Whilst the answer to this is often yes, it is not as straightforward as it might seem. Let’s understand why.
The supplementation industry has been skyrocketing since 2014, with more people than ever buying into the ideology of needing to supplement most vitamins and minerals. But do we really needs supplements?
Research has shown that many people are taking certain supplements unnecessarily. In Australia, there are some vitamins and minerals that are found to be frequently low across the population. These include; iron, vitamin D, vitamin B12, calcium, vitamin A and magnesium.
Let’s hone in on vitamin D, the “sunshine vitamin”. Research from Curtin University has shown that up to 95 per cent of Australians have a low intake. Our bodies are very clever in that we can also manufacture vitamin D in our skin when it is exposed to sunlight. However, despite this, and also because we have rightly become conscious of avoiding sun exposure, up to 25 per cent of Australian adults are vitamin D deficient. This can lead to potentially serious implications for both our physical and psychological health especially as we move out of summer and closer to winter.
Vitamin D plays a key role in the absorption of calcium in the body, meaning the biggest issue with low levels over time, is that it puts our bone health at considerable risk. Other effects of vitamin D deficiency are low mood, feelings of fatigue, joint and muscle pain and muscle weakness.
Regular supplementation isn’t necessary for everybody. Your GP can assist you by discussing the benefits and risks of dietary supplements, organise investigations to see if certain supplements may help you, and direct you where to go for high-quality information.
