The Problem
JAMA Researchers Recommend Vitamin Supplements
After 30 years of viewing the use of vitamin supplements
as unnecessary, the American medical establishment has reversed itself and is
beginning to recommend that all Americans need to supplement to remain healthy.
In a research review published in a recent issue of the Journal of the American
Medical Association (JAMA) (287, 23:3116-26, 2002), two Harvard researchers
reported finding a link between inadequate intakes of certain vitamins and the
increased risk for chronic conditions such as coronary heart disease, cancer
and osteoporosis.
Specific nutrients linked to serious health conditions.
Vitamins B9 (folic acid) and B12 (cobalamin) were found to be necessary for
reducing the risk of coronary heart disease. Vitamin E decreased the risk of
prostate cancer, and vitamin D taken with calcium decreased the occurrence of
bone fractures. It was also found that taking excessive amounts of fat-soluble
vitamins such as vitamin A may lead to more problems than solutions.
In addition, they said most people do not consume an optimal amount of all
vitamins through diet alone. "Pending strong evidence of effectiveness from
randomized trials, it appears prudent for all adults to take vitamin
supplements," the authors wrote.
"Physicians should make specific efforts to learn about their patients' use of
vitamins to ensure that they are taking vitamins they should."