supplementering

Suppplementering, or supplementation, is the act of adding something to improve, complete, or strengthen what is incomplete. The term is used across different fields, but it is most commonly associated with nutrition, health, and agriculture.

In nutrition, dietary supplements are products intended to add nutrients that may be missing or insufficient in a person’s diet. These can include vitamins, minerals, amino acids, herbal extracts, and omega-3 fatty acids. Supplements are often used for specific life stages, health conditions, or increased needs—for example, folic acid for pregnancy planning to reduce neural tube defect risk, or vitamin D for individuals with limited sun exposure.

In agriculture, supplementering refers to providing additional nutrients to animal feed to meet recommended dietary requirements. Mineral premixes, protein concentrates, and energy-rich additives are common examples. Proper supplementation aims to support growth, health, reproduction, and production in livestock, especially when forages or base feeds are deficient.

Forms and sources of supplements vary. They can be pills, capsules, powders, liquids, or fortified foods and beverages. Fortified foods are widely used to increase population-level intake of nutrients, such as iodized salt or fortified cereals. The quality and composition of supplements can differ substantially between products and countries.

Effectiveness and safety depend on context. Supplements can prevent or correct specific deficiencies and support health when used appropriately, but they are not a substitute for a balanced diet. Excessive intake or interactions with medications can pose risks. Regulatory oversight and labeling standards differ by jurisdiction, and the evidence base for benefits ranges from strong to limited for many products.