Vitamins, Herbs, and SupplementsWhat You Need to Know

Common Claims About Vitamins, Herbs, and Supplements

So what’s the hype all about?

Objectives

• Debunk common myths

• Basic education about vitamins, herbs, and supplements

• Common herbs for common ailments

• Know what is safe

Common Myths

Myth• The more vitamins you take the better.

• If you take vitamins you don’t need to exercise.

• If vitamins and supplements are taken, then you can eat whatever you want.

• Supplements are safe, otherwise they wouldn’t be on the market.

• Taking vitamins is the best way to ensure health for us and our children.

• Herbal supplements cannot be harmful because they are natural.

Fact• Certain vitamins taken in large doses can be harmful.• NOT TRUE. Daily exercise is an important aspect of

optimal physical functioning.• Nothing replaces a healthy diet. Pills alone cannot

provide all of the food components the body needs. • There is no pre-approval process for dietary

supplements. The FDA monitors but does not set limits for concentration or quantity of nutrients.

• The body’s bioavailibility of nutrients is limited. A major of these components are excreted from our bodies. Once again: regular exercise and balanced diet.

• Some naturally occuring substances can be harmful and even fatal. Correct dosage is key and knowing drug interactions are also vital ini the safe use of dietary supplements.

The Basics

Common Ailments

Common Ailments• Insomnia• Cold sores• Stomach complaints• Burns, abrasions, minor

skin irritations• Common cold symptoms• Menstrual cramps• Depression and anxiety

Herbs and Supplements to Use• Valerian Root, Chamomille,

Melatonin• Lysine• Mint, Licorice, Alfalfa, Fennel

seeds• Aloe vera• Echinacea, Eucalyptus• Fennel, Rosemary, Dandelion• St. John’s Wort, Passion Flower,

Skullcap, Valerian Root

What to Look For

• No outlandish claims

• Do research. Look for reputable companies.

• The label should:• Claim a benefit

• Describe the role of the product

• Characterize the documented mechanism

• Describe the general outcome

• Include the statement: This statement is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease”

Questions?Thoughts? Comments?

References

• http://www.vitafaq.com/facts-and-myths/

• http://www.minddisorders.com/Kau-Nu/Nutrition-and-mental-health.html

• http://www.naturalherbsguide.com/herbal-remedies.html

• http://nccam.nih.gov/health/bottle/#q7

• http://www.fda.gov/Food/DietarySupplements/GuidanceComplianceRegulatoryInformation/ucm107376.htm