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Supplements: questions to ask to reduce confusion^1,2,3

¹ From the Department of Food Sciences and Human Nutrition, University of Florida, Gainesville.

Written and oral statements concerning supplements are delivered daily to audiences that span the full spectrum of demographics. Yet the common reaction of these audiences to these statements is that they are receiving mixed messages. One source of this confusion could be greatly reduced if each statement concerning supplements always defined the specific parameters of the studies on which the statement is based. Those receiving information about supplements must be made aware that extrapolation of data for one form of a supplement to predict the result of another form many be harmful to one's health. If a statement concerning a supplement does not clearly define the route of delivery, its matrix, the quantity of compound, the purity of compound, and the physiologic condition of the recipient, the statement should be disregarded by all audiences. If the creators of all types of supplement information define these parameters, and if audiences critically review the information provided, confusion concerning supplements will be reduced.

Key Words: Dietary supplement • carnitine • public health