In this era of the new generation, the rendezvous of health and keeping pace with this ultra-fast world is difficult. The master cylinder of the engine of this body is our food which is the necessity of all the life processes. For carrying out diurnal activities our body requires some wattle and daub, that acquired from food which comprises of micros and macros.  

Vitamins and minerals are considered to be as micronutrients and protein, carbohydrates and fats. Around 7 out of every 10 are scant of vitamins required to drive out life processes, as stated by Times of India and 80% of the population was found with inadequate protein intakes. Most of the people don’t have enough time to devote to preparing and having wholesome meals thus tend to proceed for various supplementations.  

 

The US alone is having a big piece of cake with its supplement industry estimated to the capitol to 37 billion dollars by 2020 and 194.3 billion dollars by 2025. In India the industry for nutraceuticals is booming with great urge especially among young masses but this whole industry is barely regulated by FDA, FSSAI, WHO and other agencies. 

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The most popular dietary supplement categories are outlined below, not in a specific order by size of the industry or top consumption. 

1.Multivitamins 
2. Meal Replacement Drinks 
3. Sports Nutrition Supplements 
4. Calcium  
5. B Vitamins 
6. Vitamin C 
7. Glucosamine and Chondroitin 
8. Homeopathic Medicines 
9. Vitamins D 
10. Fish/Animal Oil 

 

There is always a rage among sports nutritionists and medical practitioners for the pros and cons of the supplements and fortified food versus the counter of whole foods. 

 

Now the main question at the stake is Supplements Versus whole food. For the example being usually in the discussion is, if protein in 500 millilitres of Skimmed milk is compared with a 33gram scoop of whey isolate powder, you will be getting 30 grams of high-quality protein form a scoop which is twice as from milk. Supplements are only meant to supplement an already well-maintained diet not to replace the goodness of whole foods. As you will not be getting all the nutrition from a supplement as they lack in antioxidants which are essential for eyes and other sensitive organs. It all depends on the individual requirements as a moderately active person will not be requiring the hyped and artificially fortified supplements but researchers have proven them for athletes and highly active individuals. At the end of the day if you are consuming already fortified foods such as packaged cereals, juices, milk, etc. along with supplements you will be completely overdosing some vitamins and minerals causing stress on kidneys and liver. 

It all boils down to the personal preference but medical consultancy is a better option. So, it a weapon for some but a waste of money and health for others. 

 

Also read:  The 4  best foods to start the morning with.