A Dietitian's Guide to Supplements
There are many different reasons as to why people may take and benefit from vitamin & mineral supplements. Did you know that, with a proper diagnosis from your primary physician, registered dietitians are now able to prescribe mineral and vitamin supplements? Before you decide to take any type of supplement, it is always best that you consult with your doctor, pharmacist and registered dietitian.
Here’s what you should know.
Not everyone needs supplements
In most cases, supplements are used to fill a nutrient deficiency or to make up for increased needs. While not everyone may need supplements, certain population groups may benefit from taking supplements and/or multivitamins.
For instance, calcium has increasingly become an important nutrient for aging Canadians to help prevent osteoporosis. Seeing that calcium needs increase with age, taking calcium supplements can be a good idea for seniors.
Vegetarians and vegans, for instance, are more susceptible to developing a vitamin B12 deficiency, making them good candidates for Vitamin B12 supplements.
Other groups that can benefit from supplements include pregnant women and people with certain medical conditions.
As a general rule, most healthy individuals do not require supplements to meet their nutritional needs when following the Canadian Food Guide (2019).
Beware of toxicity and interactions with other medicine
While registered dietitians can prescribe mineral and vitamin supplements, a prescription is not required for someone to buy them at your local pharmacy. It’s important to speak with your registered dietitian if you require supplements, as they will know the type, the quantity, the frequency and the form of supplements that you may need.
If you buy supplements without a registered dietitian to guide you, you increase your risks of toxicity and its effects. This is because some minerals and vitamins can only be consumed in overdose when they are taken in the form of a supplement.
In addition, certain supplements can interact with other medications. If you are taking medication, it is invaluable that you speak with your registered dietitian or pharmacist before you decide to take supplements.
Bottom line: consult a registered dietitian.
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