The virtues of food supplements are diverse and varied, as are their forms.
What is the food supplement?
“Food supplements are foodstuffs whose purpose is to supplement the normal diet and which constitute a concentrated source of nutrients or other substances having a nutritional or physiological effect alone or combined, marketed in dose form.” According to Directive 2002/46/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of June 10, 2002 relating to food supplements (Food Supplements Framework Directive).
Understanding Dietary Supplements: Vitamins C & D, Amino Acids and more.
Food supplements are concentrated foods of essential nutrients to fill any deficiencies in our normal diet. They are found in various forms, such as softgels, capsules, lozenges, tablets, and more.
Vitamin C , for example, is essential for strengthening our immune system.
Amino acids are necessary for tissue growth and repair , as well as supporting the immune system .
Vitamin D helps with the absorption of calcium and phosphorus , essential for the health of our bones and teeth.
However, even if these supplements can support our health, they should not replace a balanced and varied diet .
Why consume food supplements?
Consumption of food supplements depends on what you are looking for.
These products have several roles depending on their composition.
Certain food supplements are sources of nutrients and will therefore help to compensate for dietary deficiencies.
Food supplements should be used to complement the diet and not replace it.
They are therefore composed of vitamins (A, B, C, D and E), and minerals (selenium, calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium, etc.).
- Reduce the inconveniences of everyday life :
Some discomforts may arise in daily life, regardless of pathologies such as difficult digestion, stress, insomnia or joint problems.
Generally, food supplements addressed to this type of problem are those which consist of plants or extracts of plants and vegetables. We call them herbal supplements.
These food supplements help maintain physiological balance, prevent and reduce disease risk factors (cholesterol, high blood pressure, etc.). They can also improve certain natural effects such as hair growth, memory stimulation, sleep regulation and others.
Protein-based food supplements also help promote the development or maintenance of muscle mass . The latter are mainly consumed by athletes.
Ingredients include fatty acids, collagen, yeast, etc.
Purchasing dietary supplements does not require a prescription, but the risk of overdose or drug interactions always exists, especially if you are under treatment.
In what forms can we find food supplements?
The following dosages are intended to be taken in small quantity measured units.
- Capsules
- Soft capsules
- Lozenges
- Tablets
- Gummies
- Powders
- Liquid ampoules
- Liquid in a bottle fitted with a dropper or pipette
