Supplements

No single food can ever provide all the nutrients your body needs. That’s why it’s so important to maintain a healthy, balanced and varied diet.

Even then, you might still feel as though you need a little extra help getting the balance right. So on occasion it can be beneficial to take vitamin and mineral supplements.

Remember though, supplements are no substitute for a healthy, balanced diet, so always make sure you’re getting the right variety of healthy foods.

Eating plenty of fruit and vegetables, starchy foods (especially higher fibre varieties) and moderate amounts of dairy products and protein-rich foods such as meat, fish, eggs and lentils should provide you with all the nutrients you normally need.

Remember that you should consult your GP before starting any supplement programme; some micronutrients, such as fat soluble vitamins A and D and iron can be harmful when taken in excess.

Who needs supplements?

Certain groups of people may find they need supplements more than others:

Some people who cover up their skin when they are outside should consider taking 10mcg of vitamin D each day.

Sports people, even though they generally get all the nutrients they need from a healthy balanced diet, may occasionally need extra iron and calcium.

Vegetarians who don’t eat meat should ensure they are getting enough protein, iron, vitamin B12 and selenium from other sources.

People with allergies/food intolerances may need to consider supplementing their diet with nutrients that they may be missing out on by avoiding certain food groups.