Dietary Supplements

Definition

Dietary supplements are products taken to supplement the diet and provide nutrients that may not be consumed in sufficient quantities through food alone.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Dietary supplements contain vitamins, minerals, amino acids, enzymes, herbs, and other botanicals. They are intended to supplement the diet and support health by providing elements essential for various bodily functions that might be missing or insufficient in a person’s regular diet.

Benefits

• Can provide essential nutrients that may be missing from the diet
• Support overall health and wellness
• May boost immune health
• Can improve bone health with certain nutrients like calcium and vitamin D
• Help manage certain health conditions when taken as recommended

Examples

• Multivitamins
• Fish oil supplements
• Vitamin D capsules
• Probiotic supplements
• Herbal supplements such as echinacea or ginseng

Additional Information

• sideEffects: Potential side effects include digestive issues, allergic reactions, and interactions with medications. It is important to follow dosage instructions.

Related Terms

• Vitamins
• Minerals
• Herbal Remedies
• Amino Acids
• Nutrient Timing

References

• Dietary Supplements: What You Need to Know
• The Role of Dietary Supplements in Health