When it comes to getting the essential vitamins and minerals our bodies need, many people turn to dietary supplements. But is this really the best option? While supplements may contain the same vitamins and minerals as foods, there are many benefits to getting these nutrients from whole foods.Natural nutrients are found naturally in foods such as fruits, vegetables and eggs, while synthetic nutrients are found in dietary supplements. Many adults and children in the United States take one or more vitamins or other dietary supplements. In addition to vitamins, dietary supplements may contain minerals, herbs or other botanical ingredients, amino acids, enzymes, and many other ingredients.
Dietary supplements come in a variety of forms, including tablets, capsules, gummies and powders, as well as energy drinks and bars. Popular supplements include vitamins D and B12; minerals such as calcium and iron; herbs such as echinacea and garlic; and products such as glucosamine, probiotics and fish oils.The advantages of consuming natural nutrients from whole foods have been linked to the wide range of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fiber and fatty acids found in them. However, supplements cannot replace the variety of foods that are important to a healthy eating routine. Trace elements are found in small amounts in a variety of foods such as meat, fish, cereals, milk and dairy products, vegetables and nuts.Studies on the beneficial health effects of many synthetic nutrients have been inconsistent, weak, or have shown no effect.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not determine if dietary supplements are effective before they are marketed. There is no clear evidence to suggest that most synthetic nutrients are beneficial to healthy, well-nourished people.Refined or processed foods, such as canned fruits and vegetables, pulp-free juices, white breads and pasta, and non-whole grains, have less fiber. You should get most of the energy you need from starchy foods (potatoes, pasta and cereals) without eating free sugars. Find out how much dietary fiber you need, the foods that contain it, and how to add them to meals and snacks.
Another way to get more fiber is to eat foods with added fiber such as cereal, granola bars, yogurt and ice cream.So why is continuing to consume spinach, apples and almonds still the best option? This is because these whole foods provide a variety of essential vitamins and minerals that our bodies need for optimal health. They also contain trace elements that are essential for proper body functioning but in much smaller amounts than vitamins and minerals. Furthermore, whole foods provide antioxidants which help protect our cells from damage caused by free radicals.In conclusion, while dietary supplements may contain the same vitamins and minerals as foods, it is still best to get these nutrients from whole foods. Whole foods offer a wide range of essential vitamins and minerals that our bodies need for optimal health.
Additionally, whole foods provide antioxidants which help protect our cells from damage caused by free radicals.
