We Discuss the Science Behind Vitamins & Nutritional Supplements
Many people use vitamins and supplements to make up for deficiencies in their diets. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) reports about 50% of the U.S. is taking one or more vitamins. So should you be using supplements? Here, we will discuss the arguments and the science.
The Objections:
A significant objection to supplementation is that it is not “science-based.” While this remains a favorite argument, doctors and scientists publish studies every year. They have well documented their use of vitamins, minerals, and supplements. Their ability to treat illness with few side effects remains unparalleled. The NIH & the US National Library of Medicine keep databases of the studies.
The Science:
We know how most vitamins react with vitamins and drugs because of this wealth of research. Some supplements and prescription drugs do not interact well. Most supplements, though, do not react with each other at all. We recommend that you always tell your doctor which supplements and vitamins you are on. The decision to take a supplement or vitamin lies with you, but it is helpful to discuss with a doctor. Many MDs do not like to talk about natural methods like nutritional supplementation. Comprehensive Health Center’s holistic health approach makes you a partner in your healthcare.
Are Supplements Dangerous?
There have been zero reported deaths caused by vitamins or nutritional supplements. Meanwhile, 100,000 people die each year from prescription drugs. Over-the-counter medicine and prescription drugs account for 4 million ER visits each year. Dietary supplements only account for 23,000 ER visits most being bodybuilding supplements. A few of these visits were swallowing issues in elderly or children, often false alarms. What wasn’t false alarms were the 86% that was due to extreme caffeine in some supplements.
An untrustworthy manufacturer often manufactures the risky supplements. The problem is that these supplements are almost never taken under a doctors care. With ingredients that masquerade as harmless but contain stimulants make the decision hard. Our team can guide you in finding the right supplements for your life - even for bodybuilders!
It is easy to stay out of the ER when taking supplements if you follow a few simple rules. Buy a reputable brand, don’t take more than the daily limit, and check for interactions. Comprehensive Health Center patients use vitamins to treat illness and boost body functioning. Are you interested in what vitamins and nutritional supplementation can do for you? Give us a call to get started.
Can’t you get all the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients you need from a healthy diet?
Yes, the best source of nutrients is always going to be food. Your body gets the most use of naturally occurring vitamins and minerals. Unfortunately, it is almost impossible to get the nutrients we need from food alone. Study after study shows that many Americans are deficient in vitamins and minerals. Proper supplementation can bridge those nutritional gaps. Working with a physician specialized in integrative medicine puts your whole health first.
Doctors will ignore most vitamin and mineral deficiencies until they are severe. Integrative medicine treats these deficiencies as the critical health issues they are. A wealth of evidence exists showing that supplements can enhance physical health. The team at Comprehensive Health Center will work with you to find the supplements you need.
Vitamins and supplements can be a great way to add nutrients to your diet. With proper research and use, you can be on your way to a healthier you!