| Dietary Supplements and a Balanced Diet | ||
| Most health experts believe that dietary supplements are not necessary for a person who eats a balanced diet. A balanced diet is the best way to ensure adequate intake of essential vitamins, minerals, fiber | ||
| and antioxidants. However, if your diet is not balanced, or there is a tremendous amount of stress in your life (which can deplete the body of vitamins), or you are elderly, pregnant, nursing or on a calorie restricted diet, dietary supplements can help supply your body with basic nutrients. Of course, no pill can replace a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables. | ||
| When choosing a dietary supplement, it is very important to
be an informed consumer. The FDA, as a result of federal legislation passed
in 1994, does not regulate dietary supplements. This means that dietary
supplement manufacturers can make claims that are not necessarily backed up
by the type of research required for prescription drugs. Of course, many
supplements can be very beneficial. Nevertheless, consumers should remain
vigilant and avoid products with promises that appear too good to be true.
While some consumers merely risk having false hopes raised, others may face
potentially life-threatening complications. Needless to say, a doctor should
always be consulted prior to any dietary supplement use.
While a balanced diet is the best source of essential nutrients, it is difficult for many people to resist refined, over processed foods and eat adequate amounts of fruits and vegetables. People who overindulge in empty calories should work on incorporating healthy foods into their diet. In the meantime, however, these “junk food junkies” are likely to have nutritional deficiencies and may benefit from dietary supplements. Dietary supplements are very popular with athletes, body builders and dieters. Manufacturers of supplements for athletes and body builders make all sorts of claims about improving physical performance and building up muscle mass. Athletes and body builders should be wary of exaggerated claims and should consult with their doctor about the safety of performance-enhancing and muscle building supplements. Similarly, people who wish to lose weight may turn to metabolism-boosting and appetite suppressant supplements for help. Again, dieters should always consult with their doctor about the safety and efficacy of weight loss supplements. For example, people with cardiovascular disease need to be extremely cautious with ephedrine-containing or similar stimulant products. In conclusion, dietary supplements can be beneficial under the right circumstances. It is important not to overdo dosages of supplements, which can cause toxic side effects, and to consult your doctor with any questions about proper dosage and safety. It is also wise to be an educated consumer and be wary of unsubstantiated or exaggerated claims. |
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