2. Are higher doses of vitamins better?
Let the debate begin. According to Lieberman, the government's reference daily intakes (RDI) are minimum-wage nutrition. "They don't take into account that vitamins can treat, mitigate and prevent disease," she says.
Taking high levels of niacin (vitamin B3), for example, can lower cholesterol. The catch? For some people, megadosing on niacin can cause liver inflammation. A more common reaction is flushing -- redness, burning and tingling of the face.
Also, excess fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E and K don't get excreted like water-soluble vitamins, so they can build up in the body's fat tissues and the liver and potentially cause harm.
In reality, however, toxicity is rare.
Your best bet: Don't take matters into your own hands. Instead, consult with your health care practitioner for your particular needs."Our society thinks more is better," says Jill Place, a Los Angeles-based nutritionist and registered dietitian. "I don't believe in therapeutic doses of vitamins unless someone needs them for specific illnesses."
©2007 Revolution Health Group, LLC.Labels: health, supplements |
