Investigation of Dietary
Supplement/Alternative Health Method
Over the past several years it has
become popular for Americans to consume a variety of dietary supplements in an
attempt to improve health, prolong life, or enhance vitality. Though companies that market these supplements often make substantial health
claims about their products, the supplements are not considered drugs, and
consequently may be sold over-the-counter. Much of the evidence in support of
the effectiveness of the supplements consists of testimonials, rather than of
results of controlled scientific experiments. In such cases, the effectiveness
of the supplements is questionable. In other cases, however, the supplements do
have documented effects, but because they are not prescribed by a physician,
there is no way for a consumer to understand possible adverse side-effects or
be aware of possible harmful interactions with other chemicals. Another
potential problem associated with the availability of the supplements is
dosing; because they are not controlled, consumers are free to determine their
own dosage (if a small amount of the supplement is good for me, then a large
amount should be even better--right?)
Select one from among the list of
dietary supplements below. Using the Internet, learn about the health-benefit
claims made on behalf of the supplement. Evaluate these claims. (See Evaluation of a Claim). Would you consume the
supplement? Why or why not? Are there any possible adverse side-effects
associated with use of the supplement? In a one page summary of your
investigation, include the following:
1. The health claims made about the
supplement.
2. The explanation for the claims (how
does it work?)
3. The nature of the evidence in
support of the claims (is it scientific, is it anecdotal, is
it testimonial?)
4. Has scientific research been
conducted to evaluate the claims?
5. Are adverse side-effects possible?
6. Would you take the supplement? Why
or why not?
echinacea, zinc tablets, androstenedione,
DHEA, creatine, chondroitin,
ginseng,
***Instead of investigating a dietary supplement, you may investigate the claims of an alternative heath practice. Follow the same guidelines for your write-up. Obviously, questions about over-dosing and adverse side-effects do not really apply. Please include information about whether or not health care professionals (physicians, nurses, etc.) in the tristate area make use of this alternative practice as a part of a "integrative" approach to health care. Examples: chiropractic, acupuncture, therapeutic touch, aroma therapy, magnetic therapy