Are Vitamin And Mineral Necessary

People spend billions and billions of dollars yearly on supplements of all types. Once referred to simply as vitamin supplements, these supplements are now in pill, capsule, powder, or liquid form. They include vitamins and minerals as well as herbs, botanicals, fiber, amino acids, and other extracts. Many people choose to take these supplements because they worry that they just don't eat enough of the right kinds of foods, kind of like an "insurance policy" for nutrients. Others do so for protective benefits, thinking more is better in the fight against illness and disease. And still others do so as a "miracle cure," thinking that a supplement may cure or eliminate a health problem. Are these dollars being spent wisely? Are all these supplements really necessary?

Vitamin/mineral supplements are just that, a "supplement." They are not "miracle cures," do not enhance energy, and do not make up for poor nutrition. The only thing that they can do is to provide the vitamin or mineral source in question and help prevent its deficiency.

Recommended dietary allowances of each vitamin and mineral are available for consumers to understand how much of each source is necessary on a daily basis. Many supplements offer much more than these recommended levels. For the water-soluble vitamins, this may present no immediate problems as excesses are eliminated in the urine. But in the case of fat-soluble vitamins, excesses are stored and can become toxic if levels become excessive. Always check dosages before taking any product and do not take excessive levels of any vitamin or mineral unless otherwise prescribed by your doctor.

Supplements can be costly. They provide no energy or fuel, no fiber, no taste, and no satiety. They provide none of the benefits you find in the wide variety of foods available. Wouldn't you agree that getting these vitamins and minerals from the foods we eat is much more beneficial?

In some instances, however, supplements may be necessary. A physician may prescribed vitamin supplements when needs are greater, as in the case of an illness, a chronic condition, or pregnancy, or under special conditions like breastfeeding or during recovery from surgery.