Question: You do not suggest taking supplements in Prescription for Life, and especially warn against the dangers of alternative, herbal medicines and weight-loss pills. But, do vitamins and fish oil capsules fall in to this category of supplements?
Answer: In Prescription for Life I point out that herbal medicines and alternative drugs do not undergo the scientific testing that controlled medicines undergo as required by the national Food and Drug Administration. The same goes for vitamins and nutritional supplements, such as fish oil capsules.
I don’t recommend even these common supplements because the medical literature demonstrates that neither combat the aging process or extend life expectancy. The last medical report out on the subject showed similar results to previous reports over the past 15-20 years, but people continue to spend untold dollars on vitamins. Instead I encourage the real thing. Eat the foods that have the vitamins and nutrients that you need.
Concerning fish oils, people have been taking these to supposedly supplement their Omega-3 fatty acids, which are indeed good for your heart. But, it has been shown that isolating the oil into capsules is insufficient. There is so much more in the whole fish that is healthy for you – not just the oil. If you dislike fish, consider that there are many other foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids, such as nuts, seeds, and leafy greens.
Additionally, if you are on a calcium supplement of some type, ask your doctor if you need to continue it if you have an exercise program.Not only does exercise improve your muscles, but it is also the number one way you can stimulate bone density. Exercise stresses your muscles, but it also places stress on your bones. That is extremely important because it helps to increase bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
“Capsules” photo courtesy of kittikunatsawintarang at freedigitalphotos.com
