How good are vitamin supplements? Are they very beneficial for my health?
It appears that we are constantly bombarded with claims stating that a certain vitamin or mineral, or even herbal supplement can cure a particular ailment. The wide variety of supplements that have flooded the market is overwhelming in itself and it becomes quite difficult for consumers to tell the difference between the products, and identify those which actually help, and those which only make up claims to do so. Advertising and marketing campaigns may appear convincing, even just confusing, but may not be to be believed to some.
The FDA plays an important role in regulating the sale of drugs and supplements, although it can only recall a product, once it is proven to be unsafe. With such huge numbers and varieties of products it becomes difficult to enforce such regulations, and it also becomes the burden of the consumer to identify and make informed choices. Vitamin supplements are just one type of supplement available and they can be a boon to consumers, but when used appropriately.
Vitamin and mineral supplements are dietary supplements that contain micronutrients that are essential for the healthy and efficient operation of our bodies. They serve a specific purpose and provide a variety of unique health benefits, just as their deficiencies can cause health problems. For example, vitamin A is important for bone growth and vision while vitamin E is essential for the immune system and also for DNA repair. Any deficiency of vitamins and minerals can adversely affect the body's ability to not just function normally, but also to protect against diseases and infections, but also for healing.
What must be kept in mind though is that nutritional supplements do not compensate for an unhealthy diet, and they are no substitute for dietary nutrition from fresh fruits and vegetables, or whole grains. If you are on a healthy diet but want to avoid the risk of any kind of deficiency, it may be a good idea to take multivitamin and mineral supplements. Certain groups of people however may actually need to take some specific vitamin or mineral supplements such as pregnant or lactating women, elderly people, or even those with eating disorders and dieters. Vegetarians will also need some vitamin supplements to combat any deficiency in the diet.
Although nutritional supplements and vitamin and mineral supplements in particular may be marketed as being risk-free this is not so. Self-medication with even vitamin supplements is ill-advised as supplements should only be taken on the advice and consultation of your doctor or a nutritionist who is aware of your medical history. An excessive dose or unstable use can cause some unexpected problems. Most people are unaware of this but even high doses of vitamins can be toxic.
