Search
Language
What are dietary supplements?
Table of Contents
1. What are dietary supplements?
The concept of dietary supplementation is defined by the Food and Nutrition Safety Act. According to this document, dietary supplements are included in food and can therefore be sold in any grocery store. Supplements are used to enrich our daily diet, but cannot be a substitute for it. Dietary supplementations in the form of tablets, capsules, powder or fluid are intended to deliver to the body compounds that may be lacking. They are often used as a weight loss aid, to improve learning ability, to help our weak hair and nails, and also to help the joints. In many cases, they are available in pharmaceutical form, which is often mistaken for medication, although they are not used by pharmacists.2. Dietary supplements composition
The most popular supplements are those containing vitamins, macro- and micro-elements (magnesium), minerals, fats, enzymes, plant extracts (e.g. acai berries - dietary supplement for weight loss), everything that is supposed to help the body in one way or another. European Union law strictly defines the set and form in which they can be produced.3. How do you buy supplements?
Before you buy a product, you should check that it is in the Register of registered dietary supplements, which can be found on the website of our main health inspectorate. It is worthwhile to choose the supplements from well-known manufacturers. Big companies that manufacture dietary supplement can't afford a bad reputation. If we buy products from reputable manufacturers, we can be sure of their highest quality.4. Is it worth taking dietary supplements?
In some cases, the use of dietary supplements is justified and even necessary. However, it is possible to mention those who follow a poorly balanced vegetarian diet and have an increased need for nutrients, such as pregnant women, breastfeeding women or athletes. It is also difficult to build muscle mass using only a well-balanced diet. In this case, protein supplements are necessary.5. Dietary supplements How to use them?
There are various types of dietary supplements on the market that support the digestive system, the bloodstream, the immune system, help to reduce weight, build muscle mass, or are intended for specific groups: pregnant women, athletes, the elderly. It is important to take them carefully. First of all, you should follow the recommended doses. Both deficiency and excess of individual nutrients have less or more negative side effects.6. Summary
In times of widespread shortages of vitamins and minerals, supplementation is very often justified and in some cases even necessary. Supplements with vitamin D are recommended, especially in autumn and winter. It is important to use dietary supplements with caution, according to the recommended dose.
