膳食補充劑適合哪類人？

To maintain good health and improve overall well-being, many people frequently take nutritional supplements. However, what exactly...Dietary supplementsWhat are they? Who should take them? Will dietary supplements become an indispensable nutritional supplement for modern people?

What are dietary supplements?

Dietary supplements, also known as dietary or nutritional supplements, refer to supplements containing various vitamins.MineralsNutritional supplements, in pills, capsules, tablets, powders, or liquids, contain fatty acids, phytochemicals, or antioxidants, and are designed to enrich or supplement our diets to ensure we get the nutrients we need. For modern dietary habits and for some groups that may be at risk of malnutrition, there are indeed good reasons to take nutritional supplements.

Why are dietary supplements important?

In a 2004 study, researchers examined nutritional data on 43 different types of fruits and vegetables grown between 1950 and 1999, finding a “reliable decline” in protein, calcium, phosphorus, iron, riboflavin, and vitamin C. Researchers attributed this loss to modern agricultural practices that prioritize greater return on investment and yield over nutritional value. This doesn't mean fruits and vegetables have no nutritional value at all, but rather that their nutritional content has decreased over the past few decades, meaning that meeting our nutritional needs solely through food may become more difficult.

Several studies conducted in Europe have shown that nutritional intake is low across different genders and age groups. This research also helps identify different populations at risk of low intake.

Furthermore, our lifestyle choices and environment can also affect our ability to absorb and maintain optimal nutrient levels. For example, alcohol consumption depletes B vitamins, vitamin C, various minerals, and antioxidants, while pollution, toxins, and smoking lower our antioxidant levels.

Who should take dietary supplements?

While many people can benefit from taking dietary supplements, some should consider doing so if they are not already taking them. It is best to consult a doctor before taking any dietary supplements.

Vegetarians: Vitamin B-12 is essential for the production of red blood cells and normal brain function. Vegetarians may be deficient in vitamin B-12 because it is not a vitamin we produce naturally, but rather comes from animals. Vegetarians should pay attention to B-12 supplementation and try to consume fortified foods containing B-12, such as fortified nut milk, cereals, and nutritional yeast tablets.
People over 50: After age 50, it becomes difficult for people to absorb vitamin B-12. Vitamin D and folic acid are also important, especially for women. Those over 50 should be mindful of taking a multivitamin daily, ensuring it includes these vitamins.
Women of childbearing age, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers: Folic acid and iron are two essential vitamins for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. Folic acid is crucial for children's growth, and doctors sometimes prescribe folic acid supplements for pregnant women. Folic acid helps with the development of the neural tube in infants. Women are also at higher risk of iron deficiency than men because women require more iron. Iron is an essential element for blood development, and low iron levels can lead to severe fatigue and muscle weakness.
Children under five years old: Children need plenty of vitamins A, C, and D for normal development. While a balanced diet can usually provide these nutrients, children are often picky eaters, making them more prone to deficiencies in their nutrient intake.
People who lack sunlight: Most people do not get enough sunlight.Vitamin DWe get our vitamin D from sunlight, but even people living in sunny areas face risks with modern lifestyles because many of us spend a lot of time indoors.

Please consult your doctor immediately to determine which supplement is appropriate for your gender and age to help you achieve optimal health.