The debate about whether the average diet needs to be supplemented with vitamins and minerals is a heated one. Many nutritionists feel that people who are exposed to the following, need extra back-up by taking vitamins and mineral supplements.
- A diet that is nutritionally poor because it is made up mainly of convenience/processed foods.
- Experiencing high levels of all-around stress
- On a daily basis exposed to pollutants and toxic chemicals.
As is so often the debate/case with complex and emotive issues- the reality of the issue would seem to rest somewhere between these two opposing views. For people who live a hectic life and unable to eat healthy, taking nutritional supplements would seem to be an appropriate course of action.
On the other hand, those who practice a balanced life may get by very well without help from additional nutritional supplements.
Those who:
- Eating, at least five portions of organic fruits and vegetables a day.
- Eat nutritionally sound food on a regular basis.
- Have enough time to relax.
- Exercise regularly.
- Fight off minor infections without complications.
- Feel generally very positive about their lives.
- A period of acute emotional stress or shock such as coping with bereavement, unexpected redundancy (loss of job) or the break-up of a relationship
- Physical stress and unusual emotional pressure resulting from working unusually long hours for an extended period of time
- Pregnancy and giving birth
- Menopause
- A protracted (prolonged) of severe viral illness