Food supplement or dietary supplement? Clearing up doubts

In the world of nutrition and wellness, it is common to find terms that seem synonymous, but which, in reality, generate confusion. This is the case of food supplements and dietary supplements. Although colloquially they are often used interchangeably, it is important to clarify what each one means and what the difference is according to current regulations, especially in Spain, where regulation plays a crucial role in the terminology and labelling of these products.

What are dietary supplements and food additives?

Maintaining a balanced and healthy diet is essential for our body to function properly. This diet should include a variety of essential nutrients: macronutrients (proteins, carbohydrates and fats), micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) and trace elements in adequate amounts. However, there are situations in which, despite having an adequate diet, the body needs an additional supply of certain nutrients. This is what is known as supplementation.
Supplementation refers to the use of products that provide nutrients in a concentrated and dosed manner, allowing the body to easily absorb them. These products should not replace a healthy diet, but rather complement it, covering specific needs or compensating for deficiencies.

What is the difference between a supplement and a dietary supplement?

Although food supplements are often used to refer to products that provide additional nutrients, Spanish legislation has established that the official term is “food supplement”. That is, for regulatory purposes, both terms refer to the same type of products, but the regulations have decided to unify the name to avoid confusion and establish a clear framework of what these products are and how they should be labelled. According to the law, a food supplement is a product designed to complement the normal diet, providing nutrients or substances with nutritional or physiological effects.

What does Spanish legislation say?

European and Spanish legislation on food regulates that all these products must be called food supplements. The specific regulations establish that these are foods whose purpose is to complement the normal diet and are presented in dosage forms such as capsules, tablets, drops, among others. This implies that, although at a commercial or colloquial level they are referred to as “supplements”, manufacturers must adhere to the terminology of food supplement to comply with the regulation.

What do food supplements provide?

Food supplements can include a wide variety of nutrients and bioactive substances. These include:
Vitamins and minerals: which help cover specific deficiencies and promote overall well-being.
Plant extracts: used for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, adaptogenic properties, among others.
Amino acids: essential for muscle recovery and other bodily functions.
Essential fatty acids: such as omega-3, which promotes cardiovascular health.
Probiotics and prebiotics: which help improve intestinal flora.

Food supplements from LaLuz By Lourdes Moreno

At LaLuz By Lourdes Moreno, we have adapted to the regulations and have adopted the term “food supplement” for our products, which have been formulated to meet different health and wellness needs. Below, I present some of our most outstanding supplements:

• Collagen Glow: Combines collagen, plant extracts, vitamins and minerals to promote skin elasticity, regeneration and firmness. It is an antioxidant and helps maintain skin hydration.
• FLOR-A : Based on probiotics and fructooligosaccharides, ideal for digestive well-being. The zinc it contains supports the immune system and protects cells from oxidative damage.
• Figu-Line: With plant extracts such as white beans, garcinia cambogia and caffeine, which help control weight, acting as a natural slimming and detoxifying agent.
• MSM PRIME: Contains Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is ideal for those looking to improve joint mobility and reduce pain.
• MUE-BT PLUS: Formulated with chondroitin sulfate, glucosamine sulfate and Boswellia serrata, it relieves joint pain and improves joint health and flexibility.
• Sol 360: Composed of a rich blend of 12 natural ingredients, which act as antioxidants and protect against premature aging.
• Cabello Plus: A nutritional supplement rich in amino acids, vitamins and minerals that promote hair health, strengthening hair and reducing hair loss.
• Wellness Day: Based on plant extracts, coenzyme Q10 and adaptogens, designed to increase energy and reduce stress during the day.
• Wellness Night: Composed of plants, melatonin and adaptogens to improve sleep quality, reduce anxiety and promote rest.

When to take a dietary supplement?

The decision to incorporate a dietary supplement into your diet should be based on your specific needs. It may be to improve digestive health, strengthen the immune system, control weight, or simply to supplement nutrient deficiencies that are not being obtained in sufficient quantities through the daily diet. It is advisable to consult with a health professional if you have any medical condition before starting any supplement.

Conclusion: Supplement or complement?

In short, although people use the terms “supplement” and “complement” as synonyms in everyday life, it is important to note that, by law, in Spain the term “food supplement” must be used. This unification seeks to provide clarity and ensure that all products meet the quality and safety standards established for this type of food.
At LaLuz By Lourdes Moreno , we continue to focus on quality and transparency, offering products that comply with regulations and meet the specific needs of our customers. Want to know more? Visit our line of food supplements and discover how they can help you achieve your wellness and health goals.