To supplement, or not

Dietary supplements in New Zealand are regulated under the Dietary Supplements Regulations 1985, which fall under the Food Act 2014. Additionally, dietary supplements containing ingredients from animals and animal products also need to comply with the Animal Products Act 1999; and all dietary supplements are subject to the Biosecurity Act 1993 which protects our environment, plants, and animals from unwanted pests and diseases.

The range and variety of supplements, and purported uses, available from retailers and online in New Zealand, continues to grow, and for many this adds confusion to whether or not they’re making the right choice. From collagen capsules to multivitamin gummies,  body-building powders to hangover cures, supplements should not be taken lightly.

Do your research
Pundits disagree regularly about all manner of supplements, such as various herbal concoctions, unusual potions, and holistic combinations. For example, one school of thought is that if you’re eating enough colourful vegetables and fruits,and a range of proteins, legumes, and grains, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep, you shouldn’t need  multivitamins or supplements.

Be aware too that an overdose of vitamins such as A, K, D, and E can prove toxic, and that some health and body conditions, such as sickness or a pregnancy may benefit from                       specific supplements.

Research is one of the keys to deciding if supplements are for you or not. Medical professionals may sometimes suggest using them, and so too will well-intentioned friends and family. Personal reviews from real people are insightful and may help to steer you in a particular direction, otherwise look for tried and trusted brands which meet the regulations.

Look at the science behind what you are about to put into or on to your body, and check how it has been tested and what scientific backing it has. Ingredients and quantities should be listed on the various products’ packaging.

Check the ingredients
Many factors apply to checking the ingredients of a supplement or multivitamin, such as looking at what consumable capsules are made of.

Dosage also matters. A long list of vitamins and minerals might mean you are getting lots of nutrients, through one convenient product. Alternatively, you may be getting small dosages that aren’t enough to benefit your body.

Synthetic additives, or excipients, which have no real benefits are added to many formulas to beef them up, prevent production faults, or dilute the active ingredients.

Store them properly
If you do make use of supplements, read the care requirements. Many recommend storing them in dark, dry, and cool places, avoiding rooms that hold moisture, and avoiding shelves within reach of young ones. Keep an eye on expiry dates too.