When it comes to vitamins and supplements, there sure is
a lot of hype. But when it comes to the facts do they
measure up?
Take this pill and you’ll be healthier! Live longer! Prevent cancer! Lose weight!
Who doesn’t want to believe in a magic pill that can make up for all your bad
lifestyle choices. Over half of all Australians are taking some form of
supplement or vitamin proving just how easy it is to fall for the clever
marketing.
But do you need them?
There’s been plenty of large-scale randomised trials and studies over the
years when it comes to vitamins and supplements. The results? When it
comes to the majority of the population, there is no overall benefit from taking
vitamins and supplements. And this isn’t new evidence by any means. The
majority of studies have been arriving at this conclusion for years.
Mostly, the only thing you’re guaranteed to get from taking vitamins and
supplements is some weird coloured stinky wee and a dent in your wallet. But,
be warned, there are studies suggesting they can be harmful. Studies
showing an increased risk of cancers in relation to using certain vitamins, and
increased mortality with the consumption of antioxidants.
Vitamins and supplements are all about the correct dose. Mega doses can be
dangerous and vitamin toxicity is becoming more and more common. More is
not better.
So why is everyone taking them?
The problem is that the supplement industry is relatively unregulated. It makes
billions of dollars every year and it’s growing steadily. There’s so much
marketing nonsense about vitamins, superfoods and supplements it’s hard to
not fall for the hype that you need them.
Here in Australia, a lot of our food is already fortified full of additional nutrients
and vitamins. We are fortunate to have the most well-rounded diet in human
history. For the average Australian, nutritional deficiencies are simply not a
problem, so vitamins and supplements will have no statistical benefit.
I need to make up for my bad diet.
Myth! Taking vitamins and supplements will not compensate for a poor diet!
Just because you make poor food choices, this does not necessarily mean
you are not getting the nutrients you need. A so called ’bad diet’ normally
comes down to too many calories consisting of too many fats and sugars, and
not a lack of nutrients. Your diet may not be an optimal, but taking a pill isn’t
going to counteract it. And if you are eating a well-balanced diet, well than
there is no need whatsoever for additional vitamins. Either way, it’s not going
to make a difference.
Vitamins and supplements can be beneficial for those who do need
them.
Vitamins and supplements have their place and can be beneficial for people
who suffer from deficiencies or have special medical needs. But don’t just
assume that you are deficient in an area. Get checked out by a professional.
Not some so called nutritional guru or naturopath. See your doctor.
THE VERDICT – WHEN IT COMES TO VITAMINS AND SUPPLEMENTS,
SAVE YOUR MONEY AND INSTEAD EAT YOUR FRUITS AND VEGGIES
JUST LIKE YOUR MUMMY TOLD YOU.
