Assignment: Investigation of Dietary Supplement or an
Alternative Health Method
Over the past several years it has become popular for Americans to consume a
variety of dietary supplements in an attempt to improve health, prolong life, or enhance vitality. Though companies that market these supplements often make substantial health claims about their products, the supplements are not considered to be drugs by the federal government, and consequently may be sold over-the-counter. Much of the evidence in support of the effectiveness of the supplements consists of testimonials, rather than of results of controlled scientific experiments. In such cases, the effectiveness of the supplements is questionable. In other cases, however, the supplements do have documented effects, but because they are not prescribed by a physician, there is no way for a consumer to understand possible adverse side-effects or be aware of possible harmful interactions with other chemicals. Another potential problem associated with the availability of the supplements is dosing; because they are not controlled, consumers are free to determine their own dosage (if a small amount of the supplement is good for
me, then a large amount should be even better--right?)
Select one from among the list of dietary supplements below, or choose an unlisted one with the approval of your instructor. Using the Internet, learn about the health-benefit claims made on behalf of the supplement. Evaluate these claims. (See Evaluation of a Claim). Would you consume the supplement? Why or why not? Are there any possible adverse side-effects associated with use of the supplement? In a brief MS PowerPoint summary of your investigation, include the following:
1. The health claims made about the supplement.
2. The explanation for the claims (how does it work?)
3. The nature of the evidence in support of the claims (is it scientific, is it
anecdotal, is it testimonial?)
4. Has scientific research been conducted to evaluate the claims?
5. Are adverse side-effects possible?
6. Would you take the supplement? Why or why not?
7. Possible examples: echinacea, ephedra, zinc tablets, androstenedione, DHEA,
creatine, chondroitin, ginseng, melatonin, St. John’s wort, kava kava root,
eucalyptus oil, or other approved by your instructor or endorsed by that
huckster Dr. Oz.
Instead of investigating a dietary supplement, you may investigate the claims of an alternative heath practice. Follow the same guidelines for your presentation. Obviously, questions about over-dosing and adverse side-effects do not really apply. Please include information about whether or not health care professionals (physicians, nurses, etc.) in the Oregon area make use of this alternative practice as a part of an approach to health care. Examples: chiropractic, acupuncture, therapeutic touch, aroma therapy, magnetic therapy, iridology, reflexology.