1. The purpose of supplements is indicated by the name: they’re supplemental. They add something extra if you’re short of a certain nutrient or need a certain effect. They’re not meant to replace a balanced diet.
2. Sometimes, you need supplements of certain vitamins or minerals because, for whatever reason, your body can’t get them from elsewhere (perhaps you don’t have access to enough fruit and vegetables) and the deficiency is causing health problems.
3. In other cases, you may have a normal amount of a certain nutrient but need more than average. A lot of athletes need extra protein to ensure they can build their muscles up to full strength.
4. There are certain times in your life when supplements may become more important. During pregnancy, for example, supplements like folic acid are taken because you need to ensure the baby also receives adequate nutrition.
5. If you’re considering taking a supplement, it’s important to do your research and talk to a doctor first to see if it’s the best choice for your specific situation. That’s especially true if you’re on prescribed medication that may interact with supplements.
6. Once you’ve decided on a supplement, you still need to make sure you buy the right one. Supplements aren’t regulated in the same way as medicines, and you can’t always guarantee the ingredients and efficacy, especially if you’re buying online. Only use trusted sellers.
7. Talking to experts about your supplements is also important because taking something you don’t need can be harmful. It’s not always the case, but you may end up with an excessive amount of the substance in question and create a whole new set of health problems.
8. Supplements can come in lots of different forms, both in terms of what they contain and how they are delivered. For example, in addition to the more familiar vitamins and minerals, there may be amino acids, enzymes, various herbs or other botanical ingredients. Again, research is imperative for understanding.
9. You may choose to take your supplement as a powder that can be added to drinks, a tablet or capsule, a gel, an injection, a patch, or any number of other ways. It depends on what makes you most comfortable and how the supplement works best.
10. Finally, just remember to follow all the dosage instructions. If you’re careful, you should be safe.
