Do Vitamins and Supplements Really Work?

There are many different opinions on the topic of supplements and their efficacy. Some people are determined to believe that supplements are a waste of money with no health benefits whatsoever, while others take them like clockwork. 

The two most common arguments against supplements are:

1. If you eat a balanced diet, there’s no need for extra supplements.
2. Supplements don’t work.

In this installment of the TRANSCEND video series, Dr. Terry Grossman speaks directly to these two arguments and explains the purpose and widespread benefits of supplementation.

Dr. Grossman counters the first critique with a simple fact: many Americans aren’t meeting even the minimum Recommended Dietary Allowances. Minerals, though commonly overlooked, are key factors in daily wellness and productivity. Many Americans are deficient in minerals like zinc, iron, and calcium. This deficiency can lead to fatigue, osteoporosis, immune disorders, and other widespread problems. Vitamin deficiencies are also unfortunately common. 93% of Americans don’t get enough Vitamin E in their diets, while 33% are lacking Vitamin C, and 42% are deficient in Vitamin D. 

To this point, studies have shown that supplementation with multivitamins and minerals can help address micronutrient inadequacies among adults and children. Calcium and Vitamin D supplementation also appears to be linked to reduced hip fractures among post-menopausal women — something to keep in mind when considering some of menopause’s natural symptoms.  

Learn more about why Vitamin D is a crucial part of your diet.

Supplements Do Work

According to the Physicians' Health Study, the risk of recurrence among men with a history of cancer is 27% lower among those who use multivitamin supplements. The same study showed an association between vitamin and mineral supplementation and a reduced risk of coronary vascular disease in female participants as well. 

Supplements can have a lasting effect, even years after the initial intake. 12 years after the conclusion of a Swedish study, a group who regularly took supplements saw a 40% reduction in mortality compared to the placebo group. The length of time in which the effects of the supplements lasted suggest that they can lead to improved longevity.

 Benefits of Supplements

• Increased energy
• Slowing of bone loss
• Reduced migraines
• Improvements in congestive heart failure
• Improvements with rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and depression

If you’re looking to start building a healthier lifestyle that leads to increased longevity, consider supplementation. Finding the right supplements can be confusing, so instead of guessing, use the Personal Health Quiz to determine which supplements will suit you best.