Vitamins & Supplements Archive

The approach to certain blood tests appears to be shifting. Doctors might stop ordering routine vitamin D screenings for healthy people younger than 75; they might order a one-time combination of lipoprotein(a), C-reactive protein, and LDL (bad) cholesterol tests as a way to predict future heart problems; and they might rely less on standard ranges designated as "normal" in a complete blood count (CBC) test, and instead focus more on comparing someone's latest CBC results to previous CBC tests.

Doctors are rethinking their recommendations about a supplement used to help slow dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). They're advising people to keep taking the pill even when they reach the late stage of the disease. Previously, the supplement—a cocktail of antioxidant nutrients known as the AREDS2 formula—was believed to slow disease progression only in the beginning and intermediate stages of dry AMD. New evidence suggests the supplement might also slow vision loss in late-stage dry AMD.

Men need adequate amounts of daily protein to help manage age-related muscle mass. While most of their protein should come from food to ensure they get the required nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals, adding protein powder to their diet can help meet their daily quota. Depending on the brand, a single scoop of powder can offer 15 to 30 grams of protein per serving and can be mixed with water or milk or added to a smoothie.

In the US, supplements are not tested in the way prescription medicines are, and their manufacturers can make claims about their abilities that may or may not be true. But there are some rules supplement makers must follow, and the FDA's plan to revamp its regulation of dietary supplements is a step toward improving consumer protection.

There are no health benefits to taking a daily calcium supplement in addition to the amount of calcium a person gets from a regular well-balanced diet. Too much calcium from supplements can lead to problems, like a higher risk of kidney stones and poor absorption of micronutrients.