The purpose of this essay is to examine the overall health of the human body. Specifically, the essay highlights five supplements or herbs that claim to reduce the risk of cancer or heart diseases. Most of these herbs and supplements can aid in preventing heart conditions or cancer and reduce clinical symptoms by lessening high blood pressure, cleaning arteries, and enhancing breathing. Besides, other claims related to nutrition, well-being, health, and structure or function are also made.
Coenzyme Q10 or CoQ10
CoQ10 is also ubiquinone and is regarded as a chemical with capabilities to aid cells in extracting energy from food. The heart is required to have a sufficient supply of CoQ10 because of its role. This chemical, however, declines over time while low cholesterol levels exhaust it. A study demonstrated that coenzyme Q10 supplements at “a dose of 150 mg could lower oxidative stress and enhance antioxidant enzyme activity in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD)” (Lee, Huang, Chen, & Lin, 2012, p. 250). Lee et al. (2012) noted that a higher dose of “coenzyme Q10 supplements (>150 mg/d) could stimulate fast and sustainable antioxidation in patients with CAD” (p. 250).
The supplement is promoted as safe and well- endurable, but poorly absorbed orally. Further, it is warned that statin drugs may lessen the effects of coenzyme Q10 supplements.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
These essential nutrients have been linked to reduced inflammation resulting from atherosclerosis, as well as capabilities to reduce levels of fatty blood constituents and triglycerides that obstruct arteries. Higher levels of triglycerides have been associated with diabetes and atherosclerosis. Research shows that consumption of omega-3 fatty acids could lower blood pressure, boost lipid components, and reduce risks of deaths related to heart conditions (Mohebi-Nejad & Bikdeli, 2014). However, Mohebi-Nejad and Bikdeli (2014) warned that these supplements are not free from risks, and they have been linked to bleeding and hemorrhagic stroke.
Green Tea
Green tea has mainly been used for centuries because of perceived health benefits derived from the antioxidant epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which ultimately leads to healthy hearts. While past claims were based on anecdotal evidence, research now confirms positive effects of green tea and green tea catechins on cardiovascular and metabolic health (Wolfram, 2007). More benefits can be realized by consuming five to six cups every day, and some capsules are now available in the market.
Pomegranate
Pomegranate juice extracted from ruby-red fruit is also widely consumed like green tea because of perceived health benefits related to blood pressure and cardiovascular health. Current research has confirmed this claim (Stowe, 2011). This remedy offers powerful antioxidants to control atherosclerosis and reduce high blood pressure.
Vitamin E and Beta-carotene
Current evidence demonstrates that vitamin E and beta-carotene supplements do not help in preventing cancer or heart disease (American College of Preventive Medicine, 2015). Instead, research shows that vitamin E supplementation does not significantly reduce risk of cardiovascular conditions while beta-carotene has been linked to “a small but significant increase in total mortality and cardiac death” (Ye, Li, & Yuan, 2013, p. e56803).
Regulations of Supplements and Herbs and How Scientific Studies are conducted on them
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is responsible for dietary herbs and supplements regulations (American Cancer Society, 2015). However, the agency cannot assess all claims made concerning all supplements and herbs. Moreover, manufacturers of these supplements and herbs have the ultimate responsibility for safety, but the FDA only initiates an investigation if a problem has been reported (American Cancer Society, 2015).
It is imperative to recognize that the FDA treats these supplements and herbs more like special foods when compared to other drugs (American Cancer Society, 2015). That is, supplements and herbs are not classified as drugs, and they, therefore, are not subjected to similar safety and efficiency standards expected of drugs. All drugs sold in the US, even if no prescription is available, are approved based on safety and effectiveness. However, the same cannot be said of herbs and supplements.
The US Pharmacopeia (USP) is a self-governing body that conducts scientific studies on herbs and supplements. The USP focuses on quality control by assessing the quality, strength, purity, packaging, and labeling of these supplements and herbs (American Cancer Society, 2015). It provides standard information on supplements and herbs. The organization also tests and visits facilities producing these products. However, the law does not compel manufacturers of these supplements and herbs to join or adhere to USP benchmarks. Many manufacturers, however, have opted to join the USP and get the USP verification labels.
Conclusion and Recommendations
Supplements or herbs have been consumed based on health benefits specifically related to heart disease and cancer. Further, scientific evidence is now available to support some anecdotal claims made in the past. However, evidence also suggests that some of these herbs and supplements do not prevent heart disease or cancer, are dangerous, and have been linked to deaths. Notably, supplements and herbs are also not easy to regulate because they are considered as special food while scientific studies on them are purely done voluntarily by manufacturers. Their commercial agenda should also not escape the attention of consumers.
American College of Preventive Medicine. (2015). Dietary supplements to prevent heart disease or cancer: They don’t help—and some can be harmful. Consumer Report Health. Web.
Lee, B. J., Huang, Y. C., Chen, S. J., & Lin, P. T. (2012). Coenzyme Q10 supplementation reduces oxidative stress and increases antioxidant enzyme activity in patients with coronary artery disease. Nutrition, 28(3), 250-5. doi: 10.1016/j.nut.2011.06.004.
Mohebi-Nejad, A., & Bikdeli, B. (2014). Omega-3 supplements and cardiovascular diseases. Journal of Respiratory Disease, Thoracic Surgery, Intensive Care and Tuberculosis, 13(1), 6–14.
Stowe, C. B. (2011). The effects of pomegranate juice consumption on blood pressure and cardiovascular health. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 17(2), 113-5. doi: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2010.09.004.
