More than 50 percent of Americans take some form of diet supplement each day according to North Dakota State University. People may consume these supplements in an effort to improve nutrition and health or simply enhance energy and well-being. While experts caution that most people don't need to consume diet supplements, most agree that supplements can safely be used to complement a healthy eating plan.
Vitamins
Multivitamins represent one of the most widely used type of diet supplement. They combine substances vitamin A, B, C and other nutrients into a single pill, making it easy for people to ensure they've met their daily recommended allowance. While the Iowa State University Extension suggests that most people don't need to consume a daily multivitamin, they do recommend that pregnant women take pre-natal vitamins, and that seniors should look for supplements that limit vitamin A and contain no iron.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends that adults who consume multivitamins look for a brand that provides 100 percent of the daily recommended allowance, or RDA for Vitamins A, C, D and E, as well as a B-complex. They also suggest taking a supplement with 11 or more minerals, as well as an expiration date printed on the bottle to ensure potency.
Minerals
Some people with special health concerns consume mineral supplements to ensure they meet the daily allowance for these minerals. Women with bone loss concerns may take calcium supplements for example, while anemic individuals may require iron supplements. North Dakota State University warns that iron and calcium should never be taken at the same time because each interferes with the other's absorption. Many people also add echinacea or zinc supplements to ward off colds and other illnesses during the winter.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Roughly 37 percent of Americans take some form of omega-3 supplement each day, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Omega-3 is linked to a wide variety of health benefits, including a healthy heart. These supplements may also reduce the effects of allergies on the skin and reduce a number of additional dermatological problems. People consume omega-3 supplements in the form of liquid or pills, both of which may be derived from fish oil, flax seed or other substances.
Herbal Supplements
Herbs include supplements derived from the leaves, stem or flowers of a plant. While herbal supplements have longed played an important role in traditional eastern medicine, many people in Western countries also include herbal remedies as part of their everyday diet. This may include ginseng for memory and attention disorders, or garlic for heart health.
The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine warns that not all herbal supplements are safe. Many herbs remain unregulated, and may contain harmful substances. Talk to your doctor before adding herbal remedies to your diet.
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