The term “nutritional supplement” refers to vitamins, minerals, and other
nutrients that are used to support good health and treat illness. For
example, plant compounds known as phytochemicals have powerful disease
fighting properties. While it’s best to get nutrients through the foods you
eat, sometimes taking a supplement can help. For example, taking zinc
supplements has been reported to shorten the duration of the common cold and
lower the incidence of acute diarrhea in children.