Supplements

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Supplements

Supplements (/sʌplɪmɛnts/) are substances that are consumed orally, and are mainly used to enhance the nutritional intake in human diet. Supplements can include vitamins, minerals, herbs, meal supplements, sports nutrition products, natural food supplements, and other related products. They are designed to supplement the diet, not replace real food.

Etymology

The term supplement comes from the Latin supplementum, which means 'something added', from suppleō ('I fill up, I complete').

Types of Supplements

There are several types of supplements, including:

  • Vitamin supplements: These are preparations intended to provide vitamins that may not be consumed in sufficient quantities. Vitamins are essential nutrients that are required for the body to function properly.
  • Mineral supplements: These are dietary supplements that contain minerals used by the body for a variety of functions, such as bone health, fluid balance, and muscle function.
  • Herbal supplements: These are dietary supplements that use herbs or botanicals as the main ingredient. They are used to improve health, boost energy, or supplement the diet.
  • Protein supplements: These are dietary supplements that are used to increase protein intake. Protein is an essential nutrient that helps build muscle, repair tissue, and make enzymes and hormones.
  • Omega-3 supplements: These are dietary supplements that contain omega-3 fatty acids, essential fats that have many health benefits.

Related Terms

  • Dietary supplement: A product intended to supplement the diet that contains one or more dietary ingredients (including vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, and other substances) or their constituents.
  • Nutraceutical: A product derived from food sources with extra health benefits in addition to the basic nutritional value found in foods.
  • Multivitamin: A preparation intended to serve as a dietary supplement with vitamins, dietary minerals, and other nutritional elements.
  • Probiotic: Live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your health, especially your digestive system.
  • Prebiotic: Substances that induce the growth or activity of microorganisms (e.g., bacteria and fungi) that contribute to the well-being of their host.

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