Dietary supplements are a tablet, liquid, pill or capsule manufactured to be taken to supplement a normal diet. They can provide needed nutrients for those who have deficiencies. Supplements can also be other substances or ingredients that have less obvious health benefits or even no real health benefits. Supplements are useful in many situations and may even be prescribed by doctors. However, there are supplements that are essentially useless and supplements that may even result in harmful effects instead of positive ones. Before taking any kind of supplement you should do extensive research into supplements you are considering taking and/or discuss supplements with a qualified healthcare professional. If you are on the fence about supplements and feel like you need more information, keep reading. Here are some important things you should know about supplements.
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Manufacturing
You should be aware that supplements can be produced through two types of manufacturing, namely private label supplements manufacturing and custom supplement manufacturing. Private label manufacturing refers to non-brand name manufacturing. Those supplements produced through private label manufacturing are generally the cheaper, generic brand. They are called private label because they are sold under the company’s private label, though they are actually creating supplements using the work of the different company; private label supplements are stock from a third party company with a different name. Custom supplements are a unique innovation. The recipe and product are a new invention by a company instead of someone else’s work.
Types
There are many different kinds of health supplements. There are those that provide needed vitamins like vitamins D, B12 and C. There are also supplements created to replenish nutrients in those with deficiencies. Such nutrient supplements include calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, iron and zinc. There are also herbal supplements like ginkgo. Dietary supplements may also contain such ingredients as amino acids, fatty acids, minerals and enzymes. Even fish oil has been made into a supplement.
Choice
So should you take supplements? Supplements are not a necessary part of every person’s diet. Those with deficiencies may need supplements and may obtain a prescription for some from the doctor. However, taking supplements is a choice; if you maintain a healthy, balanced diet, it should give you all the nutrients and vitamins your body needs, barring some disease or medical condition that keeps your body from accepting or retaining necessary materials. You should also be aware that while there are many beneficial supplements, there are also supplements that can cause bad side effects and harm the body. Also, taking supplements in excess of what it needs can also lead to health problems. Any supplement that claims to heal or cure anything is suspicious, and it should be discussed with a doctor or other healthcare personnel before you take it.
Supplements are a useful thing in many situations. However, keep in mind that not all of them are good for you, some of them don’t do anything and some, while not bad, may not be something you personally should be taken. Always do research or talk to a healthcare professional before going on a supplement, especially if you are on other medicine.
