Recently, there has been some
bad press on multivitamins’ efficacy which is based on two studies and an editorial
in December’s Annals of Internal Medicine.
In my bog, I discussed why this conclusion cannot be made with certainty. For
example, biased comparison groups, lack of measurements in absorption of
nutrients, incorrect potency, not accounting for the correct active
ingredients, and the quality of the product are just some of the flaws found
with the studies’ research methods.
The fact is most people who
have health symptoms and concerns do need some sort of nutritional support. The
key is finding the one that best suits you.
I have often been asked what
multivitamin I recommend. Being devoted to individualizing treatment as a naturopathic and functional medicine practitioner, the answer will always be based on one’s specific biochemistry, history, symptoms, and lab work. There is no one-size-fits-all protocol.
Below are some reasons why I
consider supplementation with the proper nutrients vital to supporting my
clients’ health:
·The environment is toxic with heavy metals, insecticides, pesticides,
radiation, and chemicals.·Diets are laden with genetically modified foods, trans-fats, antibiotics and hormones in our meat and dairy.
·There are large groups of
people who are deficient in certain vitamins and minerals despite the fact that
they are taking in recommended amounts. For example, smokers, the elderly, and
women on birth control pills need larger amounts of vitamin C.·They are safe. According to
the Annual Report of the American Association of Poison Control
Centers’ National Poison Data System (NPDS) released in 2012, deaths from
consumption of multivitamins totaled exactly zero.·There are many studies which
have shown the efficacy of multivitamins.In fact, the Council for Responsible Nutrition, released
a new report entitled Smart Prevention–Health
Care Cost Savings Resulting from the Targeted Use of Dietary Supplements.
They found potential cost benefits in the following four health categories:
1.omega-3 fatty acids, three B
vitamins (folic acid, B6, and B12), phytosterols, and psyllium dietary fiber
for heart disease2.chromium picolinate for diabetes-associated heart disease
3.lutein and zeaxanthin for cataract prevention
4.a combination of calcium and vitamin D or using magnesium to assist with osteoporosis
Therefore, for the New Year,
when you are considering taking better care of your body, consider the above
factors when deciding if you want to support your wellness with supplements. I
wish you all a wonderful, healthy start to your new year!
References:
Frost & Sullivan. Smart
Prevention – Health Care Cost Savings Resulting from the Targeted Use of
Dietary Supplements. Council for Responsible Nutrition Full Download. September
2013.
See my blog post at
dr-lobisco.com for additional references
