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Take a look in any supermarket or high street chemist and you will find a daunting array of vitamin and mineral supplements. The big question is which preparations will do you the most good? Because without doubt you are more than spoiled for choice. To assist you here are some basic guidelines:
1. It is best to take multi-formulas (multiminerals and multivitamins) as a foundation if you are self-prescribing: there is the risk that taking high levels of single supplements can disturb your metabolism or increase the chances of toxicity. This is especially the case with vitamins A and D.
2. Opt for the multi-formulas which provide a broad range of nutrients per tablet/capsule. Always check the labels on multiformula products and aim for the following safe levels of vitamins and minerals:
Vitamin A 7,500 iu Vitamin B1, B2, B6 25-50 mg Vitamin B12 50 mcg Vitamin B3 (Niacin) 50 mg Folic Acid 400 mcg Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic acid) 50 mg Vitamin C 100 mg Vitamin D 200 iu Vitamin E 50 iu Boron 2 mg Chromium 50 mg Copper 0.5 mg Iron 0.5 mg Manganese 0.5 mg Selenium 50 mcg Zinc 10 mg3. Don't be swayed by price, and buy only the cheapest. In the case of supplements the old adage "you get what you pay for" is very true. Prices generally reflect levels of research, preparation and ultimately quality control invested in the product.
4. Never attempt to self-treat health problems with specific vitamin or mineral formulas without first gaining the advice of your family doctor or a qualified nutritionist.
5. Take care when reducing doses. If you are taking regular supplements, and have been doing so for some time, never abruptly stop taking them: gradually reduce your dose and allow your body to adjust gently.
Dr. Sims is the Medical Director of FitStop, the UK's foremost group of health and fitness centers, and an expert on matters relating to fitness of body and mind. Having trained as a GP, he now works full-time in health promotion and has written extensively on the subject, including a monthly medical column in Mensa magazine with the TV psychiatrist, Dr Raj Persaud. Dr. Sims was the original Virgin.Net online doctor.
Article courtesy of MediaPeak, http://www.mediaspeak.com
