The Difference Between Vitamins and Dietary Supplements: An Expert's Perspective

Vitamins are just one type of supplement but there are many other types available on the market today. Learn more about the difference between vitamins & dietary supplements from an expert's perspective.

The Difference Between Vitamins and Dietary Supplements: An Expert's Perspective

Vitamins are a type of supplement, but they are not the only type. Other types of supplements include minerals, herbs, or nutrients such as fiber. Many adults and children in the United States take one or more vitamins or other dietary supplements to bridge the gap between unusual dietary intake and nutrient requirements. In addition to vitamins, dietary supplements may contain minerals, herbs or other botanical ingredients, amino acids, enzymes, and many other ingredients.Dietary supplements come in a variety of forms, including tablets, capsules, gummies and powders, as well as energy drinks and bars.

Popular supplements include vitamins D and B12; minerals such as calcium and iron; herbs such as echinacea and garlic; and products such as glucosamine, probiotics and fish oils. It is also not recommended to take supplements instead of following a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, healthy fats and other foods with a nutritional impact. If the FDA believes that a dietary supplement is unsafe, it can recall the product from the market or ask the manufacturer to voluntarily recall it.Some examples of supplements—and there are thousands of them, and some of them have different names depending on the manufacturer—include berberine, fish oil, echinacea, chromium, magnesium, ginkgo, zinc, cayenne, milk thistle and valerian. While all vitamins (organic in nature) can also be taken as supplements, not all supplements are vitamins.

The Federal Trade Commission requires that information about a supplement be truthful and not misleading. Supplement companies must have proof that their products are safe and that the claims on the label are truthful and not misleading.Be careful when giving supplements to a child unless recommended by your healthcare provider. While there are commonalities between them, some people believe that vitamins and supplements are inherently different. The main function of a supplement is to help bridge the gap between unusual dietary intake and nutrient requirements.

Some supplements may increase the risk of bleeding or change the response to anesthesia if taken before surgery.If you think you've had an adverse reaction to a dietary supplement, tell your healthcare provider. Dietary supplements or supplements are different components such as vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids, enzymes etc.It is important to remember that while taking dietary supplements can be beneficial for some people in certain situations, it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any supplement. They can help you determine if a supplement is right for you and if so which one is best for your needs.In conclusion, vitamins are just one type of supplement but there are many other types available on the market today. It is important to understand the difference between vitamins and other dietary supplements so that you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.