Are dietary supplements such as vitamins and minerals important in maintaining a healthy diet?
Dietary supplements have been prescribed by physicians to correct nutrient deficiencies diagnosed. However, it has not been established that large amounts of vitamins and minerals as dietary supplements will help prevent or treat health problems or slow the aging process. Daily multivitamin tablets may be beneficial to some people, but the value of the supplement is dependent on many factors, including eating habits and overall health. While some supplements only contain some of the identified nutrients important to health, a well-balanced diet provides all the necessary nutrients. Large amounts of some supplements may actually upset the natural balance of nutrients that the body maintains. If you have illnesses such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or arthritis, you should check with your doctor before taking any over-the-counter dietary supplements.