For most people, it is quite common to take a supplement or two with breakfast. In the UK, millions of citizens, approximately 38% of the population, spend over £385 million a year to stay healthy and keep illnesses away by taking vitamins and dietary supplements. But is it worth it?
Nutritionist Libby Limon explains, "The body struggles to absorb and use some supplements effectively." She also adds, "So they should only be taken to redress an imbalance - for example, if you are depleted in certain nutrients because you aren't getting them through your diet, or you have a higher need due to exercise, stress or illness."
"Before you consider taking supplements, ask yourself a number of questions," says nutritional therapist Jacqueline Newson. Those questions include the following:
- What are the potential benefits of taking this?
- What is the proper dose for me?
- Are there any safety risks with this product?
- When and how should I take this product and for how long?
Too much of something isn't always good. Unknown to many, some vitamins may have negative effects on several medications. One example is vitamin K. Newson warns, "Vitamin K can reduce the ability of blood thinners such as warfarin to prevent blood from clotting."
Before taking supplements, it is always best to speak with your physician, especially if you are taking special medicines.
Another factor to take into consideration is your diet.
"It is really important that we eat a varied mix of complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, adequate protein, a little dairy food and plenty of fruit and vegetables," explains Newson. "Supplements should be used to enhance a healthy diet, not as a substitute for actual food. Real whole food provides thousands of nutrients that work together to promote good health and this cannot be duplicated with a cocktail of supplements," she adds.
Most nutritionists agree that the best way to get your much-needed nutrients is by eating them. That way, you're less likely to get too much of a certain vitamin or nutrient. However, if you are truly deficient in something and your doctor advises you to do so, a supplement may help you out.
