What is a supplement in the context of nutrition?

In the context of nutrition, a supplement refers to a pill, powder, or liquid that provides nutrients that may be missing or insufficient in a person's diet. These nutrients can include vitamins, minerals, amino acids, fatty acids, and other beneficial substances. Supplements are often used to enhance nutritional intake and support overall health, particularly when dietary sources alone are inadequate.

This understanding differentiates the concept of a supplement from other dietary elements, such as meal replacements, which are designed to provide a complete range of nutrients intended to substitute for a regular meal, or foods that are particularly high in calories, which do not necessarily focus on enhancing nutrient intake alone. Additionally, while compounds found in fruits and vegetables contribute to a healthy diet, they do not fit the definition of a supplement, as they are whole food sources rather than concentrated nutrient forms designed to fill specific dietary gaps.