Minerals supplements provide the body with essential substances needed in the manufacture of the body. The minerals found in these dietary supplements are very important for the proper functioning of the cells. The minerals that are in the food are not always the complete amount of what is needed by the body. In order to get the complete amount of nutrients, one should take a multivitamin supplement. When considering dietary supplements, some of the most common and important minerals that are found are:
Folic Acid – This is a B-vitamin supplement. Women are prone to anemia and folic acid helps in restoring the normal level of this substance in the body. Many people consume folic acid-rich dietary supplements as a preventive measure against anemia. Those who suffer from anemia should consult a doctor before trying to take a folic acid dietary supplement. Some minerals that are helpful in increasing the folic acid levels are: brown seaweed, leafy green vegetables and dark green leafy vegetables like kale and spinach. Some minerals that reduce the risk of anemia are: rice bran, whole grain cereals, pinto beans, carrots, watermelon and citrus fruits.
Vitamins – They are a group of compounds that are water-soluble and are found in the tissues of the body. They are used by the body in the manufacture of hormones, enzymes, and other vitamins. These are the vitamins that are not toxic when taken in high doses. Some of the most commonly found vitamins in dietary supplements include: Vitamin A, B, C and E, Vitamin D, and Vitamin K. When using these vitamins for health benefits, it is best to consult a physician before taking them in high doses.
Minerals supplements also contain some minerals that are fat soluble and cannot be absorbed by the intestinal tract. These substances are in powdered form and dissolved in water. The fat-soluble vitamins are usually fat-free, vegetable-oil supplements. The liquid-soluble vitamins are usually vegetable protein supplements that have had emulsified fats removed. These products are usually in tablet or capsule form and should be consumed with food.
Complementary Medicines – they are substances that are used to prevent and treat disease by boosting the immune system or other body functions. They can be in the form of pills, capsules, liquid or tablets. They have different actions in the body and some help one function better than others. One example is the use of dietary supplements to boost the immune system. Many people take them because they are safer and don’t have side effects as with conventional medications. Although they are commonly used, there are still doubts about their effectiveness.
Herbal and natural dietary supplements have become more popular. They are usually made from herbs and plants and they contain nutrients that are missing from the diets we follow. They may be safer for consumption as they have less side effects and they are also easier on the digestive system and the liver. Their action is similar to the action of conventional medicines but with fewer chances of reactions.
Liquid and Tablets are the two major forms of dietary supplements. Liquid supplements are easier to take, for example when traveling and they have a faster absorption rate. However, they cannot be stored for a long time and the nutrients are not released gradually in the body like the solid vitamins and minerals. Tablets on the other hand are absorbed much slower and their release of nutrients is gradual. They can also be stored for a longer period of time but the nutrients are released slowly as well, this makes tablets a better option for prolonged usage.
All supplements have potential risks and should be used carefully. Minerals supplements can cause harm if taken in high doses or for a prolonged period of time. Dietary supplements containing vitamins A, C, E and K can cause serious harm to the body if taken in high doses. Consuming these in high doses can result in loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, skin rash and other such severe side-effects.
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