Of the many vitamins and minerals examined, only calcium was found to provide any health benefit. In this current era, where medical costs are being scrutinized, it appears that diet supplements represent not only a potential waste but also is increasing health care spending through their deleterious effects. When I meet with patients, I make sure to tell them that vitamins can impact health. When there is a deficiency, they have a real role in a patients treatment plan. However, blind consumption without a clear purpose can be harmful, which these recent reports clearly demonstrate. The bottom line: A balanced diet remains key, and no supplement will remedy an unhealthy lifestyle. In my opinion, patients should consult their physician prior to starting a supplement regimen.
For the original version including any supplementary images or video, visit http://www.foxnews.com/health/2011/10/19/vitamins-supplements-are-really-bad-for-us/
Are Canadians are being shortchanged by their iron supplements?
Additionally, 83 per cent of pharmacists acknowledge a difference between various iron supplements but only 53 per cent of pharmacists communicate the difference between heme and non-heme iron supplements. “Pharmacists need to do a better job educating consumers on the differences between iron supplements so that consumers can make informed decisions,” says Anil Radia, Ottawa Pharmacist. Studies have proven oral heme iron supplements are as effective as intravenous iron.4 Unlike non-heme iron, heme iron supplements offer better absorption rates with less iron per dose, lower side effects and little to zero excess iron left in the body. The measure of an iron supplement is not in numbers, but in the absorption. For more information about heme iron supplements, talk to your local pharmacist. About Iron Deficiency: Iron deficiency is one of the most common nutritional problems in the world, known to affect around 30 per cent of the global population, with an additional 50 per cent potentially at risk of becoming iron deficient.5 When a person is iron deficient, red blood cells have difficulty carrying oxygen throughout the body to vital organs. As a result, the heart has to work harder to move oxygenated blood through the body causing fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain, swelling of the tongue, dizziness, irritability, headache and pale skin.
For the original version including any supplementary images or video, visit http://www.medindia.net/health-press-release/Are-Canadians-are-being-shortchanged-by-their-iron-supplements-187318-1.htm
Joint Health Supplements
Studies report that glucosamine and chondroitin supplements appear to be relatively safe and well tolerated when used appropriately.5,6 Joint health supplements are formulated to support and protect healthy joint cartilage, serve as an alternative treatment for OA, and are marketed as single-entity or combination products. Table 2: Examples of Common Signs and Symptoms of Osteoarthritis1 Joint soreness after extended periods of overuse or inactivity Episodes of stiffness after periods of rest that goes away rapidly when activity resumes Morning stiffness, which typically lasts no more than 30 minutes Episodes of pain caused by weakening of muscles surrounding the joint due to inactivity or a sedentary lifestyle Joint pain that is typically less painful in the morning but worse in the evening after a days activity Deterioration of coordination, posture, and walking due to pain and stiffness Glucosamine and Chondroitin According to the National Institutes of Health National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), in recent years, glucosamine and chondroitin have demonstrated some potential for reducing pain associated with OA, although there are still conflicting results and there is no conclusive scientific evidence regarding the exact effectiveness of these supplements.6 The Glucosamine/Chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial (GAIT), which was cosponsored by the NCCAM and the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, evaluated the effectiveness and safety of glucosamine and chondroitin when taken together or separately.5,6 The trial concluded that the combination of glucosamine and chondroitin did not provide significant relief from pain associated with OA among all participants.6 However, a subgroup of study participants with moderate to severe pain reported significant relief with the combination.6 Glucosamine and chondroitin are classified as natural substances found in and around the cells of cartilage.7 Glucosamine is classified as an endogenous mucopolysaccharide that the body produces and distributes in cartilage and other connective tissue, and chondroitin sulfate is classified as a complex carbohydrate that helps cartilage retain water.7-10 In the United States, glucosamine and chondroitin are sold as dietary supplements, which are regulated as foods rather than drugs.6,7 These supplements are available as single-entity formulations but are most often found in combination formulations. Glucosamine Glucosamine is believed to maintain and strengthen cartilage for overall mobility and support.7-9 Glucosamine is used by the body as a precursor for cartilage synthesis and may also serve as a sulfur donor for the sulfur bonds used in the production of cartilage.7 Research also states that glucosamine is essential to keep cartilage tissue lubricated and to maintain its naturally slippery texture.7-9 Some studies have demonstrated that glucosamine may slow the progression of knee cartilage degradation and increase cartilage growth in some individuals.7-9 Glucosamine supplements are marketed to slow the deterioration of cartilage, relieve pain associated with OA, and improve joint motility.8 Glucosamine is typically given in doses of 1500 mg daily.7 Patients should be advised that glucosamine will not provide pain relief as quickly as analgesics such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and APAP. Glucosamine may take 6 to 8 weeks to exhibit a therapeutic effect; continued use of analgesics, if appropriate and if no contraindications, may be needed.7 The full effects of glucosamine may take as long as 4 to 6 months to be realized.7 The most common adverse effects include nausea, upset stomach, constipation, and diarrhea.7 Adverse effects can be minimized by taking glucosamine in divided doses.7 Pregnant and lactating women should avoid the use of this supplement due to lack of clinical safety data.7 Clinical studies have shown that glucosamine may raise blood pressure and cholesterol levels as well as exacerbate asthma in some individuals, but the clinical results are inconclusive.7-9 Researchers report that glucosamine may interact with anticoagulants such as warfarin, so caution should be observed when both products are used.7-9 In addition, there is conflicting scientific evidence regarding the effects of glucosamine on glucose metabolism.
For the original version including any supplementary images or video, visit http://www.pharmacytimes.com/publications/issue/2013/September2013/Joint-Health-Supplements
Life With Monkeys 