Wolfram, S. (2007). Effects of green tea and EGCG on cardiovascular and metabolic health. Journal of the American College of Nutrition, 26(4), 373S-388S.
Ye, Y., Li, J., & Yuan, Z. (2013). Effect of antioxidant vitamin supplementation on cardiovascular outcomes: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. PLoS ONE, 8(2), e56803. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0056803.
Infomercials are long-form commercial advertisements that are characterized by making appealing claims about the quality and capabilities of the products being advertised. Dietary supplements are some of the products which have been widely publicized by the use of infomercials so as to increase the marketing capability of the manufacturers. The reason why so many infomercials are being made is mostly as a result of the effectiveness with which infomercials are regarded. This compounded with the huge demand for dietary supplements by the US population has seen many manufacturers endorse the usage of infomercials to market their goods.
The effectiveness of infomercials cannot be overemphasized. A ruling by Judge Gettleman banning Kevin Trudeau from participating in infomercials acknowledged that Trudeau misled hundreds of thousands of consumers by the use of infomercials. This suggests that infomercials are indeed very effective and formidable marketing tools. Their effectiveness is mostly as a result of their ability to present some form of interaction with the viewer as demonstrations of how the product works are given. Additionally, as a result of the running time of infomercials (averagely 30minutes), viewers are given sufficient time to buy into what is being portrayed. This is as opposed to adverts which run for relatively shorter durations.
Abuse of infomercials occurs when claims on a products abilities are exaggerated or even outright lies. This leads to the deception of consumers or exposure to health hazards as a result of using the products. The FDA is involved in investigations into infomercials that make false claims or promote products that are harmful. However, current regulations of infomercials are not enough and Larson John indicates that there are unscrupulous advertisers who mislead consumers by making false claims about products. More regulations should be made to ensure that only verifiable claims are made by infomercials. Anyone guilty of making false claims should be prosecuted and heavily fined as with the Trudeau case. However, achieving this ideal may take a lot of time and effort as a result of the magnitude of the infomercial industry since it is approximated that two infomercials are produced on a daily basis.
Most dietary supplements advertised claim to provide results in very short periods of time. These are very attractive propositions to bodybuilders and athletes who wish to obtain a certain desirable physique in the quickest time frame and with the least amount of effort. For this reason, supplements have been a major success with these groups of people. The dietary supplements also promise to offset the negative effects that indulging in fast foods and soft drinks may have on the body.
It is evident that owing to the demand for dietary supplements, health issues may be overlooked as consumers set out to achieve their fitness goals and manufacturers aim to maximize their profits. The FDA asserts that dietary supplements are given special regulations to ensure that the products are safe and that the claims made about them are true. However, the FDA lacks the capacity to look into every dietary product owing to their sheer numbers in the market. A more effective approach would be to ensure that dietary products are approved by the FDA before a manufacturer is allowed to market them. However, this measure would result in an increase in the FDA workload and manufacturers would lose valuable time as they await their products to be certified.
Individuals who may benefit from taking a dietary supplement in addition to a well-balanced diet
Individuals who are healthy and eat various types of foods do not require supplements. However, the dietary rules suggest that supplements should be used under certain conditions. For instance, expecting mothers, people who have been diagnosed with low levels of particular vitamins and vegetarians may benefit from taking a dietary supplement in addition to a well balanced diet. Vegetarians require dietary supplement to obtain proteins that are not available in plants. Apart from consuming foods that naturally have folate, expecting mothers should also take fortified foodstuffs.
Amount of money America is projected to spend on vitamin and mineral supplements by the year 2014
According to statistics, America is expected to spend approximately $200 million on vitamin pills by the year 2014. Moreover, the country is also likely to spend roughly $1 billion on fish-oil supplements. Since the use of vitamin D supplements is expected to increase to $14 billion, United States’ government will spend roughly $4 billion on the supplements.
FDA approval of dietary supplements before being taken to the market
Unlike drugs, dietary supplements do not require FDA approval before they can be sold to the public. Arguably, FDA approval will only be required for the dietary supplements containing new ingredients which had not been tested before.
Supplement manufacturers’ structure/function claims on the labels of dietary supplements
The statement that supplement manufacturers are not legally permitted to make structure claims on the labels of dietary supplements is false. This is because they always have the authority from FDA to describe the effect of their product on human bodies. Additionally, they are also allowed to describe a particular structure or function on human bodies.
FDA on the sale of dietary supplements
The statement that FDA cannot remove a supplement from the marketplace unless it has been shown as unsafe or harmful to the consumer is true. Arguably, the organization does not only register supplement manufacturers, but also monitors their activities. Therefore, FDA can intervene whenever they sell harmful products.
Cons that supplement manufacturers use to convince consumers to buy their product
To lure consumers, manufacturers of supplements use pictures of elegant models in their advertisements. This is to create an impression that consumers can also experience similar changes. They also present fake testimonials of individuals who had been supposedly transformed by the supplement. Manufacturers of supplements use complicated data presentation tools to confuse their customers. Other manufacturers simply recommend unreliable websites and other sources of information to gain the trust of their customers.
Certified mark that consumers may look for on a supplement label to help assure that the ingredients contained therein are truly in the supplement
To be sure that the ingredients contained in supplements are true, consumers are supposed to look for certain supplement labels. For instance, they should look for labels like NSF International, US Pharmacopeia, and ConsumerLab.
