Together, vitamins and supplements make up a massive industry.
In 2018, the combined production of both totaled an astounding $31 billion in the US alone. 2019 was no different, adding over a billion more in revenue.
Why the craze? Because interest in health and well-being is at an all-time high, contributing to the sale and use of both. Most respondents to a survey claimed they took supplements or vitamins to promote good health and general wellness.
This discussion leaves many with one question: What’s the difference between vitamins vs supplements? Which should you take—or not take—and why?
The answer might seem obvious, but we bet if you thought about it for a moment, you’d feel a little perplexed. Keep reading for the major takeaways.
What Are Vitamins?
Vitamins, unlike supplements, are naturally occurring. These organic compounds do one small but mighty thing: sustain our lives.
Also, unlike supplements, vitamins are most often found and ingested through foods. Our body either produces too little of a certain vitamin or maybe doesn’t produce it at all (such as vitamin D). So, eating foods rich in that vitamin is a healthy way to restore some balance.
Because each vitamin serves a different role or purpose, it’s crucial to get enough of each. Our body needs each vitamin, of which there are thirteen, in different amounts. These vitamins are either fat-soluble (stored in fatty tissue and longer-lasting) or water-soluble (quickly absorbed), depending.
If somebody is deficient in one or more vitamins, the best source is typically food. However, in some cases, a doctor will recommend taking supplemental quantities. In that way, a vitamin can be a supplement.
Speaking of which . . . Let’s learn about supplements now.
What Are Supplements?
Supplements are just that—supplemental. They’re there to support your nutrition and diet, complementing it if there are any deficiencies. Supplements are not naturally occurring and may contain multiple vitamins or herbs in one dosage.
That’s why it’s so crucial to make wise purchase decisions regarding supplements. For example, https://supplementor.com/ sells research-based, science-backed products full of nootropics, high-quality vitamins, and bioceuticals.
Supplements come in many forms, such as pills, powder, tinctures, and even things like gummies or drinks.
While all vitamins can be taken supplementally, not all supplements are vitamins. As with both choices, any questions or concerns about taking them should be addressed with your primary care physician.
Vitamins vs Supplements: Now You Know
The more you understand health, nutrition, wellness, and taking care of yourself—the better.
It’s easy to get swept up in new fads, trends, and crazes. That’s one of many reasons it’s important to have a base of knowledge to work from, allowing you to make smart and informed decisions about your body or what you put in it.
Hopefully, this guide taught you a little something about vitamins vs supplements. For more fun facts, continue seeing what we have to offer over on the blog!
