Who needs food supplements?

Who needs food supplements for health?
Even the most conscientious consumers find it difficult to get all the nutrients they need from food alone. While dietary improvement is a desirable goal, changing dietary patterns is extremely difficult.
On the assumption that it is better for people to obtain recommended amounts of vitamins and minerals than to limp along with low intakes, a multivitamin with minerals which can be purchased for less than a dime a day is an inexpensive and effective way to fill a number of known nutrient gaps. Nutrition experts at the Harvard School of Public Health have created an online version of a food pyramid with a notation recommending a “daily multivitamin plus extra vitamin D (for most people).”

What are food supplements and who needs them?

  Recognizing the special nutritional needs of senior citizens, researchers at Tufts University designed a food guide pyramid for the elderly, which features a flag at the top as a reminder that supplements of calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B-12 may be needed for optimal health. The American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (formerly the American Dietetic Association) has a policy statement emphasizing the importance of good food choices but also recognizing that supplements can help some people meet their nutritional needs.

Food supplements can be beneficial for a wide range of people


Food supplements can be beneficial for a wide range of people who may have difficulty obtaining all the nutrients they need from their diets alone. While it's ideal to obtain nutrients from whole foods, certain individuals may have difficulty meeting their nutritional needs due to a variety of factors. Here are some groups of people who may benefit from taking food supplements:

  1. Elderly individuals who may have a decreased appetite or absorption of nutrients, and may require additional supplementation to meet their nutritional needs.
  2. Pregnant or breastfeeding women who need to increase their intake of certain nutrients to support the growth and development of their babies.
  3. Vegetarians or vegans who may have difficulty obtaining certain nutrients from their diets, such as vitamin B12 or iron.
  4. Individuals with certain medical conditions or who are undergoing medical treatments that can affect their nutrient status.
  5. Athletes or individuals engaging in high levels of physical activity who may require additional supplementation to support their performance and recovery.
  6. Individuals with specific nutrient deficiencies, as diagnosed by a healthcare provider.

It's important to note that food supplements should only be taken under the guidance of a healthcare provider, and should not be used as a replacement for a healthy diet or other medical treatments. If you are considering taking a food supplement, it's best to speak with your healthcare provider to determine if it is right for you and to ensure that you are taking it safely and effectively.