Are dietary supplements good for our health?

Are you taking a collagen or brewer’s yeast cure? But you don’t know if these supplements are dangerous for your health? We have the answer for you!

The answer is complex and depends on several factors. Some supplements are useful for the body and others are not at all.

Yes, supplements can be helpful…

In case of proven deficiencies : like winter fatigue due to lack of vitamin D.

This is the most common and useful case of taking food supplements: nutritional deficiency !

For certain audiences : pregnant women, intense athletes, vegans… Supplements can meet specific needs.

But be careful, excess is never good!

Beware of overdose in vitamins or mineralsHaving “too much” of a certain nutrient in our body can ultimately have consequences on our health.
Drugs interactions : some supplements can interact with your treatments, hence the importance of talking to your doctor or pharmacist.

When should you take a dietary supplement?

Aymeric Dopterhead of the Nutrition Risk Assessment Unit at ANSES, sheds light on the subject with this first question that any future consumer of food supplements must ask themselves: “Do I really need it?”.

Indeed, if you are tired, stressed or have fragile skin, do not jump straight into taking food supplements! These signs may come from your lifestyle, your diet or your mental health.

Food supplements should be used only when the diet cannot meet nutritional needs.

Ask a healthcare professional for advice : doctor, nutritionist, dietician… They will assess your needs and direct you towards the appropriate supplements, if necessary.
Prioritize a healthy and balanced diet : it is the basis of good health! Supplements are just a supplement, not a miracle shortcut.
Choose quality productsIt is : check the certification and origin of the supplements you consume.

And what about beauty and slimming supplements?

Beware! Promises often exaggerated, effectiveness variable… Bet instead on ua balanced diet, regular physical activity and good sleep for long-lasting and healthy results.

Natural food supplements

It is better to favor supplements of natural origin such as marine magnesium, omega-3, spirulina, garlic capsules or even silicon, since they are generally very well assimilated and allow you to regain tone and vitality naturally.

So, are dietary supplements good for our health?

Dietary supplements may be beneficial for fill specific nutritional deficiencies, provided they are used appropriately and under the supervision of a healthcare professional. However, They should not be considered as substitutes for a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Excessive or inappropriate consumption may result side effects. It is therefore essential to carefully assess your needs before starting a treatment.