Millions of people swear by the vitamin and mineral bottles that line the aisles of stores. But are there any benefits to taking them? Or are you just wasting money? A new report may need to rethink.
Americans love their supplements, with 31% of American adults claiming 80 million. These pill powders and liquids are part of a $50 billion industry in the country. But are you getting your money’s worth? The United States Preventive Services Task Force is an independent, evidence-based, non-governmental panel of medical professionals that has reviewed 80 studies involving hundreds of thousands of participants over a 30-year period. The task force concluded that using vitamin and mineral supplements to prevent cancer, cardiovascular disease, and death that you don’t actually need to take has little or no effect. Dr. Cohen studies supplement safety at Harvard Medical School. He believes they hold an important place in medicine. But he says they’re not for everyone. I’m a big fan of multivitamins, but that’s when my patients really need them for most healthy people. Not everyone agrees with the task force’s findings—their narrow, specific recommendations for health care providers. He directs the scientific and regulatory work of the Council for Responsible Nutrition, an industry association representing vendors and suppliers. Those studies are limited. She says there is growing evidence that multivitamins may be beneficial. There is also recent research showing that multivitamin use can reduce the risk of cognitive decline. People can really benefit from getting nutrients, but unfortunately many of us still don’t get enough Dr. Cohen says eating a healthy, balanced diet can save you money. Do you think supplements are a waste of money? I do when your patients come to you and say they really want to take a multivitamin or mineral supplement. And even with the difference, neither expert agrees than spending that extra dollar on healthier foods. Honestly, I think a lot about taking a multivitamin because it doesn’t replace fruits and vegetables, but it’s important to do other hard work. Talk to your healthcare provider. It’s part of that puzzle. It’s not meant to be the only solution. You can’t end your day eating hot cheats and taking vitamins. But nothing in life is that simple, right?
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