
   Look for minimally processed natural sources and plant concentrates. Plant concentrates provide a range of natural vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients that may be missing from the diet, and may help to bring the diet back into balance through providing variety.

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