The certified mark on the supplement label
The statement that the certified mark on the supplement label indicates that the supplement has been certified for safety and effectiveness is not true. A certified mark simply indicates that the contents in the label are the actual contents in the supplement.
Criteria of conducting a scientific study on a dietary supplement before selling
Supplement manufacturers should first analyze the composition of their products as this will ensure that they have the required quality and quantity of ingredients. Scientific tests should also be conducted to prove the functionality of the products. Supplement producers should generate a genuine list of ingredients to boost customers’ confidence. They should also put up necessary safety measures to avoid any negative health effects on consumers. Finally, the manufacturers should carry out structure or function studies to boost their selling capacity.
A dietary supplement is a product that is made to provide necessities that may not be available in the provided diet. Though the use of these supplements may hold some benefits, most of them are identified to have several side effects. This paper seeks to discuss the supplement chromium. The paper will look into the benefits, possible side effects, restrictions as well as the possible dangers that can be experienced when the supplement is taken together with other medications.
Benefits of Chromium Supplement
Chromium is one of the most commonly used supplements in the market. The extent to which it has covered the market among individuals who consume nutritional supplements is an indication of the level of benefits derived from the mineral. One of its particular benefits has been its identified capacity to burn fats and lipids from the body. This makes it a source of relief for those individuals who have excess body fats. By reducing the body fat level of a person, the mineral supplement shall have played a very important role in reducing the susceptibility of the particular individual to diseases such as cardiovascular complications that have been associated with excess body fats. Another benefit of the chromium mineral is its capacity to enhance developments in body muscles. This is particularly important in men whose bodies are more expected to be muscular. The mineral will thus help individuals who are interested in increasing their muscles to attain their dream. Muscle development can also help an individual to get into those employment opportunities that require muscles such as working in security departments or even in sports such as rugby. The benefits also extend to health factors in which chromium is used to control ailments such as diabetes and heart complications (Herbalicious, 2010).
Possible side effects of chromium supplement
There have not been significant cases of reported side effects of the mineral supplements. This is concerning the number of reported cases as well as the level of severity of the side effects that have been reported over chromium. Only a few side effects that are at the same time mild have been reported concerning chromium. The major reported cases have been related to “slight rashes or dizziness” as well as increased experiencing dreaming when an individual starts the use of the chromium supplement (Challem, 2003).
Restrictions
The use of chromium does not have significant legal restrictions. It is however restricted in the recommended level of consumption that depends on factors such as “age, overall health, and diet and stress level” (Challem, 2003, p. 148).
The toxic effect when taken with other medications
The use of the mineral supplement together with other medication has been identified with some effects especially in the stomach when such uses are prolonged over a long period. Such combinatory use has the effect of increasing the acidity level of the stomach as well as altering the absorption of the mineral. This leads to destabilized concentration of minerals in the stomach (National, n.d.).
Conclusion
Like other consumable goods, chromium has benefits as well as side effects. Chromium has been shown to burn body fats which are known to cause a heart attack. The mineral has also been associated with the development of muscles and this is an advantage for those interested in developing their muscles. Though some harmful effects have been associated with chromium, it can be argued that the benefits accrued from the mineral seem to be more than the identified mild side effects.
References
Challem, J. (2003). User’s Guide to Nutritional Supplements. North Bergen, NJ: Basic Health Publications, Inc.
It is very easy to read an article in a magazine and believe everything it claims simply because it is presented in a professional way. The implications of this are particularly important when the article contains information about one’s health. Other ways people gain information about new herbal treatments for a common ailment are through word of mouth, which carries with it the authority of the ‘old wives’ or ‘ancient lore’, both of which are frequently credited with time-tested knowledge that has worked for generations.
In some cases, the information is very valid and the research to support this is becoming more widely available, but in other cases, the information has been proven wrong, ineffective and, at times, even counterintuitive. Before acting upon the information found in an article or passed down through word of mouth, it’s a good idea to question the claims made through a thorough analysis. One substance, frequently being used as an alternative to drug therapy for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease as well as a number of other common ailments, is the herb known commonly as yarrow.
Yarrow has a number of different cultivars that thrive in many parts of the world and the herb has a long history of use as a medical supplement. Officially, the plant is known as Achillea millefolium, but it has a number of common names including gordaldo, nosebleed plant, old man’s pepper, sanguinary, milfoil, soldier’s woundwort, thousand-leaf and feather-leaf (Dodson & Dunmire, 2007). The plant is said to have been named because of its association with the Greek hero Achilles. “According to the legend, Achilles’ mother held him by the heels and dipped him in a bath of yarrow. Achilles was forever protected by the herb except for the heels” (Madocks, 2009).
Throughout his life, the hero was said to have always carried yarrow with him into battle because of its ability to staunch the flow of blood from battle-inflicted wounds. “In the ancient world, yarrow was seen as a potent healing agent, whether applied to a wound or taken internally to prevent a cold setting in. Yarrow was the preferred domestic medicine of yesteryears’ mothers who kept it around to keep coughs and colds at bay” (Ehrlich, 2007). There is evidence of its use throughout the world including references in England, Italy, Greece, the Middle East, China and among numerous Native American tribes.
There are numerous benefits purported for yarrow, many of which can be helpful in treating conditions of the colon such as inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s Disease. Although the uses to which the ancients put the plant are many, modern day uses include treatment for loss of appetite, indigestion or heartburn, to increase urine flow, help regulate menstrual flow, treat menstrual cramps and pain, soothe muscle spasms, relieve inflammation, fight infection, reduce fever, to treat minor internal bleeding and to stop external bleeding (Ehrlich, 2007). Many cultures look to the yarrow plant to either stop or reduce the effects of colds and flu as well.
