Research before taking Dietary Supplements

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt Jessica Bludau
  • NCOIC Nutritional Medicine
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  With the implementation of the new physical training standards Airmen are determined to excel on their scores and are looking toward supplements for added benefits. Dietary supplements have been on the market for years but only recently have they become a trend. Most people buy supplements to enhance their athletic performance, lose weight, gain weight, or increase their energy levels. It is highly probable that most consumers never know exactly what ingredients are in a product and if it is even effective. I have examined three popular dietary supplements in order to help individuals make an informed decision on whether or not these products are right for them.

USP Labs Pink Magic claims a person will be able to build lean muscle mass, increase strength, improve endurance, heal the muscles from past wear and tear, and help individuals improve performance. One thing to consider when deciding whether or not you want to invest in this supplement is the effectiveness claimed on the label. Pink Magic is a new product to the supplement world; therefore, there is insufficient reliable information available about its effectiveness. According to USP Labs the main ingredients called Nelumbo Nucifera or Lotus works by inhibiting various subtypes of enzymes which degrades nucleotide molecules which serve an important role in the human body. By inhibiting enzymes in skeletal muscle it is thought that an anti-catabolic effect can be seen by suppressing calcium. Slowing the breakdown of protein makes it easier to put on new muscle. The problem with Pink Magic is that has only been tested on animals resulting in a lack of evidence supporting its effectiveness and safety.

Jack3d is a pre- workout powder designed to give the most focused, intense, and pumped workouts without unnecessary "filler" ingredients. The two main ingredients that could possibly lead to the effectiveness of Jack3d are caffeine and creatine. Caffeine has many effects on the body's metabolism, including the central nervous system; however, it does not increase performance when lifting or sprinting. It makes people more alert and gives them a boost of energy. A cup of coffee, depending on the size, can have anywhere between 90-150mg of caffeine. Jack3d won't release the official amount of caffeine in the product but claims one scoop has fewer than 150mg of caffeine. Is it worth spending money on a product for a burst of energy when you can receive the same effect with a less expensive alternative? Creatine's most notable trait is its ability to stimulate muscle growth. Creatine gets stored in the muscles creating a "volumized" look. This begs the question of whether or not Jack3d has enough creatine to make a real difference in the body. Doses of pure creatine typically range from between 2 and 25 grams per day for an average framed male. The proprietary blend in Jack3d includes creatine but not enough to benefit a person. So if the intention is to gain muscle mass off creatine the odds are it won't happen by taking Jack3d alone.

OxyELITE Pro has quickly become one of the fastest selling fat burners on the market. Customers looking for a quick fix or to piggy back on a diet and exercise program are drawn to this product with the hope it will aid in weight loss. This product could possibly be effective due to the amounts of caffeine and brahmi in it. Each capsule contains 100mg of caffeine with the recommended daily amount being 2-3 capsules. These capsules are to be consumed prior to eating breakfast and again six hours later. The effects the caffeine creates will promote energy and possible appetite loss due to the hyperactivity caffeine produces. Brahmi enhances cognitive function and supports the physiological processes involved in relaxation. Combined these ingredients give consumers energy and not necessarily weight loss. When taken appropriately neither product is proven to be unsafe. The bottom line is that a pill will not create weight loss.

Weight loss is obtained through exercise and a healthy diet of protein, whole grain, dairy, fruits and vegetables. Remember that hard work and dedication are key components in accomplishing a weight loss goal.

The Food and Drug Administration does not monitor supplement claims for accuracy. The FDA has to prove that a supplement is not safe before it can be removed from shelves resulting in overwhelming amounts of unsafe and ineffective supplements. If using a supplement is a decision you are considering ensure you follow the appropriate dosage and timeline for that supplement, talk to your primary care provider prior to use, and beware of potential interactions between prescription drugs and multiple supplements. Reading the ingredient list and doing research will help guide your decision and determine if that supplement is the best choice.

If you have questions regarding supplements please call Staff Sgt. Jessica Bludau or the Nutritional Medicine Clinic at 827-9360.