Pause! Think Before Jumping For Supplementation

Before you start taking dietary supplementation, you should understand the term itself. The term supplementation denotes something added. Vitamins, minerals, and other added nutrients should be considered as extras. They are add-ons which cannot be a replacements of a healthy diet. As food naturally contains various nutrients, you should remember that food should always be your primary source of nutrients. Food contains various beneficial substances, such as phytochemicals and fibre, that promote good health and cannot be duplicated with a pill or a regimen of supplements. When considering taking supplements, it is important to identify possible drawbacks as well that are specific to each types: 1. Micronutrient Supplements. We all know that vitamins and minerals are very important for our body but taking at high doses can be toxic as well. Therefore, it is vital to adhere to the Tolerable Upper Intake Levels (UL) so as not to consume too much of any vitamin. For example, too much vitamin A is toxic to the liver, which results in tinnitus (ringing in the ears), blurred vision, hair loss, skin rashes etc. Too much niacin (Vitamin B3) also results in peptic ulcer, hyperglycaemia, dizziness, and gout. Excess amount of Vitamin E results in muscle weakness, nausea , fatigue and in some cases diarrhoea. 2. Herbal Supplements. Some herbs cause side effects, such as heart palpitations and high blood pressure, and must be taken very carefully. Also, some herbs have contraindications with certain medicines. For example, Ginseng which is act as a stimulant in some people but high doses can cause headaches, dizziness, stomach upset and in case of women”s menstrual changes occurs. Additionally, there is a real risk of overdosing on herbs because they do not come with warning labels or package inserts. 3. Amino Acid Supplements. Certain amino acid supplements, which are taken by bodybuilders among others, can increase the risk of consuming too much protein. if you add the supplement to your existing diet, it creates negative impact on your body by receiving two to three times the amount of protein required on a daily basis from the existing diets by taking amino acid supplements. For Example, BCCA When consumed in large amounts results in fatigue, loss of coordination, nausea, headaches, and increased insulin resistance (which can lead to Type 2 diabetes). Just because a product is termed “Natural” that does not mean it can’t be harmful or dangerous, particularly if used inappropriately. You should understand that supplementation can be good only when accompanied by a diet which again depends on your health requirements. Therefore, vitamins and any dietary supplements can not be a substitute for food.