Can supplements replace a balanced diet?

At present, it is increasingly common to observe people who consume multiple nutritional supplements hoping to improve your Health. Vitamins, minerals, powdered proteins, Omega-3, collagen, herbal extracts and “detox” capsules have become part of the daily routine of many. However, this trend of Nutritional self -medicationpromoted by social media advice, recommendations of mouth and viral content, It can be more harmful than beneficial.

The nutritionist New Zetinagraduated from National Polytechnic Institute (IPN)warns that “supplements should not be used as substitutes for healthy eating. They serve to cover specific deficienciesbut do not replace the integral benefits of a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats. ”

Zetina emphasizes that many people consume these products without knowing if they really need them. “There are those who take has five the six capsules other than day without any professional orientation. They do not know if they are doubling doses of Certain vitamins or if they are even interacting negatively with some medication they take. ”

According to figures from National Institute of Public Healthmore than 56% of those who use supplements do it without previous medical evaluation. Just 5.7% consume them to address real nutritional deficiencies. The rest is looking for it improve your physical performance, lose weight or “feel with more energy”, without considering the possible Side effects or overdations.

In addition, there is a false perception that everything “natural” is safe. Actually, the abuse of supplements It can cause liver damage, kidney problems, hormonal imbalances and other adverse effects. To this is added the low regulation of the sector: many products are sold without approval of health authorities or solid scientific evidence.

In front of this panorama, Yeni Zetina recommends returning to basic: “A balanced diet, planned based on individual needs, is much more effective and safe than any supplement. It is always better to obtain nutrients through food, and if necessary, do so with the accompaniment of a health professional”.

The specialist also clarifies that there are no totally food “Prohibited”as long as you know how to integrate them properly into a healthy eating scheme. “A Sweet bread, a slice of pizza or a hamburger They can have a place within a balanced diet if they are accompanied by enough vegetables, good hydration and physical activity. But this only works when there is consciousness, planning and supervision Professionl”.

The nutrition These are not extreme restrictions or magical solutions in capsules: it is about Sustainable habitsinformed decisions and expert advice.