People suffering from inflammatory bowel disease frequently suffer many of these problems. The most common symptoms reported for both ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s Disease are persistent diarrhea, crampy abdominal pain, fever and rectal bleeding (Teitelbaum, 2009). The only one of these symptoms that yarrow does not directly address, based upon the common usage, is persistent diarrhea. Its ability to help with abdominal pain by relieving muscle spasms, reduce fever and stop internal and external bleeding has many sufferers turning to yarrow as a possible alternative solution to the often expensive and sometimes embarrassing forms of medication available.
While yarrow is a good herbal remedy for many of these symptoms and has a relatively mild effect, there are some people who should not use it. To begin with, herbs including yarrow can have an effect on the way other substances behave within the body. Yarrow has a tendency to make other medications stronger, so it’s important for people to work with their health care provider when using these substances. It is known to interact with brand name drugs Tagamet, Pepcid, Zantac, Nexium, Prilosec and Prevacid as well as medications for high blood pressure and sleep aids such as Dilantin, barbiturates, Xanax, Valium, Ambien, Sonata, Lunesta or Rozerem (Ehrlich, 2007).
However, before patients will discuss their use of herbal remedies with their health care practitioner, they must have a sense that their nurses and doctors are well-informed. In addition, yarrow has a tendency to make skin more sensitive to sunlight and, as a member of the aster family, may cause irritation in people who are allergic to plants such chrysanthemums, daisies or ragweed. Finally, with its muscle-relaxing properties, yarrow may cause miscarriage in pregnant women.
Yarrow has not received a great deal of scientific attention in the past few years, but enough research has been done to suggest that the traditional lore surrounding the herb has some basis in fact. Japanese researchers have identified three anti-tumor compounds present in yarrow that have proven active against certain types of leukemia cells (Lietava, 1992). One study concluded that yarrow reduced the aggressive properties of gastric juice and enhanced its protective properties (cited in Sahelian, 2009).
Yarrow has also been proven to be a choleretic agent (cited in Sahelian, 2009). While the research remains scant, scientists have identified a number of biologically active compounds in the herb. Essential oils of the plant include the components borneol, camphor, eugenol, chamazulene, tannins, achilleine, aligenin and rutin (Lietava, 1992). Some research has been conducted to determine whether yarrow actually poses risk to pregnancy, but no conclusive reports have been released.
There are a number of ways in which yarrow can be taken. Because there have been no studies to determine its effects on children, there are no recommended dosing instructions for children suffering from the effects of inflammatory bowel disease. However, adults can take yarrow in teas, capsules, extracts or tinctures or use it as a poultice in the case of external wounds. When used as a tea, it is recommended that adults steep one or two teaspoons of the dried herb in a cup of boiling water, strain and then cool and season to taste. Adults should drink two to three cups of yarrow tea per day to regulate their system and maintain control over their illness.
Two to four grams of yarrow in capsule form is recommended daily or one to four milliliters of extract three times a day. Tinctures are also recommended three times daily in doses of two to four milliliters each. These dosages are recommended for average, everyday use by people interested in boosting immune systems and regulating the digestive tract. People actively suffering from inflammatory bowel disease may choose to use yarrow in the form of an enema as a means of delivering the active ingredients directly to the area of interest, but this should only be done with the involvement of a medical professional as advisor.
It is my recommendation that those suffering from inflammatory bowel disease, whether actively in a ‘flare up’ or maintaining control, consider drinking yarrow tea daily. This is particularly recommended for those interested in finding non-medical means of controlling their illness.
The implications of using yarrow as a means of naturally controlling the persistent symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease within the nursing practice are many. Discussion of the herb can open up the conversation with an embarrassed patient and provide them with a less invasive, more socially acceptable means of controlling, or potentially controlling, their illness. In addition, there is very little necessary to teach the patient how to administer the dosage. In considering client teaching, it is important to assess the client’s present level of knowledge, determine their primary concern and the knowledge they still require.
One of the benefits of yarrow is that it addresses a number of complaints with the same substance and process. In addition to addressing many of the common complaints of the inflammatory bowel disease sufferer, yarrow is as effectively administered as a pleasant tea rather than a collection of pills or, what most patients hate, an enema. By encouraging patients to replace their coffee with a yarrow tea, another potentially aggravating ingredient, caffeine, can be removed from the IBD diet and thus potentially contribute to a greater feeling of wellness.
Finally, regular cups of yarrow tea would encourage patients to take some time out of their normal routine, or create a normal routine, in which a cup of tea is enjoyed while the patient relaxes. While stress has been ruled out as a primary contributor to the illness, it does exacerbate the condition and can bring on an attack.
Although it is healthy and advisable to research the use of any dietary supplement or herbal remedy before making any recommendations, yarrow has been widely recognized within the medical community as an effective agent for a number of complaints. Its well-rounded properties address most of the most common complaints of those who suffer inflammatory bowel disease while providing them with incentive to spend some relaxing moments a few times per day as they sip their cup of tea. This quiet time is likely to help the client treat their illness from an emotional perspective as well.
References
Dodson & Dunmire. (2007). Mountain Wildfowers of the Southern Rockies. UNM Press.
Ehrlich, Steven D. (2007). “Yarrow.” Medical Reference. University of Maryland Medical Center.
Lietava, J. (1992). “Yarrow.” Health Journal. Web.
