Factors That Influence Dietary Supplements Consumption

Your body doesn’t always receive all its nutritional needs from your diet alone. This is why, sometimes, dietary supplements are needed to offer that support. In the United States, nearly one in three people is on some type of dietary supplement, and globally, the market has a net worth of $61.20 billion. Certain factors may influence whether or not to take nutritional supplements, including the following. 

1. Age

Every age group requires specific nutrients to aid growth, strengthen the body, and, most importantly, support the immune system in fighting infections. Children fall within the age group with the most nutritional needs and may require supplements to support their daily diet. Their diets should contain vital vitamins and minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and Vitamin C. In adulthood, the focus should be on reducing high energy-packed foods, fatty meats, and certain dairy products. For instance, it is not advisable to consume full-fat milk as an adult, but children are encouraged to drink more.

In older adults, your focus will be on consuming bone-strengthening nutrients to reduce the risks of developing osteoporosis and other related issues. People who fall within this age group are also encouraged to boost their beta carotene and Vitamin A consumption to improve their eyesight. Vitamin D is also needed to prevent excessive muscle degeneration. Sometimes, your nutritional supplement needs may differ from your peers because of age-related health conditions. Your physician or nutritionist can help in that regard.

2. Gender

Women require increased calcium and iron supplements than men. This is primarily due to the role hormones play in the female’s body. The monthly menstrual flow, pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause are crucial times that significantly affect a woman’s body. Moreover, women have an increased risk of developing osteoporosis and arthritis as they age. Out of the 10 million people diagnosed with osteoporosis, data indicates that a little over 80% are adult females. This makes it all the more important to increase calcium and iron intake.

For men, there isn’t too much demand because, by physiology, their bodies have more nutritional stores than women. However, sometimes they need supplements to help the body. There are essential vitamins for men that help in enhancing their overall well-being. The truth is both males and females have specific nutritional needs that can be identified only by a primary care physician. 

3. Medications

While medications are necessary to treat specific health conditions, they may sometimes interfere with the proper functioning of vitamins and minerals in the body. For example, if you’re on laxatives, you may want to halt your vitamin intake as the former impacts the latter. Again, if you take anticonvulsants, it is recommended to avoid folate supplements because absorption would be poor. According to physicians, many over-the-counter drugs influence your body’s nutritional supplement needs. Therefore, the best option is to hold on until you complete the medications.

The best option is to seek medical advice before consuming any supplements. It is better to err on the side of caution than take things for granted.