Threaders,
The following was on the "Ask Dr. Weil" web site. It is the question of the day for today. It might be gone by tomorrow, so I am copying it here.
cgi.pathfinder.com
TODAY'S QUESTION
Q. I know you say to look for standardized ingredients in
supplements, but there are so many different products I don't
know what to look for or where to look. Do you have any pointers on how to read these labels?
-- Anonymous
You're not alone in your confusion. That's why starting this month dietary supplement labels must carry "Supplement Facts," panels similar to the "Nutrition Facts" panels you've seen on packaged foods. This labeling change is required by DSHEA, the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994, which requires that the following information be presented in a clear and consistent format:
Statement of identity (what it is exactly).
The net quantity of the contents (i.e., 100 tablets).
A structure-function claim such as "calcium builds strong bones" or "fiber maintains bowel regularity" with an accompanying statement that the claim has "not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease." With the words "dietary supplements" clearly displayed.
Dosage directions and active ingredients.
Other ingredients in descending order of predominance and by common name or proprietary blend.
Name and place of business of the manufacturer, packer or distributor (so that consumers will know where to go for more information).
The new labeling information is intended to distinguish supplements from drugs, which require FDA evaluation and approval prior to marketing. Under DSHEA any supplement that claims to be a treatment or cure for a specific disease or condition is considered an unapproved (and therefore illegal) drug.
To my way of thinking, the new labeling rules unnecessarily restrict consumer access to information about supplements. For example, labels can't carry claims that a supplement can affect signs or symptoms of any kind of disease, including natural conditions of aging. For example, information that a supplement "lowers cholesterol," "eases arthritis pain" or "relieves symptoms of menopause" is prohibited on the grounds that such claims suggests that the supplement acts like a drug.
It's too bad that the FDA isn't permitting supplement manufacturers to make claims that have been scientifically validated. That can change, of course, if enough consumers exert enough pressure on the FDA through their elected representatives in Congress, and I urge you to do so.
Dr. Andrew Weil
I would love to see Dr. Weil put in a recommendation for BioFIT certified products. I may be dreaming, but could you imagine what would happen if there was a link from his site to the New Century Nutrition site?
Robin |
