Natural food supplements include a wide variety of products. Almost all health food stores carry them, and a number of enlightened drug stores and supermarkets stock them on their shelves as well. In general, natural food supplements are composed of, derived from, or byproducts of foods that provide a multitude of health benefits. In some cases, health benefit claims made by manufacturers are based upon a supplement's use in traditional healing; in other cases, they are based on modern research and development.

Food supplements can be high in certain nutrients, contain active ingredients that aid digestive or metabolic processes, or provide a combination of nutrients and active ingredients. It is important to point out that some unscrupulous manufacturers make false promises. It is therefore vital to be an informed consumer. It is alos necessary to be aware that many conservative "watchdog" organizations point to these few unsubstantiated products and label the whole industry as unreliable. This occurs in spite of the fact that many natural food supplements have been known to work for years; these products are only medically endorsed when the are "discovered" by researchers deemed acceptable by these groups. Such recent discoveries include garlic, aloe vera, fiber, fish oils, and bran - substances that have been used for centuries in many parts of the world.

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PURCHASING NATURAL FOOD SUPPLEMENTS

Food supplements come in every shape and form - tablets, capsules, powders, liquids, jellies, creams, biscuits, wafers, granules, and more. Product packaging depends entirely on the nature of the food supplement's composition. The potency of these products varies. Because they are made up of perishable foods, food derivatives, or food byproducts, their potency may be affected by the length of time they sit on the shelves, or the temperature at which they are kept and stored. If you don't understand how a product is to be used, ask questions or read the available literature on the particular supplement.

If you have never used a natural food supplement, you may be uncomfortable about buying and using one for the first time. This is normal. Keep in mind that once you become familiar with its use and benefits, you won't give the idea of using it a second thought.

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MoonDragon's Health Information: Nutrition Basics: Antioxidants Index

MoonDragon's Nutrition Information Index

MoonDragon's Health Information: Nutrition Basics Index

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MoonDragon's ObGyn Information & Discussion Index by Subject Order

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