Supplements

The uses of nutritional supplements have long been regarded as the solution to nutritional deficiencies and to prevent further deficiencies in vegetarians and those suffering from disease or injury.

Supplements are also necessary for those who cannot take food orally or for those whose daily diets, like those of vegetarians do not provide all the nutrients needed by the body. Smokers, pregnant women, those who are malnourished, children and adolescents are also often advised to add natural supplementation in their diets. People with busy lifestyles who may find it difficult to sit down and eat a nutritionally-balanced diet will also benefit from nutritional supplements.    

According to the Dietary Supplement and Health Education Act of 1994, a dietary supplement can be classified as such only if it contains vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and a herb or another botanical. A dietary supplement is often available in pill or capsule form, tablet, liquid and even powder form. Body building drinks are one of the main sources of natural dietary supplements for body builders and athletes. 

Importance of Nutritional Supplementation

The importance of adequate levels of nutrition cannot be overemphasized. There are a lot of conditions that arise out of nutrient deficiencies, from beri-beri and scabies to an increased risk for infections.  Adequate levels of vitamins, minerals and amino acids ensure the proper functioning of the body and adequate protection from diseases.

Kinds of Natural Supplementation

Natural supplementation is classified according to different categories. These include vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, amino acids, bee products and herbs. Vitamins may be available in separate vitamins pills or as multivitamins, a combination of vitamins in one capsule form. Common vitamins available in tablet or syrup forms include Vitamin C, D, or the B-complex vitamins. Mineral supplements act as catalysts for the processes that facilitate the use of vitamins in the body. Common minerals include calcium, magnesium, potassium, copper, iodine, iron and manganese.

Antioxidants play a great role in maintaining cellular integrity by protecting the cells from damage brought by free radicals. Common antioxidants include Vitamin A, C and E, selenium and carotenoids. Antioxidants have been shown by several studies to play an important role in cancer prevention.

Bee pollen is another substance used to supplement diets. It has been shown to have promising effects on certain cancers and allergies. Its use as an important component of cosmetic preparations to enhance appearance and promote a youthful looking skin has been touted as the new sensation in the cosmetic industry.

Herbs may also be classified as dietary supplements although their primary purpose is to cleanse the body by acting as diuretics, laxatives and blood purifiers. These are available in pill, capsule, power, tea or raw forms.