Natural Products Association Defends Continued Use of Multivitamins

WASHINGTON, Dec. 18, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The Natural Products Association (NPA) is the leading representative of the dietary supplement industry with more than 2,000 members, including suppliers and retailers of vitamins and other dietary supplements. Senior Vice President of Scientific and Regulatory Affairs, Cara Welch, Ph.D., is available for comment to refute an editorial published in the Annals of Internal Medicine that encourages consumers to avoid taking vitamin and mineral supplements.

Cara Welch, Ph.D.: "The authors of this editorial base their argument against vitamins and minerals on the premise that most supplements do not prevent chronic disease or death. But the authors' hypothesis is flawed in that multivitamins are not intended to cure chronic disease or prevent death solely on their own. They are designed to address nutrient deficiencies, and to aid in the general health and well-being of consumers. Multivitamins are not meant to serve as the answer to all of life's ailments; they are, however, an important piece of the puzzle in leading a healthy lifestyle. 

"Dietary supplements are overwhelmingly safe, as even the studies the authors referenced in this editorial generally found no indication of harm from supplementation outside of some high-dose therapies. In fact, the trials the authors cited even demonstrated benefits in some instances, specifically a reduced risk of cancer in the Physicians' Health Study II trial. Vitamin and mineral supplements are an excellent source of nutrition for those who don't eat a complete diet, and consumers should not feel they are wasting their money." 

For more on the benefits of dietary supplements and other natural products, visit NPAinfo.org.

Natural Products Association

The Natural Products Association (NPA) is the trade association representing the entire natural products industry. We advocate for our members who supply, manufacture and sell natural ingredients or products for consumers. NPA promotes the growth and success of the industry through the establishment of industry standards and ethical business practices. Founded in 1936, NPA represents over 2,000 members accounting for more than 10,000 locations of retailers, manufacturers, wholesalers and distributors of natural products, including foods, dietary supplements, and health/beauty aids. Visit www.NPAinfo.org.

SOURCE Natural Products Association