supplements
As the name suggests, the idea is to supplement for any dietary nutrients that you may not get sufficiently from the food you eat. If you break down the food we eat and the variety of nutrients our bodies need to function optimally, it can seem quite overwhelming. — however food itself and the way our bodies absorb and utilise food is a lot more complex than we think.
Nutrients work in synergy to increase their bioavailability, it appears that the variety and composition of food we ingest allows for greater interaction with our bodies when they have complementary affects. For example, the presence of iron and vitamin C together which increases absorption. Food interacts with our bodies to provide the most bioavailable sources of nutrients that we can absorb, store and utilise while excreting the excess… so when taking supplements, you may just be paying for very expensive pee.
Therefore, if you are using supplements in replacement of real, whole food, then chances are you are missing our on other important nutrients those foods would otherwise provide. For example, if you do not consume enough fruit and veg and decide that instead of simply increasing daily intake you will just pop a tablet to make up for lost vitamin C
you are probably spending more money on the tablets
You are missing out on the most bioavailable form of vitamin C
You are missing out on the fibre, water, carbohydrates and other important nutrients fruit provides
By thinking of each meal as a way to introduce and incorporate a range of varying nutrients into your diet, you may find you start to eat a lot healthier.
Are they safe?
This is a tricky one, because yes, supplements approved for sale within Australia are generally safe when consumed as directed, however this does not take into consideration your diet. If you are consuming a surplus of a specific vitamin it may exist in toxic levels within your body and cause your liver and kidneys to work overtime. Excess of certain nutrients can also inhibit the absorption of others which may create a state of deficiency.
Labels claim all kinds of different health benefits associated with consuming their products, however as all things health related, be sceptical of quick fixes and miracle cures. If something works for someone it doesn’t mean it will work for you, to save time and money it is best to consult with you doctor who will be able to analyse your specific needs.
If you feel you are missing something in your diet and for whatever reason you cannot attain it from food, then speak to your doctor who will be able to identify any deficiencies.