What is a potential benefit of dietary supplements?

Choosing dietary supplements can offer the potential benefit of ensuring adequate nutrient intake when dietary sources are lacking. This is particularly important for individuals who may have difficulty obtaining enough nutrition from food alone, due to various factors such as restrictive diets, medical conditions, or food availability. For example, individuals following a vegan diet might need supplements for nutrients like vitamin B12, which are primarily found in animal products. In such cases, supplements can play a crucial role in helping to meet nutritional needs and prevent deficiencies.

On the other hand, while some might think that dietary supplements can provide all essential nutrients without the need for a balanced diet, this is not advisable because whole foods offer a complex array of nutrients and other beneficial compounds that supplements alone cannot replicate. Additionally, supplements should not be seen as a replacement for whole foods, as they cannot provide the same level of satiety, flavor, and dietary fiber. Finally, while enhancing the tastiness of food can be a beneficial side effect of some supplements, this is not a primary purpose or benefit directly related to nutrition.