Vitamins & Supplements Archive

Like most vitamins, B₁₂ can't be made by the body and must be gotten from food or supplements. A B₁₂ deficiency –– which might stem from a vegan or vegetarian diet, or problems with absorption due to weight loss surgery or aging –– can seriously harm nerves, mood, thinking, energy, and more.

In December 2021, the FDA warned consumers about an increase in supplements tainted with harmful ingredients, particularly supplements promising male enhancement or weight loss.

A large, randomized Harvard study published online Dec. 21, 2021, by JAMA found that taking fish oil supplements didn't prevent depression in otherwise healthy older adults.

500 to 700 milligrams of calcium through diet and 800 to 1,000 of vitamin D as a supplement should be adequate to preserve bone density.

Probiotics can be helpful in some cases, but it's unclear whether they are safe for all older adults.

Protecting the skin from the sun doesn't increase the risk of vitamin D deficiency or bone fracture, according to a recent study.

Naturally occurring plant compounds called stanols can help reduce cholesterol. But they may not be found in large enough amounts in butter substitutes to reduce cholesterol levels in the body. The best way to lower is cholesterol is still by eating a plant-based diet with more fruits and vegetables and less processed foods, reducing consumption of saturated fat, and working to maintain a healthy weight.

The Federal Trade Commission called on companies to issue refunds to people who purchased anti-aging products due to unsubstantiated marketing claims.

A recent analysis found evidence mixed on whether zinc can help prevent or treat a cold. However, there appears to be no significant harm from taking over-the-counter zinc products in safe amounts per the label's instructions.

Stimulant medications, which are usually prescribed to treat attention deficit disorder in children, are being prescribed increasingly to older adults. These drugs may cause a short-term spike in the risk of heart-related problems, including heart attacks, strokes, and arrhythmias. Dietary supplements that promise weight loss or better physical or mental performance may contain prohibited, unlisted, and potentially dangerous stimulants.