What should you look out for when it comes to dietary supplements
?
The range of dietary supplements is vast: individual vitamins and minerals in high doses, combination preparations with a wealthingredients, or products specifically tailored to meet certain needs. But how can one tell what determines the quality of a dietary supplement?
High-dose individual nutrients – why more isn’t necessarily better
In order to give consumers a clear idea of how much of a specific nutrient is contained in a food supplement, the nutrient reference value – abbreviated to ‘NRV’ – must be stated on every package. This indicates what percentage of the daily requirement for each individual nutrient is met by this product: This means, for example, that 100 per cent NRV of vitamin B1 covers the average daily requirement for an adult.
On the shelves, you’ll find products with a wide variety of dosages. For instance, certain products cover only part of the recommended daily intake of a nutrient, whilstothers advertise high dosages that far exceed the recommended daily intake. High doses of individual nutrients should generally be avoided. Although nutrients act in accordance with physiological principles and have a wide therapeutic range, even nutrientscan also lead to side effects if very high single doses are administered over too long a period.
Making the most of the synergistic effects of micronutrients
Vitamins, minerals and trace elements do not work in isolation. They work hand in hand: every metabolic reaction is triggered by enzymes. However, for enzymes to function properly, they require various micronutrients, known as co-factors. If one or more of these cofactors is missing, these reactions cannot take place.
Magnesium is a perfect example of this. Everyone knows that magnesium is important for muscle cramps. However, some people wonder why the cramps do not go away despite a high magnesium intake (and that diarrhoea often occurs as a side effect). The problem is that magnesium on its own is not enough! When a nerve impulse reaches a muscle cell, there is a local influx of sodium and an efflux of potassium from the cell. This stimulates the muscle to contract. In order for the muscle to relax again, a pump – which requires magnesium to function – must pump potassium back into the cell and sodium out of the cell. If any one of these three nutrients is missing, the process cannot be completed. If we look at the biochemistry behind this process, it becomes clear why neither magnesium nor potassium makes sense when taken as individual nutrients.
Quality characteristics of high-quality local feed supplements
- Production site:
Does the production process meet the high European standards? This is the only way to rule out contamination and the use of substandard raw materials. - Research:
When it comes to developing truly effective products, the research behind them is absolutely crucial! - Transparency:
Reputable companies must be able to provide comprehensive information about the manufacturer and the product. Safety, purity and careful, research-based development are the top priorities. The ingredients, any additives and quantities must be stated clearly, completely and accurately. - Good advice:
It is always advisable to seek advice from doctors, nutritionists and pharmacists in order to find the best dietary supplement for your individual health needs.
Conclusion
By following a few guidelines, consumers can make an informed decision when choosing a quality-assured dietary supplement that is tailored to their individual health goals. As a general rule, it is best to avoid high-dose single-ingredient preparations, as these cannot guarantee a comprehensive supply of nutrients. Research-backed and carefully formulated multi-ingredient preparations are the best choice.
Targeted health improvement through advanced micronutrient supplements: with our products, this is not a pipe dream, but a tried-and-tested reality.
This might also interest you
All about health
