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What Are Diet Supplements?

A diet supplement is a pill, capsule or liquid, containing at least one dietary ingredient — vitamins, minerals, herbs and amino-acids. Products of this nature are labeled dietary supplements. They come in several categories. Some claim to help improve health, reducing the risk of disease. Some contain essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals. Other products claim they have effects on the organs or systems of the body.

Ideally, people of all ages should get all the nutrients they need by eating a healthful diet. Servings should come from all food groups - breads, cereals and grains, plus fruits and vegetables, dairy supplements and meat, and small quantities of sweets, fats and oils. Of course, many consume too much fat and sugar, and too little fiber. That's why so many supplement their diets with vitamins and minerals.

Taking supplements seems like a good idea, since poor nutrition is considered a contributing factor in many of the leading causes of death (coronary heart disease, cancer, stroke, diabetes, and diseases of the liver and kidneys). It's also a key factor in osteoporosis, which can lead to brittle bones, disabling fractures and death. Several groups of people who should add vitamins and minerals to their daily diets: Women of childbearing age, Those over 50 years of age, People on special diets, Those with a poor appetite, People on extreme weight-loss regimens, Smokers, and Anyone who drinks alcohol excessively.

People on Special Diets taking diet supplements: Anyone who is prescribed a special diet for a specific medical condition should consult a health professional for professional guidance that is tailored to their situation.

Those with a Poor Appetite:  People who don't eat well should adopt better dietary habits and take a multivitamin every day. The government plans to release new dietary guidelines in January recommending most Americans consume between five and 13 servings of fruits and vegetables daily, along with three servings of whole grain breads, rice or cereal, plus two to three cups of milk. The range in the number of servings is dependent on calorie needs.

People on Extreme Weight-Loss Regimens:  Extreme weight loss regimes refers to any diet program that restricts an individual to 1,000 calories or less. Individuals should only be on such a program while under medical supervision that would include a multivitamin. It is often recommended that a multivitamin be taken by anyone trying to restrict their calorie intake to less than 1,500 a day.

Dietary supplements do not require the approval of health officials unless they contain a new dietary ingredient.

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