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What are food supplements? - All about vitamins, minerals & co.

Food supplements (NEM) are products that specifically supplement the diet.supplementnutrition. They provide nutrients such as Vitamins, minerals, trace elements, amino acids or omega-3 fatty acidsthat are important for the body.

Definition: Food supplements explained simply

Food supplements are foods that are intended to supplement the normal diet. They are intended to support a balanced intake of nutrients. They do not replace meals, but can help to supplement the diet in a targeted manner.

Why food supplements are used

Many people take food supplements to ensure that they get enough nutrients. Reasons can be:

  • To support the supply of nutrients: modern foods often contain fewer vitamins and minerals than in the past, for example due to intensive farming or processing.

  • Increased requirement: certain life situations such as sport, pregnancy or an active lifestyle can increase nutrient requirements.

  • General well-being: food supplements can supplement the diet and contribute to the supply of essential nutrients .

Examples of food supplements

  • Vitamins: z. E.g. vitamin D träcontributes to the maintenance of normal bones; vitamin C contributesävitamin C contributes to the normal function of the immune system.

  • Minerals & trace elements: magnesium contributes to normal muscle function; zinc supports normal metabolism.

  • Proteins & amino acids: contribute to the maintenance of muscle mass.

  • Plant extracts: can contribute to nutrient intake as part of a varied diet.

  • Omega-3 fatty acids: contribute to the maintenance of normal heart function.


Note: all effects mentioned correspond to the authorised health claims of the EU. Food supplements do not replace a balanced diet.

Legal basis

In Germany and the EU, food supplements are Foodstuffs. This has the following consequences:

  • Declaration obligation: all ingredients and nutritional information must be clearly labelled on the packaging.

  • Safety: food supplements must not contain any substances that are harmful to health.

  • Advertising: claims must Health claim compliant- i.e. no statements about curing or treating diseases.

Quality and safety

When buying food supplementsQuality is crucial. Pay attention to tested ingredients, transparent labelling and reputable production. High-quality food supplements ensure that the nutrients they contain are available in an amount that the body can absorb.

Conclusion

Food supplements can supplement the diet in a targeted manner and contribute to the supply of important nutrients - especially in times when many foods contain fewer vitamins and minerals than before. They do not replace a balanced dietbut can help to close nutrient gaps.

In our webshop you will find a selection of high-qualityFood supplementsthat contain vitamins, minerals and other valuable ingredients.