Getting More from Vitamins and Minerals

摘要

Of the many nutraceuticals that fortify functional foods and dietary supplements, vitamins and minerals boast both a long history of usage and government dietary recommendations. Past research has proven the necessity of specific vitamins and minerals in human nutrition. Consequently, it is no surprise that half of all American adults take vitamin or mineral supplements each day, according to a 2000 national public opinion survey by the American Dietetic Association (ADA). Available not only as multivitamins and individual supplements, vitamins and minerals also fortify a multitude of products, from infant formulas and children's snacks to beverages and meal replacements. Vitamin and mineral supplementation is even being tailored to individual needs. For example, Nutrophy, a Florida-based company, has its customers fill out an online questionnaire at www.nutrophy.com. Based on their answers, the company recommends a supplement regimen based on their unique profile.