Madocks, Ruth. (2009). “Herbs in my Garden: Yarrow.” Health and Well-Being. San Luis Obispo, CA: Information Press. Web.
The aim of this research paper is to understand how the $25 billion dietary supplements industry blatantly ignores government-mandated quality and safety norms, and the health-related consequences it creates for the general public. The author will analyse this subject from a radical philosophy approach and expose the role of PR and advertising agencies which represent the supplements industry, as well as government lobbyists, in keeping the consumer ignorant about nutritionally correct information that matter to their health. The magnitude of the problem is compounded several fold when one follows news stories of how the supplements industry is able to misdirect government regulation bodies and child welfare agencies in marketing their harmful products to school bodies.
Research Aims
This paper contains substantial evidence on how a lack of proper government regulation and consumer awareness on the marketing strategy of the supplements industry (as well as a lack of interest by media) is causing irreversible damage to the health and well-being of school-going children. From a philosophical point of view, the author believes that their deception tactics are nothing short of oppression since they give the consumer no knowledge about the side-effects of these products, and instead bombard them with promotional messages which appeal to their fear instincts. In order to redress the problems created by the supplements industry, the author will invoke the Rules for Radicals by Saul Salinsky and related theories by other authors that deal with overcoming social oppression.
The Inside Machinations of the Food Industry
A prominent nutritionist, Marion Nestle, who has been an advisor for the Department of Health and Human Services, has come out strongly against the commercial aspects of the food industry in her book, The Food Politics. The underlying conclusion from her research suggests that “food companies, just like companies that sell cigarettes, pharmaceuticals or any other commodity, routinely place the needs of stockholders over public health” (Nestle, 1).
The modus operandi is to take on board some expert nutritionists, professional organizations and research bodies, and manipulate consumer choice by advertising food products which generate maximum profit, while hiding health impact details of such products from the public purview. As an example of how they utilise the political and legal processes to achieve government and professional support for ensuring the sale of their products, Nestle points out that over several decades, food companies through massive PR and advertising efforts, have actively persuaded government officials, nutritional professionals and the media, to make people “eat more” of their products for achieving balanced nutrition levels (Nestle, 3).
As an example, the meat industry promoted meat products to Adult Americans as a necessary means to achieve the daily Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) targets for proteins, while suppressing the fact that frequent meat-eating leads to an abundance of health-related problems such as obesity, deranged metabolism, coronary heart diseases, certain cancers, diabetes, hypertension, stroke and more (Nestle, 3). It is well-known that over 41% of American adults are expected to be obese by 2014 (Wang & Beydoum), a situation which is a direct fall-out of misplaced advertising by food companies.
Nestle has also been critical of factory farms and giant food corporations by bringing evidence that when food items are not sourced locally, as it used to happen in the earlier times, it would only lead to increasing health and safety risks for the consumer (Nestle, 13).
Taking a cue from Nestle’s critical approach of the food industry in general, the author will examine health and safety issues prevalent in the dietary supplements industry. According to the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA), almost 60% of the American adults consume dietary supplements (Talbott, 1). These are legally defined as any product (other than tobacco) that “supplement the diet by consisting of one or more of the following ingredients: a vitamin, mineral, herb or other botanical, amino acid, concentrate, metabolite, constituent, extract or combination of these ingredients” (Talbott, 2).
About Dietary Supplements Industry
It is interesting to note that the recent exponential growth in usage of supplements by Americans has essentially followed the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) which was enacted by the US Congress in 1994 to allow the consumer the “freedom to choose” dietary supplements (Talbott, 1) as per their own discretion, rather than through proper, regulated health care advice. This judgment enabled the FDA to put dietary supplements in the same category as “food” instead of “drugs”, thus, making these products evade the stringent quality and side-effects tests that are usually done on prescriptive drugs (Porter, 12).
The DSHEA has ensured that the producer, is spared any legal liability in health or contamination issues, and the end consumer is left to his own devices when an outbreak happens. In other words, supplements manufacturers have no obligation to prove that a particular ingredient is safe before introducing it to the market (Talbott, 6).
DSHEA further requires the FDA to give a total of 10 days notice to manufacturers in the event a product is regarded unsafe. This ensures that the manufacturer can withdraw their product before they encounter a lawsuit, a clause which significantly protects their business interests.The author believes such a legal mechanism is erroneous, and calls for a complete overhaul of the existing system, with newer and stringent regulations to protect consumer interests.
Ever since the passage of the DSHEA act, the lack of legal measures to keep a check on the irregularities in the dietary supplements industry has led to numerous violations of safety concerns, with widely publicized scandals. In a mid-1997 case, the FDA proposed limitations on the amount of ephedrine alkaloids to be allowed in dietary supplements by giving suitable warnings about various side effects such as nervousness, dizziness, elevated blood pressure, heart palpitations, heart attack, seizures, strokes and death (Talbott, 6).
This proposal was initiated by the FDA’s review of Adverse Event Reports, but was later challenged by supplement industry groups as a scientifically invalid position (Talbott, 6). In another 1997 case, the FDA learnt that a herbal ingredient Plantain was infected, after news reports on heart obstruction in a woman surfacing in the media (Talbott, 6). However, the 10 day notice period given to manufacturers as per DSHEA norms, nearly legitimized their practice.
