It is true that a balanced and healthy diet supplies us with nearly all the micronutrients, vitamins and minerals that we need. However, some people in special situations in life have a greater need for micronutrients, such as, for example, athletes, young people in growth phases, pregnant women, but also people who cannot eat some foods (intolerances) or do not wish to do so (e.g. vegetarians). For them, it is very difficult to get their required daily supply via their diet alone. Pregnant women, for example, need more folic acid and the omega-3 fatty acid DHA – in amounts that are difficult to get via a normal, balanced diet. Vegetarians can have difficulties covering their need for vitamin B12. People suffering from lactose intolerance often have a lack of calcium.