Are your Vitamins Effective?

Many people take a daily multi-vitamin. And many parents give multi-vitamins to their children. Most people that take vitamins take them in order to improve their health. They think they can trust that vitamins will do just this - improve their health. But what many people don't know is that the government does not test or regulate vitamins as they do prescription drugs.

Independent Companies that Test Products and Vitamins

Consumerlab.com is an independent company that tests health and nutrition products. Dr. Todd Cooperman, the President of Consumerlab.com, recently testified before Congress that one out of every four vitamins does not live up to its claims. Vitamins are useful, but taking the right ones poses a problem right off the bat. The numbers on the back of the bottle are based on 1968 research. In some cases, the levels are too high and can be harmful, for example, too much Vitamin A can actually cause bone weakening. Cooperman suggests talking to your doctor.

Calcium brands, on the other hand, usually have what their label represents. Cooperman suggests that you buy calcium tablets with Vitamin D, which helps the body to absorb the calcium. No matter what vitamin you take, it has to dissolve in your stomach in order to be absorbed.

Cooperman has developed a simple test that we can all try at home. Drop your vitamin into a glass of warm vinegar. Within fifteen to twenty minutes, it should start to dissolve. If your vitamin does not dissolve, then you might want to consider purchasing a different brand.

Glucosamine and Chondroitin

Studies show that glucosamine and chondroitin are the fastest growing supplement and are effective for arthritis and joint pain. But chondroitin is expensive. If you can get it too cheaply, be weary of it.

Gummy Vitamins for Kids

Some gummy vitamins for kids contain lead, even though it is below the general guidelines set by the FDA. Although an expert on lead has stated that there could be potential damage and any lead is not a good idea. Many mothers simply are not willing to take this risk and have decided not to give these supplements to their children.

Eat a Balanced Diet

It has been found that the vitamins found naturally in foods are most abundant in the outer coverings of the germ and grains, and in fruits and vegetables. They are also present in fresh milk, butter, meats and soy. Just eating the right food containing vitamins, minerals, roughage and bulk is as important as having purchased the correct vitamin supplements.

Organic Foods are Best

Processed foods are full of chemicals, refined sugar and other additives that are not healthy. The best solution to this problem is to eat fresh, organic foods. Some grocery stores charge a premium for "organic" foods, but others such as HEB, offer organic foods at a reasonable price. Organic milk, for example, does not have hormones which unnaturally affect your body. Many fruits and vegetables contain chemicals and hormones to make them grow faster and last longer. These chemicals and hormones destroy nutritional value. By eating organic foods, on the other hand, your body will get the vitamins and nutrients it needs.