The supplements industry can also get around government-mandated safety standards for particular ingredients by using the phrase, “under recommended use”. A popular weight loss and energy herb ma huang (ephedra) was typically recommended at dosages in the range of 10 to 30 milligrammes per dose (per day) (Porter, 56). At higher doses, it would cause hypertension and thus, deemed inappropriate for the consumer. Yet, despite this safety concern, most supplements manufacturers ignored the ethical aspect and fail to place appropriate cautions and warnings on their supplements labels (Porter, 59). Even vitamins pills manufacturers take advantage of the “food” classification system instead of “drugs” to avoid their responsibility to label maximum dosage limits (Porter, 60). The loopholes in the system do not get any worse than this.
Other Factors
Other factors that promote the consumption of dietary supplements include health status, sex, age, ethnicity, education, income, geography and lifestyle (Hollenstein, 5). As they happen to be the main nurturing agents, children are encouraged to consume dietary supplements, mostly complex mineral-enriched foods, protein and calcium tablets and more (Hollenstein, 5). In fact, according to a recent survey, children under the age of 5 happen to be one of the largest consumer groups of dietary supplement products (Hollenstein, 5). This makes them an especially lucrative target base for marketing and advertising firms that promote these products.
Impact of Supplements on Children
Since, there is such an acute shortage of appropriate information on the nutritional value of these supplements, children are often misled into consuming products that are detrimental to their long-term health and well-being. Ironically, most supplement products are designed to help growing children to achieve their daily RDA-balance of proteins, calcium, vitamins and minerals (Hollenstein, 8). Advertising and PR agencies do their bit in pushing parents and school authorities to procure more of these supplement diets, and include them as normal ingredients in a child’s lunch menu.
Children always bear the brunt of dietary misinformation. They are most often the easiest target for advertisers, increasingly so due to easy access to television and the Internet. Children who participate in competitive sports are especially vulnerable to the messaging promoted by advertising companies, who almost compel them to include supplements in their daily food intake. School authorities also offer supplements as an additional choice, along with “combo meal” coupons (Porter, 65).
Clearly, the lack of know-how about the modus operandi of the supplements industry can have serious long-term consequences on children’s health. The lack of government monitoring, and industry regulation practices and categorization of supplements as a food and not a drug poses a huge problem. This is quite unlike some European countries such as France, Germany and Belgium, where it’s mandatory by law to label all supplements as drugs, instead of food (Porter, 75). Unless and until a similar regulation exists in the United States, children will continue to be vulnerable to the side-effects of their supplements intake.
Again, it must be borne in mind that not all supplement products are harmful by definition alone. In fact, many are actually beneficial when taken in right dosage amounts. Consequently, the key guideline for parents and children alike is moderation and it’s the responsibility of FDA and other regulation bodies to guarantee dissemination of relevant information on the impact of supplement products on the health and well-being of children.
Advertising and PR in Supplements Industry
In order to ensure apposite regulation, the advertising and PR industry representing these dietary supplementary firms should also be made accountable to the overall impact of their products on children’s health. Just like the tobacco and alcohol industry, the supplements industry requires a regulation effort which controls product messaging to ensure responsible consumption among the public (Porter, 78).
Advertising slogans such as “Use our supplements to gain height”, “Lose weight fast”, “Achieve higher stamina” often exaggerate the value of these products much more than they really are, and create a lasting impact on Children, a highly impressionable set of consumers. Just as in tobacco and alcohol advertising, nutrition should not be taken as a light matter. Due regulation is the need of the hour.
Dietary supplements firms should take an ethical approach and desist from their current practice of not giving adequate labeling of their products (Hollenstein, 36). It is worth noting that many of these firms quote “freedom of choice” as the principle to ensure consumers have frequent access to their products, and are allowed to make their own decision without any sort of intervention from government regulators (Porter, 91). In a similar vein, it may be argued that these firms should bear the responsibility of disseminating information so that their consumers can make a “choice”.
Solution: Need for Change
Right since the formation of the United States, radical social movements have often defined and shaped the trajectory of the nation. Just like the civil rights movement in the early 1960’s, to the contemporary animal rights movement led by agencies such as PETA, the right to have access to proper health and nutrition info should also be recognized as a key struggle. Considering the appalling present state of America regarding obesity, ill-health and the public expenditure caused due to unrestricted advertising by the food industry, it may be argued that denying people information on what constitutes the best option for their health, should be also seen as a form of social oppression.
In no uncertain words, it would be then deemed appropriate to challenge the status quo, and bring about change. As an example of social change, smoking in public was considered a highly acceptable behavior not very long ago. Many of us still recollect the movie actor, Humphrey Bogart smoking a Havana cigar while striking a pose. Back then, smoking was a fashionable trend and noone looked down upon it. Cigarette advertising was rife, and very few challenged the notion of banning it. If we look back today from then, a lot has changed. Today, most states in the country have banned public smoking in one way or the other.
Moreover, the tobacco industry is made to be compliant with government-mandated warning measures for the benefit of smokers, while being disallowed to advertise openly. All this has happened in a span of very few decades because some concerned citizens got together to challenge the victimization of the tobacco industry. The question remains, if it was possible back then, why is it not possible today? If smoking constitutes harmful behavior, why is over-eating or growing adult/children dependence on supplement products seen as a less harmful behavior.
The author firmly believes that the time has come to challenge past notions, and work towards building a healthy, and respectable society which does not take kindly to “supplements abuse”, for lack of choice of words, let a new slogan be raised, let new battle lines be drawn. Compromising on the health and well-being of citizens is not an acceptable solution to our present set of problems. In order to seek a solution, the author will invoke a set of radical philosophy theories which can be applied to the dietary supplements industry. A total of three theories are hereby discussed.
