There has always been a lot of belief and scepticism over the benefits of nutritional supplements, but it seems like the debate has become even more of a roller coaster ride in the last few months.
One recent study declared that not only are antioxidant supplements worthless, but research actually points to some of them increasing people's mortality rates.

For the legions of Americans and those around the globe who do take a supplement high in antioxidants, this is fearsome news indeed.

But NBC Today Show nutritionist, Joy Bauer, recently released another interpretation of this study that puts the little pills in a slightly better light. While she does say that most nutrition should come from foods and people should avoid "mega" doses of antioxidants, she does recommend that people fill out their nutrition with multi-vitamins from trusted sources.

From the article:

"That being said, I say people should stop taking MEGA-doses of antioxidants unless there's a real reason for taking them... and that's something to work out with your personal doctor.

On the other hand, I do think most people will benefit from a basic multivitamin to fill in any potential nutrient gaps in their diets (most importantly you'll get 100% daily value for Vitamin D---an important vitamin that most people do not get enough of). Think of it as an "insurance policy."..... Finally, I really like omega-3 fish oil supplements because they're so good for overall heart health. If you don't eat enough omega-3-rich fish---like salmon and sardines---you may want to consider a supplement. Always speak with your physician first."

To find supplements you can trust, she suggests you look for the following:

1. What's on the label is in the bottle---no more, no less.
2. It doesn't contain harmful levels of contaminants.
3. It will break down properly in your body.
4. It has been made under good manufacturing processes.

Keeping sources pure and doses manageable are two things MenScience Omega 3 Supplement Formula and Advanced Antioxidants can definitely fulfill. There's no recipe for long life that can be found in a little pill, but I have a feeling the benefits of nutritional supplements will continue to be debated for years to come.

DG