It is advisable to eat a varied, healthy diet that is rich in nutrients that the body needs to function healthily and optimally. However many of us may be unable to tolerate certain foods or our lifestyles prevent us from having the kind of healthy intake that we need to have.

Date:   7/17/2013 4:05:15 AM ( 11 y ago)

It is always advisable to eat a varied, healthy diet that is rich in nutrients - natural, unrefined produce and high fiber foods are the best way to obtain everything that the body needs to function healthily and optimally. However many of us may be unable to tolerate certain foods. It could also be that our lifestyles prevent us from having the kind of healthy intake that we need to have.

Some of us have medical conditions that may cause nutritional imbalances. One more problem could be medications that some of us have to take - these could interfere with nutrient absorption too. Nutritional supplements can be a safe and effective way to keep the body healthy and to prevent disease and disorder. Some of the safest and most effective supplements are:

Fish Oil/Omega 3 Fatty Acid Supplements

We know that fish is packed with nutrients and healthy fats - tuna, salmon, and mackerel are great for us. We also know that Omega 3 fatty acids help protect the heart and improve body functioning - walnuts, flax, soybeans and canola oil are some good sources of this.  However it may not be possible for us to consume sufficient quantities of fish due to concerns about mercury or because of personal beliefs. In such cases, a supplement may be recommended.

Calcium Supplement

Calcium deficiency can cause many problems ranging from poor bone health to several other metabolic problems. Calcium is most easily obtained from dairy products, however increasing numbers of people have lactose intolerance or prefer to eschew dairy for ethical reasons. For them, getting enough calcium only from food sources can become a challenge and a supplement may be indicated.

Iron Supplement

People with anemia or other blood related disorders may be advised to have an iron supplement. Plus pregnant women, women with menstrual problems and some post menopausal women may also experience certain nutritional deficiencies that can be corrected with iron supplements.

Protein Supplement

Vegans or people with certain intolerances may find that they are unable to consume sufficient protein from their food. In such cases, a protein supplement may be indicated.

Vitamin C

There is some evidence to show that this vitamin could help improve the body's immunity and its ability to overcome infection quicker. It is also thought that it can increase the speed at which the body heals itself from wounds or physical injury.

Vitamin B (riboflavin, B-12, niacin, thiamin, pantothenic acid and B-6)

Older people and people on medications that interfere with the absorption of these vitamins are most likely to need one or more of these supplements.

Vitamin D

Most people who spend some amount of time in the sun and have a normal, balanced diet may not need this supplement. However people with specific deficiencies may be advised to take this nutritional supplement.

It is important to consult your doctor before starting or stopping any nutritional supplement. Certain nutritional supplements may be quite unnecessary; and in some cases they could cause an excess of certain nutrients in the body, which could prove counterproductive. Some supplements could also react negatively with certain medications.

Author information:

Sarika Periwal writes about health and wellness. Nutritional supplements may be necessary for people with low stamina/strength or poor dietary habits. Check these immune system health tips and consult your doctor regarding any deficiencies you may have. 

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