Thirdly food is the safer option. There is much that we do not yet know about nutrition, but what we do know tells us that the totality of what nature provides in a balanced diet is incredibly complex. By giving repeated artificial doses of specific nutrients we are treading for the large part in unknown waters. A and vitamin B 6 toxicity. We do not know whether there might also be some more subtle toxicity syndromes as yet undiscovered.
Mineral supplements have greater toxicity potential than vitamins.
This particularly applies to minerals, whose interactive potential is legion. Giving high dose calcium for osteoporosis, for example, could put iron balance at risk. Finally, there is the vital element of enjoyment and socialising that goes along with food. On a more serious note, the GP is doing their patient a disservice if they deal with any problem of undernutrition without looking closely at eating patterns, and this certainly includes the psychosocial aspects. Whether it be the widower with neither the confidence nor the knowledge to cook, or the busy executive who is burning the candle at both ends, a careful appraisal and improvement of eating lifestyle is an essential component of nutritional therapy.