Navigating the World of Dietary Supplements: Helpful or Harmful?

In today's world, there's a wide array of opinions regarding the consumption of dietary supplements. Some suggest avoiding them entirely, while others argue for their importance. Had we lived a hundred years ago, when our environment was less polluted, we might have sufficed with food rich in minerals and vitamins. However, today's reality is vastly different from past generations: the soils worldwide are mineral-poor. Additional toxins have been introduced through pesticides, fertilizers, preservatives, and artificial additives in food. The processing of food has left it nutrient-deficient. Added to this are radiation in our homes and outside, chemical medications, constant stress, and air and water pollution. Therefore, maintaining our health and supplementing with external nutrients is a necessity.

The benefits of taking dietary supplements today generally outweigh the risks. Naturally, combining them with professional advice is crucial. I've compiled some key points about supplementation based on my field experience. These recommendations do not replace personalized and professional advice from a naturopath or certified nutritionist:

1. Natural Multivitamin and Mineral - It's advisable for everyone to routinely consume this supplement with a significant dose of B vitamins included (you can take a break on Fridays and Shabbat). You can switch between different brands from time to time. Every multivitamin capsule always contains the full spectrum of B vitamins (sometimes labeled as B50 or BX), so there's no need to take both a multivitamin and BX. Vitamin B12 - should be taken separately only if chronically deficient. It is preferable to consume a multivitamin with meals. Children need it too.

2. Vitamin C - It's recommended for everyone in the dosage that suits them (those with stomach acidity should take ester C). Breastfeeding infants get it from their mother's milk, so it's good for mothers to take Vitamin C regularly. Non-breastfeeding infants can benefit from a liquid supplement that can be added to formula. Kids can have chewable tablets and older individuals can swallow tablets. You can occasionally take breaks and switch brands. It's best taken in the morning on an empty stomach before meals, and if anemia is present, a quality iron supplement (preferably from vegetable juices) should be taken with it in the morning for very effective results.

3. Omega 3 - Can be sourced from sea fish, flax oil, or chia seeds. It is definitely beneficial for children with attention and focus issues, adults with nervous system problems, or the elderly, to take higher dosages. It should be taken with meals.

4. Vitamin D – It's recommended to take it in liquid form regularly. Fifteen minutes of daily sun exposure will provide your daily dose, provided you don't live in a polluted area. It's best taken with meals.

5. Additional supplements like calcium, magnesium, iodine, etc., should be considered based on personal advice only.

For free home seminar bookings with Naturopath Ruth Liat Pelz, call 073-2221290