Why Take a Multi-Nutrient?

Feb 2 2008 by Hannah Davies, The Journal

IN an integrated, whole body approach to well-being, taking a multi-nutrient could provide comprehensive support to increased health, a stronger immune system, improved performance goals and happiness.

Why are Vitamins and Minerals important?

We all need a wide range of vitamins and minerals in the diet. Without them the body would not be able to perform all the many functions so efficiently. They are involved in chemical reactions like breaking down food in digestion, building up tissue for growth and healing wounds for protection. This concept is already firmly established, but we are often sceptical about the nutritional supplement industry. There is no doubt that before you begin any supplementation there are many factors to consider. As usual the key is quality.

Critically Analyse the RDAs

Recommended Daily Allowances (RDAs) are there to prevent major nutritional deficiencies and are based on requirements in general. Therefore on an individual level, you need to eat in accordance to your specific requirements. It is not practical to make a calculation for each meal to find out the exact amount of Vitamin A, E, K etc you eat. You just need to appreciate that your requirements may be different to the RDA.

Reasons For Multi-Nutrient Supplementation

The following will dramatically impact on the nutrient quality of the food we eat:

• Distance travelled.

• How long before you eat it has it been picked or prepared?

• Soils are farmed to such a degree that they are typically low in magnesium.

• Processed foods will scarcely provide you what you need.

Further Factors:

• Comprehensive support provided by a multi-nutrient will help ensure immune system strength (back-up).

• Due to the busy lives we lead, we will occasionally fall short of an adequate nutritional intake.

• Extra support against environmental factors such as increased exposure to pollution and toxins, bacteria, viruses, disease and other stresses.

Quality Multi-Nutrient

The key word is quality. Look out for:

• The company should have high standards of quality control and manufacturing processes.

• Look at the quality of ‘multi-level’ company products.

• The ingredients should all be natural forms. For example, minerals should be in the form of albion amino acid chelates for biological availability to your body.

• Free from allergens and additives.

• As with most things, you get what you pay for.

With this and last month’s article in mind, nutritional supplementation should be seen as part of an integrated approach to your optimal health and happiness. It is not a substitute.

• Functional Trainer provides Personal Training and the BioSignature Technique for a Holistic approach to Health and Performance: 07792 761324, or jackwwalton@hotmail.com