“Stop wasting money.” “Most supplements do not prevent chronic disease or death, their use is not justified, and they should be avoided”. These are quotes you may have seen recently taken from an editorial article in the Annals of Internal Medicine. The authors further clarified their position by saying that for healthy Americans worried about chronic disease, there is no clear benefit to taking vitamin and mineral supplements and in some cases may even cause harm. The possible exception is supplemental Vitamin D on which the jury is still out.
Please read such articles critically. The authors are saying that, in their opinion, most supplements do not prevent chronic disease or death. Therefore, don’t take them! Seems like a classic case of throwing the baby out with the bath water. Do these physicians really believe that the only reason to take vitamins and minerals is to prevent chronic disease and provide the fountain of youth?
We agree that in some instances supplements can cause harm but this is usually in those who abuse them by taking way too much. As with many things, more is not necessarily better. Moderation is usually the best course unless higher doses are prescribed by a medical practitioner.
Please use nutritional supplements responsibly. Work with your medical provider, whether physician, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, or nutritionist, to understand what supplements can and cannot do for you.
Call our nutrition department or speak with one of our pharmacists for information and guidance. We are here just for you!