Nutraceuticals vs. Supplements
With so many health supplements and nutraceuticals available in the market, it can be challenging to understand the differences between them. The words “nutraceuticals” and “supplements” are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct differences. In this article, we'll explore the difference between them, why you should care and how to choose the right one for your needs.
What are Nutraceuticals?
Nutraceuticals are a combination of the words "nutrition" and "pharmaceutical." They are products derived from food sources that provide medical or health benefits, including the prevention and treatment of diseases. Nutraceuticals are typically made from natural ingredients like herbs, vitamins, minerals, and other bioactive compounds that have health benefits beyond basic nutrition. Nutraceuticals have a high “bio-availability” which means that the quality of the ingredients is highly absorbable to the body.
What are Supplements?
Supplements, on the other hand, are products that contain one or more vitamins, minerals, or other nutrients that are intended to supplement the diet. Supplements can be in the form of capsules, tablets, liquids, or powders and they are designed to help people meet their nutritional needs when they can't get enough of a particular nutrient from their diet.
What is the Difference between Nutraceuticals and Supplements?
Although both nutraceuticals and supplements can provide health benefits, there are some fundamental differences between them.
Composition: Nutraceuticals are made with a higher percentage of “bio-availability”. They are often made to absorb into your cells at a higher degree making them much more therapeutic. Supplements found over the counter usually contain synthetic fillers and binders making them less available for the cells in your body to absorb and therefore have a less therapeutic affect.
Function: Nutraceuticals provide therapeutic health benefits that can act as a treatment to a condition or syndrome, while supplements are intended to supplement the diet.
Regulation: Nutraceuticals are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and must meet specific safety and quality standards while dietary supplements do not undergo the same strict regulations as pharmaceutical drugs.
Scientific Evidence: Nutraceuticals have scientific evidence to support their health benefits, while supplements may not have as much scientific evidence to support their claims.
While both can provide health benefits, nutraceuticals may offer more significant benefits due to the bioactive compounds found in natural ingredients.
Why You Should Care About the Difference?
Understanding the difference between nutraceuticals and supplements is essential to ensure that you get the right product for your needs. Choosing the wrong product can be ineffective or even harmful to your health. Here are some reasons why you should care about the difference:
Efficacy: Nutraceuticals often provide more significant health benefits than supplements since they contain bioactive compounds with proven health benefits.
Safety: Nutraceuticals may be safer than supplements since they are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and must meet specific safety and quality standards.
Quality: Nutraceuticals may be of higher quality than supplements since they are subjected to stricter regulations than dietary supplements.
Price: Nutraceuticals may be more expensive than supplements due to the higher quality and scientific evidence that supports their benefits.
How to Choose?
Choosing the right product depends on your individual needs and health goals. In order to make an informed decision, you should:
Consult with a healthcare professional before taking any nutraceutical or supplement. They can help you determine which product is best for your needs and ensure that it is safe for you to take.
Look for nutraceuticals or supplements with scientific evidence to support their health claims. This evidence can help ensure that the product is effective and safe.
Always read the labels carefully and make sure that the product contains the specific nutrient or ingredient that you need. Look for information on dosage, instructions for use, and any potential side effects.
Check the quality of the product by looking for certifications and quality seals, such as Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), USP Verified or NSF International. These certifications indicate that the product has been tested for safety and efficacy.
Consider your dietary needs when choosing a nutraceutical or supplement. For example, if you have a specific dietary restriction, such as a gluten-free or vegan diet, make sure that the product is compatible with your dietary needs.
FAQs:
Are nutraceuticals and supplements safe? Yes, generally, both nutraceuticals and supplements are safe when taken as directed. However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any new supplement or nutraceutical to ensure that it's safe for you.
Can nutraceuticals and supplements be taken together? It depends on the specific products and ingredients. Always consult with a healthcare professional before taking any new supplement or nutraceutical, especially if you're already taking other medications or supplements.
Can nutraceuticals and supplements be harmful? Although nutraceuticals and supplements are generally safe, they can be harmful if taken in excessive amounts or if they interact with other medications or supplements. It's essential to follow the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare professional before taking any new supplement or nutraceutical.
