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Dietary supplements Updated 10 May 2008

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Thank you Consumer Posted by: Jimpy 09 Jul 2011 8:13am

Thanks Consumer for providing this report. I read with interest people's comments justifying the need to 'pop' pills.

Targeted supliments Posted by: Michael Ibbotson 07 Jul 2011 5:42pm

Hi Jessica
It is a pity that "Consumer" neglects to mention that New Zealand soils are unfortunately deficient in certain crucial minerals and (some) trace elements necessary for optimum human (and in some cases: animal)nutrition.In addition, soils almost everywhere have been depleted by modern farming practices. Also, our ability to absorb nutrients may not be efficient as it once was, esp for the elderly.The main issue is proper diagnosis for the individual, as we are all different. Then, the targeted approach should follow or else many people will adopt a "Hit and miss" approach and waste thir money with little benefit to their health. As a first step,find a top quality naturopath and stick with them and only use "top" brands is my advice.

thanks Posted by: Emal Saba 30 Mar 2010 4:56am

Hi Jessica
excuse my ignorant! I was reading the same research papers and reports on omega3 fish oil, and I thank you that I found the information I needed, in your web site.

Think again!! Posted by: zorgon09 15 Oct 2009 4:16pm

I am sorry to see that 'Consumer' is offering such limited advice to the public on nutritional matters, and is only following the 'status quo' advice given by those in the medical system whose very occupations are closely tied to the major drug companies, therefore sharing the same aims and alliances.
Fortunately Naturopaths in NZ have a wealth of knowledge and experience in helping people to heal with nutrition, both through diet and supplements and much more. Also, there are plenty of studies available to back up their experiences.
Please, could we please have more of a balanced view in the future!

Reply 1: Posted by: Emal Saba 21 Mar 2010 11:14pm

Hi, I agree with your comment, I was expecting that consumer will advise public on the quality of some nutritional products such as vitamins and compare prices and quality rather than given a political advice?!!
I m not aware of consumer recent research and readings on the topic of vitamins and mental health, but from my own readings and research on peer review and deviance based papers it is suggested that vitamins play an impotent role in recovery of people with mood disorder and schizophrenia. I am looking forwered to new report

Reply 2: Posted by: Consumer Staff 23 Mar 2010 1:56pm

Hi there,

Thanks for your comments. Consumer has published reports on some specific dietary supplements. Reports on omega-3 fish oil supplements, glucosamine supplements and vitamin D deficiency are available online.

You may also be interested in our report on drug marketing, which is available at http://www.consumer.org.nz/reports/drug-marketing

Kind regards,

Jessica Wilson
Research writer

Reply 3: Posted by: R A Fleming 01 Aug 2010 3:27pm

To maintain health we need a diversity of vitamins and minerals,biflavonoids and other nutrients.Its vertually impossible to obtain an optimal dose though diet alone.Its important to choose high quality vitamins that supply the correct amount in the right balance and in correct forms.They need to be bioavailable in a form the body can absorb.Even mainstream medical authorities agree its prudent to take nutritional supplements to protect health.Its like a health insurance.Unfortunately your natural defence system finds it increasingly differcult to cope with the the levels of av radiation,pollution,chemicals and toxins that we are exposed to today.Supporting the body with quality suppliments can bolster the bodys own natural antioxidant defence system therefore reducing free radical damage which leads to age related disease.