The Tea
An ongoing debate I have with my health-conscious mother is whether or not I need to take dietary supplements.
She is convinced that the average human diet is not enough to provide our bodies with all the nutrients they need, and always has an impressive supply of vitamins in her kitchen.
I, on the other hand, believe in the power of a good diet. Vegetables and fruits are the foundations of my meals. I also make sure to eat plenty of whole grains, lean proteins, and superfood add-ons like chia seeds and spirulina. I feel healthy and my lack of serious illnesses seems to support my belief, but I can’t help my have a sneaking suspicion that my mother might actually be right.
In order to put an end to this debate, I decided to do a bit more digging and answer the question once and for all: do you really need to take dietary supplements?
The Brew
Are Dietary Supplements Necessary?
Yes, dietary supplements are necessary and helpful, but not for everyone. If you aren’t eating right and are missing many essential nutrients in your diet, then you can use dietary supplements to make up for any nutrient deficiencies.
On the other hand, you can skip them if you’re committed to maintaining a healthy diet. A well-balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources should provide your body with all the nutrients it needs to stay healthy.
The main issue becomes determining where your diet falls on the spectrum. You probably have a general idea of how well you’re eating, but it’s always best to consult with a professional to find out exactly which nutrients your diet is lacking in. A doctor or dietician will be able to take tests and provide you with personalized advice for what your diet could use more of.
Who Needs Dietary Supplements?
Dietary supplements can be helpful for people who want extra support in their efforts to reach their fitness goals faster than they would naturally be able to do so on their own.
The trend and popularity of dietary supplements started when athletes started using them because they wanted to achieve their fitness goals quickly. Although athletes have good diets, all the nutrients in food are often not readily available, so your body takes time to build strength, muscles, and endurance.
The nutrients in dietary supplements are available as soon as these pills enter your body, so you can achieve your goals sooner. Dietary supplements are for you if you want to lose weight or to deal with the following health issues:
- Low energy levels
- Weak bones and teeth
- Health problems like heart disease or cancer
What Are the Benefits of Dietary Supplements?
Aside from boosting levels of specific nutrients within your body, dietary supplements can provide you with several other health benefits.
- Increased Energy and Stamina
If you feel like regular energy boosters like coffee aren’t enough to keep you alert, you can try a supplement. Look for varieties that contain L-carnitine or beta-alanine to keep you energized throughout the day and make exercise easier on your body.
- For Healthy Skin, Hair, and Nails
Dietary supplements can be used with a healthy diet to improve the health and appearance of your skin, hair, and/or nails. These supplements can provide the essential minerals and vitamins your body needs to stay healthy. The most important vitamins you can get from dietary supplements for a more beautiful appearance are vitamins C, A, E, and B5.
- For Vitamin D
You’re more likely to have a vitamin D deficiency if you live in a part of the world that doesn’t get a lot of sun, even if it’s only for certain seasons. Taking vitamin D supplements will make up for this, helping you achieve stronger and healthier bones.
Do You Need Supplements On a Carnivorous Diet?
Yes, you might need specific supplements even if you eat meat. This food type alone is not enough to provide your body with all the vitamins and minerals it needs, especially if you’re not rounding out your diet with vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, or you’re eating a lot of processed foods.
Do You Need Supplements On a Vegan Diet?
Like meat eaters, or anyone else, vegans need to make sure their diet provides them with all the necessary nutrients they need to thrive. However, it is a false myth that all vegans need to take supplements. They won’t have to if they can find plant-based sources that cover all of their bases. It’s not impossible, but it can be more challenging, especially for the nutrients like calcium, vitamin B12, and iron.
The Pour
So, which team is correct – supplements or no supplements? The answer is that it depends on your existing diet. Some people are perfectly healthy without them, while others can benefit from the extra nutritional boost they provide. The best way to find out if you need any is to speak to a healthcare professional or dietician that can thoroughly assess your dietary needs.
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