Dietary Supplement Definition
A dietary supplement can be defined as any vitamin or mineral that is ingested in addition to the nutrients already being derived from food and beverages alone. The substances can be organic in nature or man-made to function like their organic counterparts. Such substances organically found in many living things are thought to aid the body's cells, as well as assist metabolism, growth, immunity, organ function, energy levels and weight management. Most importantly, dietary supplements are thought to protect the body from disease and promote overall prime health and well-being. The right balance of nutrients is crucial in determining optimal health. It is also believed that with a proper, well-balanced diet it is necessary to take little or no dietary supplements.
Fat-Soluble Vitamins
Think of fat-soluble vitamins as the ones your body is capable of storing within its fat cells. Vitamins D, E, A and K are classified as fat-soluble. For example, vitamin D can be derived from exposure to the sun and stored in the body. Those who live in cold climates or who experience many sunless days throughout the year are often urged to supplement their diets with vitamin D, as there is little opportunity for continuous sun exposure. Though the body can store this vitamin, it cannot store enough necessary to sustain the body for entire months or seasons.
Water-Soluble Vitamins
Think of water-soluble vitamins as the ones your body is incapable of storing, therefore there may be the need to replenish the body's supply. Vitamins Bs and C, folic acid, biotin, riboflavin, niacin and thiamin are categorized as water-soluble. For example, vitamin C, which assists with a variety of cell funtcions, is considered to increase the strength of the body's immune system. This vitamin is excreted in the urine, so it is vital to replenish the supply of this nutrient daily, whether through diet or dietary supplement.
Other Dietary Supplements
Dietary supplements can come in many forms and can aid with functions beyond the cellular level. Enzymes help with chemical reactions in the body, and weight management supplements work in combination with vitamins and minerals to help with the body's specific weight management needs. For example, digestive enzymes assist with the chemical reactions needed in the body to digest food from the moment you swallow. As some people age, their bodies produce less and less of the necessary enzymes, and this may lead to digestive difficulties, disorders or diseases.
Herbal Supplements
Herbal dietary supplements are increasing in popularity. For every supplement needed or desired, you will find its herbal equivalent. Herbal supplements come in tea form, powders, raw herbs, pills, capsules and even liquid forms. Different cultures have relied on herbal supplements for centuries to accomplish the same goals we search for today--great health and well-being. Herbal supplements may or may not be as effective, and some are not approved by the FDA for use.
Warnings
If your diet is "balanced," it means you are eating daily from all of the food groups. It also means you are eating proportions that are suitable for your metabolism, while getting the right combination of nutrients to support all of your bodily systems and functions. This may also mean you do not need dietary supplements, or just a few of the right ones. To find out what is optimal for you, consult your physician, nutritionist or herbalist. It is vital that you have access to ingredient lists for every supplement you are taking or wish to try. Check labels for nutrient amounts as well, and if the nutrients are plant-derived, animal-derived or synthetic. Be aware of food allergies that may lurk in everything from the inside of the vitamin to the packaging on the capsule. Stay informed and don't risk taking dietary supplements that you don't need.
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