Why Supplement? Good Nutrition for Optimal Health
Many of us know someone who starts making healthy lifestyle changes after a health scare or a diagnosis. They start eating better, exercising more, and using supplements—but what if we could prevent those health problems before they even begin? The reality is that many chronic medical conditions don’t appear overnight. They develop gradually over years of poor diet, stress, lack of exercise, and exposure to environmental toxins.
Optimal Health vs. Average Health
When we think of health, most of us picture being “healthy enough” to avoid frequent doctor visits, but optimal health is about much more than just feeling okay. The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines optimal health as “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease or infirmity” (WHO, 1946).
In Australia and New Zealand, life expectancy is higher than ever, but longevity doesn’t always equate to better health. Chronic diseases are on the rise, and more people are living with long-term conditions that reduce quality of life. It’s time to shift the focus to optimal health, and one of the most effective ways to achieve that is through good nutrition.
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Good Nutrition for Optimal Health
Good nutrition plays a vital role in determining our state of health and our susceptibility to chronic diseases. The science of nutritional medicine focuses on the dietary choices and nutrients that can support optimal health, especially as we age.
With our fast-paced lifestyles and the temptation of quick, processed food, it’s hard to always make the healthiest food choices. According to data from the National Health Survey (2009), less than 10% of Australians consume the recommended daily servings of vegetables, and more than half don’t get enough fruits. The result? Nutrient gaps that lead to deficiencies, poor health, and a higher risk of disease.
Even with a healthy diet, it’s often hard to get the full spectrum of nutrients our bodies need. A scientific review published in JAMA (2002) found that many people do not consume enough vitamins and minerals through food alone. Increasing evidence shows that supplementation can be beneficial for everyone, especially those who may not be getting all of their nutrients from food.
The Science of Nutritional Supplementation
A large body of research highlights the role of nutritional supplements in supporting preventative health and disease management. Studies show that about 75% of Australians use supplements like multivitamins, minerals, and herbs to maintain or restore their health (Roy Morgan Research, 2008). In New Zealand, multivitamins are the most common supplement, with 17% of adults also regularly using garlic and other supplements.
Why You Need Nutritional Supplements
Despite our best efforts, modern diets often fall short. A balanced diet may not always provide the nutrients necessary for optimal health, especially when considering nutrient depletion in soil and the rise of processed foods. As a result, nutritional deficiencies are widespread and may lead to chronic diseases.
Take vitamin D, for example. It’s essential for bone health and immune function, yet many people don’t get enough, especially those who live in areas with limited sunlight. Or consider omega-3 fatty acids—these heart-healthy fats are often lacking in our diets, but supplementation has been shown to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.
The Importance of Antioxidants and Preventative Health
As we age, oxidative stress from free radicals increases. Free radicals are highly reactive molecules that damage cells, contributing to the aging process and the development of chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. The body produces free radicals as a byproduct of normal metabolism, but environmental factors like pollution, smoking, stress, and even over-exercising increase their numbers.
The good news is that antioxidants, found in foods like fruits, vegetables, and high-quality supplements, can help neutralise free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and supporting long-term health. A diet rich in antioxidants can significantly lower the risk of these diseases, protecting your cells and supporting optimal health.
Cellular Nutrition: The Key to Optimal Health
The key to achieving optimal health is at the cellular level. Our cells require a balanced mix of vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients to perform at their best. A well-rounded supplementation plan can help support cellular nutrition—delivering essential nutrients directly to the cells where they are needed.
Unfortunately, many people don’t get enough of the nutrients their cells need. According to surveys, more than half of the population doesn’t consume the recommended servings of fruits and vegetables daily. This is where nutritional supplementation can step in, filling the gaps and supporting optimal cellular function.
Your Path to Better Health: The Role of Supplements
To improve your health and prevent chronic diseases, it’s important to prioritise good nutrition and choose the right supplements. Look for trusted and scientifically-backed supplements that provide a complete range of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and omega-3s. Quality matters when it comes to supplements—ensuring they are bioavailable (easy for your body to absorb) and of the highest purity is crucial to maximising their effectiveness.
Final Thoughts: Take Charge of Your Health Today
Taking care of your health is one of the best investments you can make in yourself. It’s about more than just avoiding sickness—it’s about living with vitality, energy, and the ability to thrive at every age. By focusing on cellular nutrition, supporting your body with high-quality supplements, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle, you can take proactive steps toward achieving optimal health.
Take Action Today
Take control of your health today. Start by researching the benefits of high-quality supplements and choosing those that are scientifically supported to meet your body’s needs. It’s time to give your cells the nutrition they deserve and live your healthiest life!
Disclaimer: The information provided in the article is strictly educational. It may not be used to promote any specific products, nor is it intended as medical advice. For diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions, please consult your health care professional.
References
- World Health Organization (WHO). (1946). Constitution of the World Health Organization. WHO. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/about/governance/constitution
- National Health Survey. (2009). Australia’s Health 2009: The Eleventh Biennial Health Report of the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Retrieved from https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/australias-health/australias-health-2009
- Fletcher, R.H. (2002). Vitamin Supplementation: A Risk Factor for Chronic Disease. Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), 287(22), 3127-3139. Retrieved from https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/193522
- Roy Morgan Research. (2008). Supplement Usage in Australia. Roy Morgan Research. Retrieved from https://www.roymorgan.com/findings
- Maggini, S., et al. (2007). The Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Immune Function. British Journal of Nutrition, 98(Suppl 1), S329-S335. DOI: 10.1017/S0007114507833195
- Block, G., et al. (2007). Vitamin and Mineral Supplements and Chronic Disease Risk. Nutrition Journal, BioMed Central. Retrieved from https://nutritionj.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1475-2891-6-4
- National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC). (2006). Nutrient Reference Values for Australia and New Zealand. NHMRC. Retrieved from https://www.nhmrc.gov.au/about-us/publications/nutrient-reference-values-australia-and-new-zealand
- Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). (2004). Soil Fertility and Nutrient Management for Sustainable Agriculture. FAO. Retrieved from http://www.fao.org/3/a-y5730e.pdf
- Colgan, M. (2006). The New Nutrition: Medicine for the Millennium. Wiley.
- US Department of Agriculture (USDA). (2020). The Role of Antioxidants in Disease Prevention. USDA National Agricultural Library. Retrieved from https://www.nal.usda.gov/
- Foodmatters. (2009). Foodmatters: The Science Behind Nutrition and Health. Documentary film.
- McNamara, R. (2002). Medical Resource Manual for Dietary Supplementation. Available through Medical Textbook Publishers.
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