Nutritional Supplements: Advantages and Disadvantages

Nutritional Supplements: Advantages and Disadvantages

In ancient times, people used a variety of herbs to treat diseases and viruses, reduce fever and heal scars. Natural remedies are able to reduce pain, improve metabolism or help calm down and get rid of.

By studying various plants, the scientists came to the conclusion that the effectiveness of these plants in some cases is not inferior to the effects of drugs, and at the same time allow not to worry about possible side effects. Therefore, in pharmacology, products such as food supplements - concentrates of biologically active substances were created as a supplement to the daily diet to prevent the lack of substances necessary for the body.

                                     

Advantages

Biologically active additives or food supplements are not medicines, therefore the principle of their use is different.

Nutritional supplements are more often used to strengthen immunity or as an additional source of vitamins, because in today's busy pace of life, people are often unable to absorb the necessary substances in the body with food.

Natural supplements can be an effective aid in the treatment of various chronic diseases, but only in combination with medications and instructions prescribed by a doctor. Additional properties of biologically active additives:

• Assists in the metabolic regulation process;
• Promotes the formation of blood cells and proper blood clotting;
• Acts as an antioxidant;
• Some food supplements have hormone-like effects.
• Promotes the development of enzymes in the body;
• Has a beneficial effect on cellular respiratory processes;
• Helps to remove toxins from the body;
• Promotes the functioning of the body's reproductive system;
• Promotes the normal formation of connective tissue;
• Strengthens the cardiovascular system;
• Helps to improve immunity;
• Helps maintain a normal electrolyte (sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium and chlorine) balance in the body, which is necessary for heart, muscle and nerve health;
• Improves the balance of acids and alkalis (ph) in the body;
•       Has a beneficial effect on the intestinal microflora. 

Flaws (Disadvantages)

The effects of food supplements on the body are still actively discussed. The negative features are:

 

• habit of long-term use. Over time, the body becomes accustomed to receiving the necessary biologically active substances in high concentrations, and discontinuation of the dietary supplement may lead to deterioration of well-being and other undesirable symptoms, as well as deterioration of the body's natural defenses and synthesis of substances;

 

• Incorrect combination of vitamins and minerals. The interactions of vitamins and minerals in food supplements have not been fully studied, for example, a substance in one product can neutralize the effects of another or, conversely, increase it, leading to various allergic reactions and disorders;

• Some food supplements can cause side effects (which are not always mentioned in the package leaflet), so in case of serious illness, it is essential to consult a doctor before taking food supplements.

 

When buying supplements, it is important to pay attention to the manufacturer. It is not recommended to buy these products from unreliable sources, such as online stores or based on advertisements on various foreign sites that promise "miracles" using these biologically active additives. There is a risk not only to buy a low-quality product that will not have any effect, but also to suffer serious health problems. Nutritional supplements should be purchased only in pharmacies and if recommended by your doctor.