Are Mega-Doses Of Vitamins Safe?

In today's health-conscious society, much attention has been paid to vitamin supplementation and the role it plays in total body health. In addition to promoting optimum wellness, vitamin supplements are taken for reasons such as protecting the heart, reducing the risk of cancer, boosting the immune
system, relieving the symptoms of PMS, alleviating depression and anxiety, improving the memory, and even weight loss.

There have been some publicized theories that advocate the use of extremely high doses, or mega-doses, of certain vitamins. Care should be taken when considering this kind of supplementation. While some vitamins are safe in large doses, others can be harmful. Here are the most commonly used
vitamins and the safest maximum doses for each:

Vitamin A - Vitamin A is a fat-soluble compound that is crucial for healthy vision, cell growth, and immune system function. Vitamin A should not be taken in excess of 10,000 IU which is twice the daily recommended allowance for adults.

Vitamin B6 - Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin that is required for protein metabolism, the delivery of oxygen to cells, and the regulation of blood glucose. Excessive Vitamin B6 can cause debilitating and dangerous nerve damage. Do not exceed 100 mg of Vitamin B6 per day.

Vitamin B12 - Vitamin B12 is essential to healthy red blood cells and nerve cells in the body. Vitamin B12 also plays a vital role in the creation of human DNA. Although this compound is well-tolerated and has a low level of toxicity, it is recommended that you do not exceed 3,000 mcg per day.

Folic Acid - Folic acid contributes to the development of DNA, and is also needed for the metabolism of important amino acids. It is especially crucial for pregnant women. Folic acid has a low toxicity level, however the recommended maximum dose for adults is 1,000 mcg.

Vitamin C - Vitamin C is necessary for the production of collagen, growth and repair of the body's tissues, and a healthy immune system. However, too much Vitamin C can cause harmful oxidation in the body. No more than 2000 mg per day should be consumed.

Vitamin D - Vitamin D is essential for normal levels of phosphorus and calcium in the blood. Vitamin D is an important contributor to strong bones and teeth. Excessive Vitamin D intake (more than 10,000 IU) can lead to bone pain, nausea, vomiting, and even kidney stones.

Vitamin E - Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps protect the body against free radicals. However taking more than 1,000 mg can cause heart problems and excessive bleeding.

Talk to your doctor to learn more about the safe dosage levels of vitamin compounds. It’s not always a good idea to buy into the latest health fads, or to believe the sales copy you read on the product bottle.

Are Liquid Supplements Right For Your Healthy Diet?

Liquid nutrition products like Ensure (tm) and Boost (tm) have been used almost exclusively in nursing homes and hoispitals, until recently. Lately we have seen nutritional companies marketing these drinks to people of all ages and all stages of health.

Liquid supplements are supposed to be the answer for busy moms running around with the kids, business people running out the door out without time for a sit-down breakfast, and older adults wanting to insure that they will be able to enjoy their grandchildren. But what do these liquid nutrion product really offer?

In general, these supplements are composed of water, sugar, milk and soy proteins, oils, vitamins, and minerals. An 8-ounce can generally has 250 calories, and the deluxe version may have as many as 355 calories. Most are lactose free, some have added fiber, and some are specifically designed for children or adults with certain health problems.

These companies are also selling supplements in the form of pudding cups and candy bar type products, with varous nutrientional content.

What nutritional need are companies trying to help consumers answer? Below are some of the reasons companies give for buying their products.

These companies ad campaigns are using fear tactics to make you worry that you are not getting proper nutrition from your ordinary meals. True, some people are consuming less than the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for some nutrients, this doesn't mean they will develop a deficiency disease. If you truly feel you are not getting enough nutrients from your food, you should contact a registered dietitian or a KSU Extension Specialist in nutrition. They can help you determine your needs for additional supplements.

These “Eat on The run” Liquid supplements may be a quick way to get vitamins, minerals and protein, but there is more needed for good health! Scientists continue to discover new ingredienets in foods that provide health benefits. Consider this; the canned supplements have a severe lack of fiber and other healthy components but are really high in sugars and calories. Although this was ideal for the original intent of the products, most healthy consumers don’t want or need all the extra calories that the supplement provides.

In summary, while there is a need for liquid nutritional supplements in some medical conditions, these products are unnecessary for the average, healthy person. In addition, one must consider the cost of an 8 once can of these liquid supplements to determine if they should be included in their dietary regimen.