A new study just released revealed the five top reasons why physicians recommend dietary supplements to their patients. The Life Supplemented Healthcare Professionals (HCP) Impact Study found that a majority of physicians - 79% - recommend supplements to their patients for these health reasons:
- Bone Health 33%
- Overall health and wellness 32%
- Joint Health 29%
- Heart Health 26%
- Maintain healthy cholesterol 22%
The physicians were not asked to specify which supplements they would recommend for each condition; however, there are certain supplements that are widely recognized for each of these health areas.
1. Bone Health - Calcium and Vitamin D are widely recognized and recommended for maintaining bone health and managing osteoporosis
2. Overall health and wellness - This survey found that 72 percent of physicians think its a good ideas for patients to take a multivitamin.
3. Joint Health - Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements have been shown in clinical trials to aid in joint discomfort and mobility often caused by osteoarthritis.
4. Heart Health - Omega-3's, EPA and DHA, found in fatty fish such as salmon are often taken for many health reasons, including a healthy heart. Other supplements include vitamin E and B vitamins.
5. Maintain healthy cholesterol - Soluble fiber is known for its cholesterol-lowering effects and plant sterols are becoming popular also.
Top supplements used by the 72 percent of physicians who say they use a dietary supplement:
- Multivitamin
- Vitamin C
- B vitamins
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin E
- Calcium
Read more about this study here
Posted by: Leslie on Thursday, September 18, 2008
Thanks for the additional tips. It's important to look for a high quality multivitamin but it may be necessary to take an additional Vitamin D supplement to get enough. The current RDA of 400IU is not sufficient, especially if you live in a northern climate, are older or have darker skin. Experts are saying you need at least 1000IU of Vitamin D a day to support optimal health.
Posted by: Vitamin supplements on Thursday, September 18, 2008
People over 60: for people over 60, a moderate daily multivitamin with vitamin B12 and vitamin D may be most beneficial. High levels of vitamin A can increase risk of hip fracture and should be avoided. High levels of iron can promote oxidative stress; supplements should contain less than 9 mg of iron.