Fortunately, there are a variety of dietary supplements available for consumers to choose from. These products can be in the form of pill, powder, or capsule, and can provide a wide range of nutrients extracted from or synthesized from foods.
Vitamin B12
Deficiency of vitamin B12 can cause serious neurological problems. It can also lead to anemia, low blood counts, and other disorders. Typically, people have no symptoms of anemia until their blood levels are extremely low. However, severe anemia can lead to rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, and dizziness.
Supplements can help individuals meet their nutritional needs. The Daily Value for vitamin B12 is 2.4 mcg for adults and children. In addition to supplements, foods are often fortified with vitamin B12, making them a good source of this important nutrient.
Many individuals are at risk for vitamin B12 deficiency. Pregnant women are more at risk than other people because they are especially prone to a vitamin B12 deficiency. Additionally, people with celiac disease or intestinal surgery are at risk.
Minerals
Whether you consume a mineral supplement or eat a food containing minerals, it’s important to know how much of what you’re consuming is actually helpful for you. Many of the essential minerals in supplements are not absorbed well by the body.
The chemical form of the mineral is also a factor. Minerals that are not in their natural state can cause a variety of toxic effects. In addition, dietary factors and other nutrient components can contribute to the effectiveness of minerals.
In the context of human nutrition, the best source of minerals is plants. Plants use their own roots to absorb the minerals they need. They also change the biochemical forms of compounds.
In the context of nutrient safety, the best approach is to determine a tolerable upper intake level (TUIL). This allows you to determine how much of the nutrient you’re taking is safe to take. The amount can be expressed in supplemental or total dietary intake.
Fish oil
Several decades ago, food manufacturers began adding fish oil supplements to a wide variety of foods. This was promoted as a relatively easy way to improve mental health, relieve inflammation, and lower blood pressure. However, some researchers have questioned whether these products have any real health benefits.
Some studies have suggested that fish oil may benefit some people, while others have concluded that the benefits are minor. While the research is not conclusive, these supplements are generally safe.
The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil are known to have anti-inflammatory effects. They can also lower triglycerides, which are a risk factor for heart disease.
There have been several studies that suggest that fish oil reduces the risk of heart attacks and strokes in those with coronary artery disease. But, these studies do not show much evidence that it also reduces abnormal heart rhythm deaths.
Sulfur
Getting enough sulfur from your diet is essential for your health. It’s a component of many important compounds, including amino acids and enzymes. You can find it in foods, such as asparagus, garlic, onions, and brussels sprouts. Alternatively, you can take dietary supplements.
Sulfur supplementation may help to relieve arthritis pain. It also helps to reduce inflammation, which is important for maintaining joint health. It can be used to fight certain skin conditions, such as rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, and poison ivy.
Several studies have looked at the effects of sulfur-containing compounds. Veterinary medicine researchers have noted the benefits of these compounds for inflammatory problems in muscles. The same researchers also found that it helped relieve joint pain and stiffness.
A recent study evaluated the effects of a dietary supplement containing sulfur on human volunteers. The results suggested that a large percentage of the population might be not getting enough sulfur.
DSHEA
It is a United States federal legislation that regulates dietary supplements. DSHEA was enacted in 1994. In addition to providing regulatory authority for dietary supplements, the law also added food safety requirements.
One of the most important features of DSHEA is the definition of a dietary supplement. It includes ingredients such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids, herbs, and other dietary substances.
Although DSHEA is not strictly regulated, the law is a guiding force behind the ever-growing dietary supplement industry. DSHEA has also provided the FDA with the tools to protect consumers from products that might be unsafe or contain unscrupulous claims.
The Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act was an answer to the growing regulatory concerns facing the supplement industry. It has provided more information about dietary supplements, a more standardized definition for dietary supplements, and additional enforcement authority.
