THE food supplements constitute a remedy for people prone to nutritional deficiencies, reduced immunity, fatigue, hair loss, and their consumption is often increasing at the start of winter. Some supplements also tout their ability to boost brain function, improve the appearance of the skin and soothe the digestive system.
However, food supplements are not a miracle solution and very often, the results are far from the promises. Not to mention the potential side effects.
Food supplements do not exempt you from having a balanced diet. Nutrients are found above all on our plates. However, they can be a weapon to accompany your diet, hence their name “supplement”. It is important to ask the advice of your doctor before starting treatment. The dangers of food supplements are rarely mentioned. The information leaflet is sometimes limited and rarely mentions the risks of side effects. They can also interact with certain medications. Your medical background must therefore be taken into account.
Of the American nutritionists interviewed by our colleagues from SheFinds alert us precisely to three food supplements: supplements believed to detoxify the colon, improve heart health and melt fat. Experts point out that the best way to take care of your body is to adopt a balanced diet with the right nutrients. Preview.
So-called “detox” food supplements for the colon
Some dietary supplements are sold to improve gut health with properties laxatives. “ If you want to improve your intestinal health, you might think that focusing on food supplements capable of ‘cleansing the colon’ is a good idea. However, these types of supplements are often ineffectivesupports Catherine Gervacio, dietitian-nutritionist. They claim to detoxify the colon and promote regularity of bowel movements. However, there is little scientific evidence to support their effectiveness “.
There are safer alternatives to help you. We know that the body does not need cures or “detox” products to cleanse or regenerate itself. If you maintain a balanced diet, your digestive system will detoxify itself over time.
“ It’s better to focus on a diet rich in fiberstay hydrated and engage in regular physical activity to promote healthy digestion », recommends Catherine Gervacio.
Garlic supplements
Some food supplements claim to promote a healthier heart. And in particular those based ongarlic. Mary Sabat, American dietitian believes that it is not a supplement that will improve your heart health, but your lifestyle.
“Garlic is traditionally associated with cardiovascular benefits, such as lowering blood pressure and reducing cholesterol levelsshe notes. However, the evidence supporting these claims is inconsistent and generally weak. While some small studies suggest potential benefits, larger, more rigorous studies have failed to demonstrate significant effects of garlic supplements on heart health. “.
Instead of “wasting your money” on dietary supplements, she recommends consuming fresh garlic directly on the plate. “ L’garlic Fresh in your food can provide additional flavor and potential health benefits, but relying solely on supplements may not be effective “.
Clearly, no supplement will have as direct an effect as your diet.
Chromium picolinate
“ THE chromium picolinate is a mineral supplement often marketed as a weight loss aid, but there is little evidence to support this claimwarns Lisa Richards, nutritionist and initiator of the Candida diet (an anti-inflammatory diet beneficial for intestinal health). Chromium is an essential mineral that plays a role in regulating blood sugar levels and insulin sensitivity, but it is not known to have a significant impact on weight loss “.
She adds that some studies have shown that chromium picolinate supplements can cause potential side effectsincluding digestive problems, headaches and skin irritations.
Are you looking to lose weight? Rethink your diet by getting help from a nutritionist if necessary and engage in physical activity. You will be more likely to have visible results rather than relying on dietary supplements.