Ever wondered whether you could benefit from taking a health supplement? Well, according to the Health Supplements Information Service (HSIS), althoug h there is no substitute for a healthy diet, there are certain groups of people who may be helped by extra vitamins and minerals. To establish whether you fall into one of these groups, the HSIS has put together a list of when and why you may benefit from taking a supplement:

Pre-conceptual and pregnant women
Scientific evidence shows that taking a folic acid supplement at pre-conception and during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy can significantly reduce the incidence of neural tube defects in the foetus, such as spina bifida.

Vegetarians and Vegans
Those on vegetarian or vegan diets can benefit from supplementation of vitamin B12, vitamin D, calcium, iron and zinc. as these are normally found in highest concentrations in meat, offal and meat based products (althoug h some low level vegetable sources do exist, mainly root vegetables and cruciferous vegetable groups)

Smokers
Each cigarette smoked depletes some vitamin C. Studies indicate that smokers require double the amount of vitamin C compared to non-smokers. In France and Canada higher recommended daily allowances IRDAs) have been established for smokers.

Athletes
When undertaking a rigorous exercise routine, it may be useful to increase the intake of antioxidants (beta-carotene, bioflavonoids, vitamin C and E) as there is an increased production of free radicals in the body. Antioxidants neutralise potentially damaging free radicals. Athletes also need to consume adequate amounts of minerals, such as calcium, for healthy bones.

The elderly
The over 65s are less efficient at absorbing essential vitamins and minerals, which can result in the immune response being compromised. Supplements of vitamin B12, C and E can therefore be helpful.

Menopausal women
The menopause causes changes in hormonal balance which in turn can reduce stores of vitamin B6 and inhibit the production of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) from linoleic acid, which is why supplements of GLA and B6 are often used to combat symptoms.

Young children
Children can go throug h 'fussy eating' periods when they may not receive all the nutrients they need. A multivitamin specially aimed at children can be beneficial at these times.

Convalescents
Convalescents are less likely to be eating a balanced diet and since they may also need extra help to aid recovery, health supplementation can be beneficial. The average number of days of illness in long term patients was shown to be reduced by 50% in a year when given a multivitamin supplement.

People with busy or stressful lives
Busy lives can lead to skipped meals. It may be difficult to always eat the recommended five daily portions of fruit and vegetables. A daily multivitamin can help ensure essential nutrients are provided at these times.

Women
One in three women suffer from osteoporosis in later years. As well as a diet containing calcium-rich foods, supplements of vitamin D, calcium and other minerals are beneficial in maintaining bones.

Slimmers on diets of less than 1500 kcals/day may require additional vitamins and minerals and may benefit from a high srength multi vitamin & mineral formulation to underpin and help balance their dietary regime.

As vitamins and minerals work in synergy, taking a multivitamin and mineral supplement in addition to isolated nutrients is recommended. Supplementing individual nutrients long term (unless correcting a known deficiency) may result in biochemical imbalances.