Ask the Expert Archive Week 3
Vitamins and minerals are good for us. And if the amounts we get in our food are good, then taking concentrated doses in a pill must be even better, right?
Depends. Here's registered dietician Liz Pearson with what you need to know about supplements. If you take a vitamin or mineral supplement you're not alone, about half of Canadians do. There are some things you should be aware of. First of all remember that there are certain nutrients that can be toxic in large doses such as vitamin D, iron, zinc and selenium. Also remember that too much of one nutrient can interfere with the absorption of another. Too much zinc, for example, can interfere with the absorption of iron or copper. There are some times however when taking a vitamin or mineral supplement is a good idea. Strict vegetarians should take a vitamin b-12 supplement. If you're thinking about getting pregnant, folic acid will help prevent certain birth defects. Once you are pregnant a prenatal supplement is a good idea. If you're over the age of sixty a multi-vitamin is a very good idea. There is also some preliminary evidence that vitamin E may be beneficial for reducing the risk of heart disease. Always remember to consult a dietician to determine if you need a vitamin/mineral supplement and how much you should take. And always remember a vitamin or mineral supplelenmt can never take the place of food. Food contains a complex mix of compounds that have never even been put into a pill because until recently scientists haven't even known they existed.
 |
||
|
© TVOntario, 2003 Disclaimer |
||
|
This
website contains general information on the stories featured on Your Health.
Although it’s our goal to provide comprehensive information on health
and medical issues, please be advised that we cannot provide individual
medical advice on specific health problems.
|
© TVOntario, 2000