Myth-ical Facts: Nutritional Supplements

Cassbethm
Cassbethm
Jul 21, 2017 · 2 min read

Enter weird neighbor.

He lost 5 pounds last year, so naturally he’s a qualified expert on diet and fitness advice. First thing he tells you? The microwave is killing all the nutrients in your food. Queue the eye roll.

There is no shortage of false information — especially about nutrients and supplementation. How can you differentiate fact from fiction? Well — let’s try it.

Myth: Expiration dates don’t matter.

Fact: Supplements might not spoil, but a products potency could. Using expired vitamins won’t necessarily hurt you, but they definitely don’t benefit you as much.

Fun fact: Once opened, the potency holds up for at least one year.

Myth: Only elderly and kids need to take supplements.

Fact: Although certain stages of life are more crucial than others, anyone at any age can experience the negative impact of poor nutrition.

WBO Welterweight champion Tim Bradley relies on nutritional supplements, especially leading up to a fight.

“I’ve been taking nutritional supplements since 2008, and I have captured five world championships since then. I have the best nutrition in the world and, because of that, I have an advantage when I step foot in the ring since I’m already ahead of the game.”

— Tim Bradley, five-time world champion

Fun fact: 55% of Americans take at least one dietary supplement on occasion.

Myth: If you eat well, you don’t need vitamins

Fact: Even if you’re eating well, that doesn’t mean you’re getting the suggested servings of all vitamins and minerals.

It’s suggested that we eat:

2–3 servings of meat, beans, eggs and nuts

2–3 servings of milk products

2–4 servings of fruit

3–5 servings of veggies

6–11 servings of bread, rice and pasta

Check out this infographic for more supplemental myths and facts.

Does your kitchen countertop look like the supplement aisle at your local market? Good for you! We applaud you. But if you’re looking for a little less clutter, look into getting a large pill organizing ox for your daily supplements. You refill it once a week, like meal prep. Don’t let your neighbor create a life where you’re scare of the microwave, you’ve got this.

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Cassbethm

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This post was contributed by Cassidy McClellan. She is the Online Outreach and Education Specialist for USANA Health Sciences.

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