Questions about supplements

It only takes about three minutes of searching through the aisles of a nutritional supplement store to realize that the variety of choices can be dizzying. Consequently, there seems to be no end to questions about vitamin supplements from HSI members.

No problem. We’ve got HSI Panelist Allan Spreen, M.D., in the house, standing by with the answers.

Today we have two questions that go together nicely. Question one comes from a member named Hank who writes:

“In choosing a multi-vitamin/mineral supplement, how much more absorption does a person get by using the liquid form over the capsule/pill form? I’ve heard that much of the pill goes through the body without being dissolved and absorbed?”

And a member named Kevin provides question two:

“What are the differences between time-released vitamins and regular one? Is time-released better than regular? Do you get more benefits from, or absorb more of the vitamins and minerals from the time-released pills?”

Both are very good questions, and Dr. Spreen starts off by addressing Hank’s first:

“There are a few (read that a FEW) pill forms that break down quickly, but they are rare. I always use capsule, powder or liquid forms whenever possible, as they at least guarantee that the individual gets what he swallows (whether the dose is adequate is another issue).

“For the same reason I don’t use time-release forms, as you’re then using a preparation deliberately designed not to give its contents to you. I prefer to have the individual be his own ‘time-releaser’ by multiple dosing throughout the day.

“One caveat to what preparation is used is to make certain you know the dose amounts of the contents. Some products hedge on that, and as good as they may be, you have no way of evaluating just what you’re paying for.”

Sound advice, as always, from Dr. Spreen – clearing up all of your supplement questions one (and sometimes two) at a time.

To Your Good Health,

Jenny Thompson
Health Sciences Institute