Theory One
The first theory is based on Iris Young’s “social group difference” principle (Young, 1). It advocates that public policy should be determined on the basis of differences between people, rather than considering them a homogenous mass (Young, 1). For example, public dissent towards smoking in the early 1970’s emanated from college-going educated classes of Americans. It was felt and observed that this group did not want to participate in second-hand smoke because of inadequate regulations to prevent smoking in public places.
Recognizing this situation was the first step in creating a climate where the harmful effects of public smoking could be debated, and regulations brought in to ensure everyone’s interests was kept alive (Young, 87). Today, thanks to government regulation, smokers have a choice to consume cigarettes in their own private surroundings while non-smokers do not have to be exposed to second hand smoke.
In a similar vein, the author advocates that the FDA should be made to recognize that there is a growing body of consumers who object to unregulated practices of the supplements industry. Consequently, a climate of change should be initiated which addresses this issue over the next few years, or decades.
Theory Two
The second theory is based on Paulo Friere’s “class struggles” (Friere, 5) which advocates that any form of social oppression solely exists due to ongoing class struggles between the oppressor, and the oppressed (Friere, 5). The oppressor, derives his “power” due to some measurable parameter such as wealth, status or connections with the bureaucracy by lobbying (Friere, 18).
In order to ensure that this power shield is broken down, the radical philosopher needs to stop remaining adjusted to the culture of domination which surrounds his world. The onus is on him to challenge institutions which arrest the onset of social good.
Theory Three
The last and final theory to be applied is by Saul Alinsky, who, in his “rules for radicals” (Alinsky, 3), advocated ideas that would change the world, by working from within the system (Alinsky, 3). The most critical step here is to organize forces against the opposition. According to Alinsky, people should step out of their default mode of not questioning oppression in their social institutions, as also advocated by Friere and perform real-life tactics by using their “organization skills” (Alinsky, 6)to ensure a direct headalong response to the challenges of social oppression, with real solutions (Alinsky, 6).
According to Alinsky, the rules of radicals are simple – if enough of them can gather together to create a dynamic movement, social changes are inevitable as the oppressor always lives in fear of a large swarthe of people going against their interests (Alinsky, 8). That thought alone, shakes the foundations of power, and plants the seeds of achieving social justice. Some of the often used rules for radicals include:
Understanding the true definition of power; it’s not something which one has but which one perceives to be carrying (Alinsky, 31). According to Salinsky, real strength lies not in numbers but in the ability of the leader to create a powerful impact. The example of Erin Brockovich comes in mind. She was a famous environmental activist who was able to take on the might of a major corporation, Pacific gas and Electric Company by organizing complainants of their corporation policies in ruining the environment. Not only she didn’t buckle down, but actually fought to ensure the corporation was brought to its heels, since it was clearly in the wrong. In a similar vein, a social activist studying the double games of the dietary supplements industry, can lead a signature campaign of enough people to constitute a “critical mass” (Alinsky, 6) for taking further action.
Another strategy for radicals is to remain unpredictable to the world view of the oppressor (Alinsky, 31). The important thing is to generate enough confusion, fear and doubt to ensure the opposition always remains about its toes, and is easily misled. In this particular scenario, the radicals may frequently change tactics and play similar deception game that the giant corporations play.
The radical may force the oppressor to live according to their own standards, by playing their rules-game back at them (Alinsky, 31). It is well established that most large corporations live according to a set of rules, and high standards that come with it. It’s often here that the radical may possibly find loopholes to expose the true nature of the beast, and make their offense. For instance, the dietary supplements industry often uses the premise of “freedom of choice” (Alinsky, 31) in their practice of staying away from food labeling. It’s perfectly possible to apply this principle back at them, and forcing them to examine the error of their judgments.
It is also well known that ridicule is a highly potent tool to weaken one’s opposition. Salinsky recognized the sheer potential of making fun of the oppressor, as he saw in it a way for them to react in your favour (Alinsky, 31). For instance, PETA has been known to launch scathing attacks on the meat industry by soliciting human volunteers who disguise themselves as animals that are being led to the slaughter. Not only does it draw public attention to the cause of animal welfare, but it also exposes the meat industry for their own lies and propaganda on their methods of slaughter. The nutrition proponents and other welfare groups can similarly target the supplements industry by exposing their practice of not putting adequate labels on their products. Indeed, ridicule is a highly potent tool of bringing down the opposition, and brings best results.
Changing tactics frequently is another Alinsky device (Alinsky, 31). In order to exert enough pressure on the oppressor, sometimes, a fresh tactic brings best results.
Another Alinsky device is to “keep the pressure on” the opposition (Alinsky, 31). If the cause is genuine, it should not lose steam in any way. In order to ensure that the methods eventually succeed, the radical must keep the opposition on his toes. The supplements industry, led by giant corporations, is as vulnerable to frequent opposition, as any other organization. By frequently keeping the pressure on them, it’s possible to make sure they are not in a position to ignore the threat, and are eventually compelled to accept demands.
Summary
The purpose of enumerating Paul Salinsky’s rules for radicals in the summary is to suggest a possible solution to the health and safety issues discussed in this research paper. going to ensure that the supplements industry is not allowed to go on unregulated, and is held accountable to the government and public safety norms. As a final suggestion, the author advocates scrapping the DSHEA act and replace it with more stringent quality and safety norms for dietary supplements.
Works Cited
Alinsky, Saul David. Rules for Radicals: A Practical Primer for Realistic Radicals. Vintage Books, London, UK: 2009.
