Supplements

"Vitamin and mineral supplements exist, but are not as effective as getting minerals from whole foods. There are two types of supplements: whole food supplements and synthetic supplements. Whole food supplements are produced by taking vitamins and minerals straight from natural sources: soil, rocks, or plant and food sources; whereas synthetic minerals are made in a lab. While synthetic mineral supplements mimic the chemical structure of vitamins and minerals, they are probably not exact copies. That means the body may not recognize the synthetic mineral structure and may not absorb the mineral efficiently. No supplements, including vitamins and minerals, are approved by the FDA. Only prescription drugs are approved by the FDA. A healthy balanced diet can provide all the vitamins and minerals needed."