Supplements 101: The Basic Types of Dietary Supplements

April 15, 2020

There is a wide range of supplements available in both physical and online markets nowadays. You will be overwhelmed by the vast variety of it when you visit a store or browse a catalog.

In this blog article, you will know the different types of supplements and their key functions for your body.

The Basic Types of Supplements

1. Nutrients

Nutrients or nutritional supplements may include any diverse products like food substances that contain disease-fighting properties. Some nutritional supplements are substances that can be found in the body and can be recreated synthetically in a laboratory. Nutritional supplements may also contain phytochemicals or compounds found in fruits and vegetables such as carotenoids and flavonoids.

Examples of Nutritional Supplements

- Fish Oils (a rich source of essential fatty acids, especially Omega-3)

- SAMe (an amino acid that help regulate key functions of all human cells)

- Glucosamine (an amino sugar that helps joint functions and repair)

2. Vitamins

Vitamins are chemically organic substances that is essential in the regulation of biochemical processes and metabolic functions of the body which can help release energy from food. There are vitamins that contain antioxidant properties which can help protect your cells and tissues from damage caused by free radicals. There are 15 known vitamins and are categorised into two, the fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K) and water-soluble vitamins (B vitamins and C).

Examples of Vitamins

- Vitamin C (an antioxidant that boosts immunity and protect cells from free radicals)

- Vitamin D (helps absorb calcium for stronger teeth and bone health)

- Vitamin E (an antioxidant that helps promote skin, heart and cognitive health)

3. Minerals

Minerals are inorganic substances that are necessary for a wide range of vital processes in your body. They can be found in your body in small amounts so it is essential to get your daily needs of minerals from the food that you eat or from supplements since minerals are necessary for bone formation and normal functioning of your bodily organs. Our body contains more than 50 different minerals but only 22 are considered essential (macro-minerals and microminerals).

Examples of Mineral Supplements

- Calcium (required for vital cellular function and essential for bone health)

- Magnesium (helps with muscle and nerve function and regulates blood pressure)

- Potassium (promotes brain and heart health and help regulates bodily fluids)

4. Herbs

Herbal supplements are derived from various parts of plants, where leaves, stems, buds, roots, and flowers can be used either in their natural form or refined into capsules, powders, tablets and other formulations. Herbal supplements contain active compounds that can produce therapeutic effects which may treat chronic or mild health problems. Moreover, herbal supplements can help maintain good health.

Examples of Herbal Supplements

- Echinacea (used to help fight flu and colds and control blood sugar)

- Green Tea (contains antioxidants and essential nutrients to promote health)

- Evening Primrose (provide premenstrual support, increase fertility and support general health)

Dietary supplements such as vitamins, minerals and herbs may provide substantial benefits but it should be taken with extra care to avoid overdose, misuse and side effects. We suggest consulting your healthcare professional when your planning to take any supplements.

Disclaimer: The vitamin health information published on this web page is solely intended for educational purposes. VitaminsOnly strongly recommends to consult health care professionals for any questions concerning your health.