By Hugo Elliot
You have probably heard of brands like douglas laboratories selling their vitamins and supplements from stores like Supplement First. There’s a smorgasbord of brands, vitamins, and supplements to choose from when you enter pharmacies and grocery stores!
This has the average consumer wonder if supplements are really worth investing in, and if there are any downsides to taking them. After all, we learn a lot about its benefits, but how about any side effects or disadvantages?
This article will tackle the pros and cons of supplements to keep you informed before you invest in products from douglas labs or other big names.
The Pros of Supplements
- Prevent Diseases
There are many kinds of supplements that may help in preventing certain diseases and medical conditions. For instance, when you take folic acid daily during pregnancy, it reduces the risks f your baby developing birth defects.
Besides preventing diseases, supplements can aid in combatting chronic diseases.
For instance, fish oil supplements can help lower blood pressure and triglycerides, decreasing the risk of heart diseases. Or, chamomile helps in soothing sore throats or upset stomachs, as well as improve on sleep. St. John’s Wort also has reported on how it can assist in improving mild depression.
- Correct Nutrient Deficiency
Nutrient deficiencies may cause medical issues, including anemia, bone fragility, poor immune system, nervous system abnormalities, and more. If ever you are deficient in certain nutrients, supplements can reverse and prevent any effects of medical conditions.
This is important in those who follow certain diets, such as vegans and vegetarians.
- Boost Nutrition
As mentioned, supplements can help boost your nutrition and give you the nutrients you are deficient in. It’s also a bit easier if you are too deficient in certain nutrients and can’t eat too much of them. After all, it might be easier for people to take a supplement instead of eating pounds of leafy greens.
Those who experience decreased appetites or difficulty in chewing can receive the recommended amounts of nutrients a day with supplements without having to eat TOO much.
The Cons of Supplements
- It is NOT a Food Replacement
Supplements should not be used as food replacements as they don’t contain the complex vitamins and nutrients food contain, such as phytochemicals. Such substances are only acquired through food, providing ultimate health benefits.
So when you take supplements, you will still need to maintain a healthy diet and eat your fruits, grains, and vegetables.
- Potential Side Effects
There are a few dietary supplements that may cause side effects, especially if they interact with any prescription medication you take. Side effects may also occur when you take supplements over the recommended dosage, even causing toxicity. That is why you need to speak with your doctor to ensure your medication won’t interfere with your supplements (and vice versa).
Wrapping It Up
While supplements do have their disadvantages, it doesn’t outweigh its benefits. You just have to make sure you invest in supplements from reputable brands and that you take nutrients necessary for your body.
