According to the Nutrition Business Journal, the global nutrition industry was valued at $150 billion (R1.1 trillion) in 2001, with nutritional supplements representing $50.4bn.
From a local perspective, the SA vitamin and dietary supplements industry was valued at an estimated $84.4 million in 2005 with an annual growth projection of 7 percent until 2010.
“The industry’s growth clearly indicates that consumers are paying an increasing amount of attention to their daily nutritional needs and are addressing most dietary shortcomings with supplements. The vast amount of information available at the click of a button further drives this trend, and we’re seeing more and more consumers ‘taking control’ of their health without consulting a health-care professional,” said Dr Org Strauss, medical adviser to Resolution Health Medical Scheme.
However, recent adverse reactions, even deaths, in the US, have again raised concerns over the safety of supplements.
“There are many constituents in ordinary foods that are yet to be identified or researched for their biological effects and health benefits, let alone the appropriate amounts and combinations.
“The inadequacy of our present knowledge and complex nature of foods was recently demonstrated in an animal study where a group of rats that were fed known substances for optimal growth developed cancer. The group of rats receiving normal food remained cancer-free,” Strauss said.
He also pointed out that the various interactions between different nutrients and drugs could have dire consequences.
“For example, high doses of vitamin E can enhance the effect of coumarin anti-coagulant medication, which prevents clots from forming inside the heart and blood vessels. The consequences could be fatal,” he stresses.
Other common interactions include a high calcium intake, which inhibits the absorption of iron and zinc supplements, decreasing the body’s copper status and leading to a reduced immune response. Zinc is also known to reduce plasma high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels. Also known as “good” cholesterol, medical experts believe HDL carries cholesterol away from the heart and back to the liver, where it is passed from the body.
“It is of utmost importance that you consult your doctor or dietitian before stocking up on vitamins, minerals and supplements.
“These nutrients do not replace a balanced diet… numerous studies show that natural fruits and vegetables are far superior to anything you will find in a bottle and a balanced diet remains the safest way of ensuring optimal health,” said Strauss. - The Mercury