
Special Needs
Certain nutritional needs can arise due to lifestyle circumstances as well as dietary preferences. For example, during pregnancy the body has a higher need for many different nutrients, while vegetarian or vegan diets may be low in vitamin B12, iron and certain amino acids. Likewise, children may require a whole range of vitamins and minerals to support their growth, and persons of advanced age may experience poorer absorption of certain nutrients and could benefit from supplementation to compensate for reduced endogenous production of compounds such as coenzyme Q10.
Vegan Diet
A vegetarian or vegan diet is rich in many bioactives, but may also have gaps. For example, many plant-based foods do not contain any vitamin B12 and only small quantities of bioavailable iron and zinc. Additionally, many amino acids and active omega-3 fatty acids can only be found in small concentrations in plants. Supplementing these nutrients is therefore recommended by many nutritionists and vegan associations.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
When pregnant or breastfeeding, the body requires many additional nutrients to support foetal development and a baby's growth. The health of the mother as well as child are dependent on the sufficient supply of a range of micronutrients.
Children
Children grow quickly and require a wide-ranging supply of nutrients to cover their bodies' needs. Within the first year of life, the basis for the nervous system, brain, bones, teeth and many other parts of the body is being built. Optimal nutrition can support this process.
Advanced Age
With advancing age, the body's ability to absorb nutrients decreases, especially the B vitamins including B12. Simultaneously, bodily production of certain compounds such as coenzyme Q10 decreases. Targeted supplementation can help address these shortfalls and support balanced nutrition in advanced age.