nutritionals

Nutritionals are a broad term used to describe products intended to supplement the diet with nutrients or other substances that may support health. They include dietary supplements such as vitamins and minerals, protein powders and amino acids, essential fatty acids, fiber supplements, and fortified foods or nutraceuticals. Nutritionals are designed to complement, not replace, a varied and balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.

Common examples include multivitamin–mineral preparations; single-nutrient supplements such as vitamin D, iron, or calcium; omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA); protein powders; probiotics; and fiber supplements. Sports-related nutritionals also use products like creatine, branched-chain amino acids, and collagen. Fortified foods add nutrients such as calcium or vitamin D to everyday foods.

Regulation and safety: oversight varies by country. In many places dietary supplements are regulated differently from medicines, with labeling that may state nutrient content and approved claims but not disease treatment claims. Manufacturers are responsible for product safety and accurate labeling; quality programs or third-party testing exist in some markets. Consumers should consider potency, interactions with medications, preexisting conditions, and potential contaminants.

Efficacy and use: evidence supports benefits mainly in nutrient-deficient individuals or specific groups (pregnant people, infants, older adults) and for certain conditions. For healthy people, benefits are often modest and not well established. High doses can cause adverse effects. People should consult healthcare providers before starting new nutritionals, especially during pregnancy, with chronic disease, or when taking medications.