The Verdict Is In – Vitamin Supplements Are Placebos

The verdict is in, vitamin supplements are placebos at least under normal conditions…. According to a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology concerning the effectiveness vitamins commonly taken, these powerful supplements are not yet proven to be effective at disease prevention, such as stroke or heart disease, with exception to folic acid which proved to be somewhat effective in reducing the risk of stroke. The efficacy of several supplements  were tested such as Folic Acid, Calcium, Vitamin C & D. They along with multivitamins that were tested neither helped nor hurt the individual taking them. The study was carried out for a little over 5 1/2 years – from January 2012 to October 2017 – and involved 179 controlled trials.

Most of us take vitamins thinking it helps us feel better; however, most studies conducted over the past few years have proven this to not be the case and seem to further reinforce that no health improvements result from taking vitamins unless a nutritional deficiency or condition requiring supplementation exists. So unless you have been told by your physician that you are deficient in a particular vitamin, then your best bet is to skip the supplements and opt for healthier food choices – lots of fruits and vegetables and very little meat.

Bright Greens

Healthy foods coupled with regular exercise for at least 20 minutes, 4 to 5 times in a week, can prove very beneficial to improving your overall health, especially, your heart, as opposed to using supplements (with exception to folic acid). A Meditarrean diet (note: as of June 2018 findings of inconsistency in the study performed claiming health benefits of the Mediterranean diet has )or plant based diet with a small amount of animal protein is the best way to go when it comes to providing your body with the best vitamins and minerals available.

Nature offers the best options, as opposed to synthetic / lab manufactured vitamins and minerals. The body better understands and is able to use nutrients from natural sources, so investing in natural food sources may prove to be better than costly supplements.

NOTE:

As of June 2018, due to findings of inconsistency in the study performed on the health benefits of a Mediterranean Diet, there has been a retraction of this claim, but the Mediterranean Diet is still a great example to follow in regards to building and living a healthy lifestyle.

Disclaimer:

This article is based on research done and on published data from scientific studies conducted. I am not a doctor and the information provided should be used at your discretion. Consult with your physician before making changes that may impact your health negatively or otherwise.