The Dietary Supplements Industry: Myth Busters!

Some supplements work together like comrades. For instance, vitamin C helps the body absorb iron.

Health concerns are on the constant rise post-pandemic. With rising health concerns, people seem to be reasonably interested in nutrition and health management. It seems to be the best time to discuss health and nutrition and spread awareness.

For centuries, vitamin and mineral supplementation has been associated with good health. From the intricate functionality of the body to the beauty benefits of healthy skin, vitamins and minerals have miraculous benefits for health. 

The Uncertain Dietary Supplements Sector and its Myths

Concerning supplements, it might be difficult to tell the difference between science and fiction. In addition to this, the dietary supplement sector has little control. There is a lot of misinformation and controversies surrounding the dietary supplements sector.

In addition, the claims made in the supplement sector have many levels of "double-dealing." So, before you swallow any more supplementation, consider this thorough research. In addition, examine the following supplement myths:

Myth: Taking a Multivitamin May Compensate for a Bad Diet and Keep You Healthy.

Reality: Scientists are still divided on whether multivitamins are useful. According to several studies, multivitamins protect the human body from an early death. Others demonstrate that they provide no benefit. In any case, eating is always the finest prescription for essential nutrients.

A balanced diet can fulfill body’s requirements of vitamins and minerals. However, the safe amounts of these nutrients have yet to be identified through research. Dietary supplements are meant to augment, not replace, the diet.

Myth: Supplements are Natural, So They Are All Safe.

Reality: Natural does not always imply safe or effectiveness. After all, arsenic is naturally occurring. However, it is a potent carcinogen (cancer-causing agent), making it dangerous to consume.

Myth: You Can't Go Through a Vitamin Overdose.

Reality: If you take vitamins and minerals while eating a high-protein diet of fortified cereals and sports bars (which often contain 100% or more of the RDA for certain vitamins and minerals), you may be overdoing it.

Even worse, you can end up hurting vital organs in the process. A surplus of vitamin A might be harmful to your liver. In addition, too much vitamin B6 may harm your nerves. Going further, too much vitamin C may convert antioxidants into pro-oxidants.

Myth: Supplements are Strictly Monitored.

Reality: Unlike prescription or over-the-counter pharmaceuticals, the FDA does not evaluate whether dietary supplements are safe and effective before making them available to the public. Consumers are instead at the discretion of the manufacturer.

However, this does not imply that no precautions are in place. The FDA and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) monitor label information once a dietary supplement is on the market. They exist to verify that the product claims by these traders are not deceptive.

A tiny set of watchdog groups, notably the United States Pharmacopeia and the National Science Foundation, provide stamps of approval to products. They ensure that the products are correctly made and contain the contents specified on the label. 

One such certified body among Nutraceutical Distributors is Jeeva Organic. They specialize in providing the highest quality of nutraceuticals and dietary supplements. With their robust supply chain, they hold the potential to deliver your product on time, along with every certification required for the trade to be possible.

Myth: Supplements are Never Required.

Reality: Dietary supplements may be helpful for specific populations. Supplements may also aid in managing various illnesses. Here are several examples:

  • Someone on a low-calorie diet could benefit from a multivitamin and mineral supplement
  • Someone allergic to milk may benefit from calcium and vitamin D supplements.
  • A vegan may benefit from vitamin B12 supplementation.
  • Pregnant women may benefit from folic acid supplementation

Many supplements are still being debated, but most experts believe they are only beneficial if you are low in a specific nutrient. For instance, women who lose a lot of iron from their bodies during their periods may need additional iron supplements. On the other hand, menopausal women may require more calcium and vitamin D.

Myth: Supplements Do Not Interact With Medicinal Drugs, According to Popular Belief.

Reality: Supplements don't interact with pharmaceuticals. However, the vitamins and minerals in supplements may react with other drugs and healthcare products you take. Some supplements, such as vitamin K (which aids in blood clotting), zinc (which some people believe enhances immunity), and omega-3 fatty acids (which thin the blood), may interfere with prescription and over-the-counter drugs.

The supplements you take may interfere with or enhance the effects of your prescription medications, whether you take aspirin regularly to avoid heart disease or an antibiotic for a bacterial illness. To avoid potential bad interactions, you should always share a list of supplements you are currently taking with your doctor and pharmacist.

Myth: It is best to Take Vitamin Supplements on an Empty Stomach.

Reality: Many vitamins are water-soluble, meaning they dissolve in liquid. These vitamins are absorbed by the body practically at any time of day, regardless of what's in your stomach. However, four fat-soluble vitamins—A, D, E, and K—can only be absorbed with fat.

So, if you're taking a multivitamin that contains a fat-soluble vitamin, combine it with some fat-containing food. In addition, many people say they feel uncomfortable after taking a supplement on an empty stomach.

Myth: Supplements Always Complement Each Other.

Reality: Some supplements work together like comrades. For instance, vitamin C helps the body absorb iron. However, others collaborate against one another. Calcium, for example, inhibits iron absorption, while zinc inhibits copper absorption. Taking too much of one nutrient can result in a lack of another.

Tell your doctor about any supplements you're taking, even if you think they're harmless. Many vitamins and minerals, as well as herbal supplements, might cause a rash or stomach trouble. They can also interfere with prescriptions and vitamins. Thus, it is essential to know the reality behind these prevalent myths.

In addition, it is essential that while bulk souring nutraceuticals and dietary supplements, one should ensure the necessary certifications and authenticity of a product.

Rest assured, and make the right choices to live a long healthy life!

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