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In the quest to live a healthy life, many people turn to products to help them achieve their nutritional goals. In this context, the terms “dietary supplements” and “food supplements” often appear, and although they are sometimes used interchangeably, there are key differences between the two.

To help you along the way, let's talk about the differences, so you can better understand what they are, what they're for, and how they can impact your health.

Food Supplements

What are they?

Dietary supplements are products designed to complement the diet and provide nutrients that may not be consumed in sufficient quantities.

These nutrients include:

• vitamins
• minerals
• amino acids
• fatty acids

and other substances important for health. Supplements come in a variety of forms, including tablets, capsules, powders, and liquids.

Purpose

It could be said that the main goal of dietary supplements is to fill nutritional gaps. For example, a person who does not consume enough vitamin D through diet or sun exposure may benefit from a vitamin D supplement, or similarly, someone with anemia may need an iron supplement.

You should consider that supplements are not designed to replace a balanced diet, but to complement and ensure that the body receives all the essential nutrients it needs to function properly.

Read also: Wake up your Metabolism: Natural Treatment for Hypothyroidism

Guys

Vitamins and Minerals:

They include vitamin C, vitamin D, calcium, iron, magnesium, etc.

Proteins and Amino Acids:

Protein powder supplements, BCAA (branched chain amino acids).

Fatty Acids:

Omega-3

Herbs and Botanical Extracts:

Ginseng, echinacea, green tea extract.

Other Nutrients:

Coenzyme Q10, glucosamine, probiotics.

Food Supplements

When we talk about dietary supplements, we are talking about those products intended to complement the diet in general and not necessarily to correct specific deficiencies.

That is, supplements may include a mix of nutrients, plants, and other ingredients that are considered beneficial to overall health and well-being.

Purpose

As their name suggests, dietary supplements support general health and can help prevent disease. They are primarily used for:

• promote well-being
• improve immune system function
• increase energy
• improve mental and physical health

They are useful for people looking for an extra boost in their daily health, beyond what a balanced diet can provide.

Read also: The 5 best vitamins to combat tiredness and fatigue

Guys

Multivitamins:

Combinations of vitamins and minerals in a single daily dose.
Antioxidants

Supplements containing vitamin E, vitamin C, and other compounds that combat oxidative stress.

Adaptogens:

Plants like ashwagandha and rhodiola that help the body with stress.

Energy Supplements:

Blends of B vitamins, ginseng, and other ingredients that promote energy and vitality.

General Well-being:

Products that contain ingredients such as collagen for healthy skin , nails and hair.

Some Considerations to Take Into Account

1. Consult with a Health Professional

Before you start taking any supplement or dietary supplement, it is crucial to speak with a doctor or nutritionist. They can help you determine if you have specific nutritional deficiencies and recommend the right products for your needs.

2. Product Quality

Not all supplements and dietary supplements are created equal. It is important to choose high-quality products from well-known and trusted brands. Look for products that have been quality tested and contain pure, safe ingredients.

3. Dosage and Safety

Make sure you follow the recommended dosages and do not exceed them. Taking too many supplements or supplements can be harmful and cause side effects. Read labels carefully and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

4. Interactions and Contraindications

Some supplements and add-ons may interact with medications or pre-existing health conditions. Tell your doctor about all the products you are taking to avoid possible negative interactions.

Get informed, learn and make the most of the benefits that these products can offer you and contribute to your general well-being in a safe and effective way.

Sources consulted

Collective, O. (2021, November 2). FOOD SUPPLEMENT VS FOOD SUPPLEMENT. ». FIQA. https://fiqa.com.mx/suplemento-alimenticio-vs-complemento-alimenticio/

Phytogen Medical Foods. (2022, December 5). Differences between food supplements and dietary supplements, what are they? Phytogen Medical Foods. https://phytogenmf.com/differences-between-food-supplements-and-dietary-supplements/

In the quest to live a healthy life, many people turn to products to help them achieve their nutritional goals. In this context, the terms “dietary supplements” and “food supplements” often appear, and although they are sometimes used interchangeably, there are key differences between the two.

To help you along the way, let's talk about the differences, so you can better understand what they are, what they're for, and how they can impact your health.

Food Supplements

What are they?

Dietary supplements are products designed to complement the diet and provide nutrients that may not be consumed in sufficient quantities.

These nutrients include:

• vitamins
• minerals
• amino acids
• fatty acids

and other substances important for health. Supplements come in a variety of forms, including tablets, capsules, powders, and liquids.

Purpose

It could be said that the main goal of dietary supplements is to fill nutritional gaps. For example, a person who does not consume enough vitamin D through diet or sun exposure may benefit from a vitamin D supplement, or similarly, someone with anemia may need an iron supplement.

You should consider that supplements are not designed to replace a balanced diet, but to complement and ensure that the body receives all the essential nutrients it needs to function properly.

Read also: Wake up your Metabolism: Natural Treatment for Hypothyroidism

Guys

Vitamins and Minerals:

They include vitamin C, vitamin D, calcium, iron, magnesium, etc.

Proteins and Amino Acids:

Protein powder supplements, BCAA (branched chain amino acids).

Fatty Acids:

Omega-3

Herbs and Botanical Extracts:

Ginseng, echinacea, green tea extract.

Other Nutrients:

Coenzyme Q10, glucosamine, probiotics.

Food Supplements

When we talk about dietary supplements, we are talking about those products intended to complement the diet in general and not necessarily to correct specific deficiencies.

That is, supplements may include a mix of nutrients, plants, and other ingredients that are considered beneficial to overall health and well-being.

Purpose

As their name suggests, dietary supplements support general health and can help prevent disease. They are primarily used for:

• promote well-being
• improve immune system function
• increase energy
• improve mental and physical health

They are useful for people looking for an extra boost in their daily health, beyond what a balanced diet can provide.

Read also: The 5 best vitamins to combat tiredness and fatigue

Guys

Multivitamins:

Combinations of vitamins and minerals in a single daily dose.
Antioxidants

Supplements containing vitamin E, vitamin C, and other compounds that combat oxidative stress.

Adaptogens:

Plants like ashwagandha and rhodiola that help the body with stress.

Energy Supplements:

Blends of B vitamins, ginseng, and other ingredients that promote energy and vitality.

General Well-being:

Products that contain ingredients such as collagen for healthy skin , nails and hair.

Some Considerations to Take Into Account

1. Consult with a Health Professional

Before you start taking any supplement or dietary supplement, it is crucial to speak with a doctor or nutritionist. They can help you determine if you have specific nutritional deficiencies and recommend the right products for your needs.

2. Product Quality

Not all supplements and dietary supplements are created equal. It is important to choose high-quality products from well-known and trusted brands. Look for products that have been quality tested and contain pure, safe ingredients.

3. Dosage and Safety

Make sure you follow the recommended dosages and do not exceed them. Taking too many supplements or supplements can be harmful and cause side effects. Read labels carefully and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

4. Interactions and Contraindications

Some supplements and add-ons may interact with medications or pre-existing health conditions. Tell your doctor about all the products you are taking to avoid possible negative interactions.

Get informed, learn and make the most of the benefits that these products can offer you and contribute to your general well-being in a safe and effective way.

Sources consulted

Collective, O. (2021, November 2). FOOD SUPPLEMENT VS FOOD SUPPLEMENT. ». FIQA. https://fiqa.com.mx/suplemento-alimenticio-vs-complemento-alimenticio/

Phytogen Medical Foods. (2022, December 5). Differences between food supplements and dietary supplements, what are they? Phytogen Medical Foods. https://phytogenmf.com/differences-between-food-supplements-and-dietary-supplements/