What is a supplement
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Understanding Dietary Supplements: Definition, Uses, and Implications
What is a Dietary Supplement?
Definition and Purpose
Dietary supplements are products designed to augment the diet by providing nutrients that may be missing or insufficient in a person's regular food intake. These can include vitamins, minerals, amino acids, fatty acids, and other substances, and are available in various forms such as pills, tablets, capsules, and liquids1 3 8. The primary goal of dietary supplements is to address nutrient deficiencies, support overall health, and enhance physical performance1 6.
Types of Dietary Supplements
Categories and Forms
Dietary supplements encompass a wide range of products, including vitamins, minerals, proteins, multivitamins, multiminerals, herbs, carbohydrates, hormone activators, and oil supplements6 8. They are available in multiple dosage forms like capsules, tablets, powders, energy bars, and liquids, making them accessible and convenient for different needs and preferences8.
Benefits of Dietary Supplements
Health and Performance Enhancement
Supplements can play a crucial role in managing micronutrient deficiencies, providing convenient forms of energy and macronutrients, and offering direct or indirect benefits to physical performance2 4. For instance, specific supplements like caffeine, creatine, and nitrate have been shown to enhance performance in high-intensity exercises2 4. Additionally, supplements can help improve overall health outcomes, such as reducing the incidence of cancer and cataracts with daily low-dose multivitamin use10.
Risks and Considerations
Potential Harm and Misuse
Despite their benefits, dietary supplements can pose risks if not used appropriately. Excessive consumption can lead to harmful side effects and health disturbances1 3. Moreover, the lack of stringent regulations means that some supplements may contain toxic substances or prohibited agents, posing risks to health and, for athletes, potential anti-doping violations1 2 4. Therefore, it is essential to undertake a complete nutritional assessment and seek expert advice before using supplements2 5 9.
Regulatory and Safety Issues
Market and Regulation
The global market for dietary supplements is vast, driven by increasing demand among various population groups, including the elderly, pregnant women, and urban dwellers6. However, the regulatory landscape is often inadequate, leading to the availability of products that have not undergone rigorous clinical trials1 7. Ensuring the safety and efficacy of supplements requires careful selection of reputable manufacturers and formulations that have been quality control tested7.
Conclusion
Dietary supplements can be valuable in addressing nutrient deficiencies and enhancing health and performance when used correctly. However, their misuse and the potential for harmful effects necessitate careful consideration, professional guidance, and a thorough understanding of their benefits and risks. By making informed choices, individuals can maximize the positive outcomes of supplement use while minimizing potential adverse effects.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
[Dietary supplements - a temporary trend or an effective help in the fight against obesity and increasing physical performance].
Dietary supplements may not be safe for all people and may cause harmful side effects, so exercise and a healthy diet are the best way to lose weight and improve physical performance.
Systematic ReviewIOC consensus statement: dietary supplements and the high-performance athlete
Dietary supplements can enhance performance in elite athletes, but proper use and safety are crucial, with expert advice and trialling recommended before competition.
Very Rigorous Journal
Highly CitedHealth and Dietary Supplements
Nutritional supplements can improve performance, physical appearance, and avoid dangerous drugs, but excessive consumption may cause side effects.
Systematic ReviewThe use of dietary supplements by athletes
Dietary supplements may be useful for athletes in specific circumstances, but their use should be based on a full understanding of potential benefits and risks, and consulted with a sports nutrition professional.
Highly CitedIOC Consensus Statement: Dietary Supplements and the High-Performance Athlete.
Dietary supplements can enhance performance in elite athletes, but proper use and awareness of potential risks are crucial for optimal results and protection of health and reputation.
Highly CitedDietary Supplements: Types, Health Benefits, Industry and Regulation
Dietary supplements can improve health and wellness by addressing nutrient imbalances or absences in a person's diet, but excessive consumption may pose health risks.
Dietary Supplements: Understanding the Complexity of Use and Applications to Health
This chapter provides an overview of dietary supplements and nutraceuticals, focusing on nomenclature, regulatory issues, and assessing reputable manufacturers to ensure safe and quality-controlled products for healthcare.
Importance of Dietary Supplements to the Health
Dietary supplements are essential for maintaining good health and preventing diseases, with their importance varying based on age, gender, and dietary habits.
Making Decisions About Supplement Use.
Athletes should make informed choices about supplement use to maximize benefits while minimizing risks, considering both positive and negative outcomes.
Highly CitedDietary supplements and disease prevention — a global overview
Dietary supplements can improve health and meet micronutrient requirements, particularly in developing countries and those at risk of deficiencies.
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