Freire, Paulo. Pedagogy of the Oppressed. Continuum International Publishing Group, New York, NY: 2000.
Hollenstein, Jenna. Understanding Dietary Supplements. University Press of Mississippi, Tuscasoola, MS: 2007.
Nestle, Marion. Food Politics: How the Food Industry Affects Nutrition and Health. University of Califonia Press, Los Angeles: 2007.
Porter, Donna Viola. Dietary Supplements: Current Issues. Novinka Books, New York, NY: 2003.
Talbott, Shawn M. A Guide to Understanding Dietary Supplements. The Haworth Press, Inc: Binghamtom, NY, 2003.
Wang, Youfa & Beydoum, May A. “The Obesity Epidemic in the United States Gender, Age, Socioeconomic, Racial/Ethnic and Geographic Characteristics. A Systematic Review and Meta-Regression Analysis.” John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Center for Human Nutrition, 2007.
Young, Iris Marion. Justice and the Politics of Difference. Princeton University Press, Princeton, NJ: 2000.
Dietary supplements consist of herbs, vitamins, minerals, and other elements administered either as pills, capsules, or in liquid form aimed at improving the diet of the consumer. The supplements provide extra units of the components for the body with the intention of meeting the recommended dietary allowance for that component, or with a view of providing other substances believed to be beneficial to health.
According to Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA), the term dietary supplement is collective for a formulation containing a vitamin, mineral, or herb, or concentrates, metabolites, or extracts from the components. The supplements have a profound effect in regulating both biochemical and physiological functions in the body. Unfortunately, not all information regarding the use of supplements is true. Some of the information contains bias, an aspect that increases their popularity due to the promise of enhanced performance and health optimization (Talbott, 2003).
A person taking supplements stands to gather various benefits. Functional foods such as dietary fiber in the supplements promote physiological functions in the body that reduce the risk of colon cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Minerals such as selenium also play a role in neutralizing possible cancer causative agents. Adequate amounts of selenium result from the growth of food materials in soil rich in it. Supplementation of the mineral in the diet is, therefore, a more viable way of ensuring adequate intake. Mineral requirements for elements such as Boron and Tin are hard to meet through a normal, balanced diet.
Supplements containing these components become feasible in obtaining the recommended dietary intake. Supplements are also beneficial in managing certain health conditions. Hormones such as melatonin help maintain healthy sleep patterns for people with low melatonin secretions in their system. Supplements, therefore, provide relief for people who fear not meeting certain dietary allowances for minerals and some vitamins in their diets by mere administration of a pill (Talbott, 2003).
Consequently, supplements may pose a health risk to an individual because of toxicity. Many vitamins and minerals requirements are easily met through the intake of a normal, balanced diet. Supplements may pump in excess of what the body requires for optimal functioning. Toxicity may occur when Vitamins and minerals exceed the upper tolerable limit. Vitamins A, D, E and K are oil soluble and excess proportions are stored in the liver fat.
They are harder to expel from the body than Vitamin C and B complex. Fat accumulation may cause enlargement of the liver, which has severe consequences. Excess of Iodine causes a form of goiter that is harder to treat than the other form caused by low intake. Excess potassium can lead to cardiac arrest due to elevated heartbeat. Sodium is abundant in most processed foods and more so since it is a constituent of common table salt. Excess of sodium in supplements can lead to hypertension and promote excessive water retention in the body leading to Edema (Grosvenor & Smolin, 2006).
Regulations on the administration of supplements remain unclear. The mandate jointly rests on the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Food and Trade Commission (FTC). FDA controls and validates the use of claims during labeling, packaging and preparation of promotional materials given out at point of sale.
All components in the supplement must be clearly labeled indicating their role and possible adverse effects. FTC, on the other hand, regulates claims upon a supplement when advertising. FTC aims at ensuring that consumers receive truthful information from the manufacturers, reinforced by scientific evidence. The regulation protects consumers from deception emanating from the omission of key facts of benefits and possible risks. Whatever an advert says about a supplement must be accurate.
FTC has guidelines for validating claims for ingredients used traditionally. This happens in the field of traditional medicines used consistently across generations for treatment or management of certain health conditions. Section 6 of DSHEA enforces compulsory additional of a disclaimer to statements of nutritional value in supplements.
There is a twist in the regulation process since manufacturers do not need to prove safety of a certain ingredient before introducing it to the market. FDA, on the other hand, must produce proof before restricting sale or imposing withdrawal of any ingredient (Talbott, 2003).
Glucomannan is a soluble fiber supplement administered in aiding weight loss. The fiber absorbs water up to 200 times its weight. When administered, it promotes a feeling of fullness subsequently reducing food intake. In addition, research confirms the supplement lowers levels of low density lipoproteins and cholesterol. The polysaccharide also promotes growth of useful bacterial in the gastrointestinal tract within seven days of administration. This is helpful towards the alleviation of constipation.
Recommended dosage for the supplement is 1g in eight ounces of water one hour before meals. Though effective, Glucomannan can bind and reduce bioavailability of other nutrients. This can be beneficial as it regulates the absorption of glucose. However, it may prove negative for minerals such as iron thus prompting a person to take multivitamins to compensate for binding. On the other hand, high doses may cause diarrhea and flatulence (Talbott, 2003).
References
Grosvenor, M.B. & Smolin, L.A. (2006). Nutrition: Everyday choices.New Jersey: John Wiley & Sons Inc.
Talbott, S.M. (2003). A guide to understanding dietary supplements.New York: The Haworth Press Inc.