Should daily supplements be taken? This is the
big question that needs answering.
We’ve been advised to get our 5 or 7 a day from
our food.
However, given our busy lives who can honestly
say they eat a rainbow colour of fruits and vegetables. It is true we can get
our vitamins and minerals by eating healthy balanced diet. It is also true that
supplements are needed when we do lack some of our nutrients.
Why are
vitamins and Minerals important?
They are important simply because they are
essential nutrients that our body needs to function.
Supplements are recommended for various reasons:
For instance, Folic acid in pregnancy: women are
advised to begin taking Vitamin B12 3 months before they get pregnant and up to
12 weeks of pregnancy, this is because folic acid can help to prevent neutral
tube defects such as spina bifida.
Iron: plays several important roles in our body,
it helps to makes red blood cells
Calcium helps build strong bones and teeth
Vitamin C has a multitude functions
It is also recommended that all pregnant and
breastfeeding women, children aged 6 months to 5 years and those who are 65 and
over, anyone not exposed to the sun take vitamin D supplements.
Supplements
for Children:
I have had this discussion with my friends a few
times, those who believe children should take supplements and those who think
they shouldn’t.
The health department’s recommendation is that
children aged 6 months to 5 years should take a supplement containing Vitamins
A, C, and D. this is because growing children tend not to get enough from their
diet. If you have kids like mine, who have a certain liking for some food
groups, fruits and vegetables, and a deep dislike for others, then you will
understand their need for supplement.
It is true that a balance diet will definitely
provide you with all the supplement you need. But my conclusion is, unless you
go purely organic, and have at least a daily combination of 7 to 10 potions of
fruits and vegetables, are in the best health possible, supplement may be
taken.
I am on a several supplements, A, C, D and folic
acid as a result of my rheumatoid arthritis, and I attribute my daily strength
to taking supplements as well as having a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, fish
and other healthy foods.
According to Harvard publication: a recent
randomized trial in men suggested multivitamins have possible benefits for
cancer prevention. Results from other trials regarding other supplements will
be available within the next five years. According to Dr Manson.
Should we?
Should we Not?
Supplements can be dangerous when taken in
larger than recommended quantities. always check with your doctor before
opening a bottle of pills. If you are lacking in a particular nutrient, consult
our doctor for advise on whether you can take a particular supplement and
always stick to the recommended daily allowance.
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Sources: Harvard Health publications, BMA
publications, NHS health wise.
