Overhyped and useless: Doctor warns about popular supplements
Doctor names supplements you don’t need to take (photo: Freepik)
Some dietary supplements lack sufficient scientific evidence, meaning their regular use does not deliver the expected effect and may simply be a waste of money. The list includes collagen, which is widely promoted on social media, according to cardiologist Nataliia Todurova.
Just-in-case multivitamin complexes
According to the doctor, these vitamins are usually present in very small doses and do not even cover the daily requirement. Therefore, their benefit is questionable.
In addition, if a person maintains a balanced diet, the effect is minimal.
“There is generally no need for constant use of these multivitamins,” the physician noted.
It should also be added that multivitamins often contain fixed doses that do not match individual needs and may interfere with each other (for example, minerals compete for absorption).
A more effective approach includes:
- Taking blood tests (e.g., vitamin D, B12, ferritin)
- Supplementing specific vitamins only in the required doses when needed
Detox teas and capsules
It is important to know that the liver and kidneys already perform the body’s natural “detox” function. This is a basic biological process that does not require additional supplements.
For most “detox” products, there is no reliable clinical evidence that they actually cleanse the body or improve health.
The term “detox” in supplements is not medical but promotional. It has no clear scientific definition. Some teas and capsules may contain laxatives, diuretics, or stimulants, which can cause:
- Dehydration
- Electrolyte imbalance
- Digestive issues
- Strain on the liver
Drinkable collagen
The cardiologist explained that most collagen products are not absorbed in the way advertising claims. The most important factors remain sufficient protein intake, proper hydration, and at least 8 hours of sleep per night.
“Do not believe advertising. Supplements and vitamins should be selected individually with a doctor and based on actual deficiencies. With age, a person should develop one more healthy habit, not one more jar,” the message stated.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
