A firm foundation for good health depends on vitamins and minerals, which we can get from our diet or from dietary supplements. Here are two main reasons why we should seriously consider the second resource.

Food is missing many vital nutrients. Food is different today than it was 100 or even 50 years ago. For one thing, the soil on which much of our food is grown is critically depleted of minerals. Also consider that the feed given to livestock raised on factory farms is a far cry from the nutrient-rich grass and grains they dined on in years gone by. Fruits, vegetables, and legumes are assaulted with chemical pesticides and herbicides, and this raw food is further stripped of its nutrient content by high heat and other production methods used during the manufacturing process. It seems that for all the nutrients removed during processing, an equal amount of harmful substances like hydrogenated fats and unbelievable amounts of sodium are added. And honestly, the majority of us seem to like it that way.

The food we eat today simply does not give us all of the vitamins and minerals we need. Yet so many parts of your metabolism depend on vitamins, minerals, and essential fats that you cannot have an optimal metabolism without them.

A huge amount of Australians are deficient in one or more essential vitamins and minerals, and even more Australians are deficient in the essential omega-3 fatty acids. That means almost everyone needs TWO basic supplements to maintain good healthy and an optimal metabolism.

For basic nutritional support, consider taking:

1. A multivitamin and mineral combination

2. An omega-3 fatty acid supplement

ALWAYS CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR OR NUTRITIONIST FOR ADVICE BEFORE TAKING ADDITIONAL DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS!

 
 

Remember, most vitamins and supplements should be taken with food, not on an empty stomach. Here's some tips for easy, healthy breakfasts - and if you take vitamins or supplements, why not take one with breakfast!

  • Fresh fruit with wholegrain breakfast cereal and reduced fat milk. Toast with a thin spread of avocado

  • Toast with cheese and tomato. Hot or cold reduced fat milk.

  • Rolled oats with sultanas and reduced fat milk. Toast with a thin spread of avocado. Orange juice.

  • Baked beans on wholemeal toast. Orange juice.

 
     
 
 
   
 

 

A healthy diet should include a good variety of nutritious foods. These include breads, pastas, fruits and vegetables. Eating breakfast is also an important part of a healthy diet.

In general, we should all eat:

  • A wide variety of nutritious foods

  • Plenty of fruit and vegetables (try to eat every colour of the rainbow)

  • Low salt foods - and use salt sparingly

  • Less processed foods

See our section on nutrition tips, which covers healthy foods in more detail.