Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Support Group
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) describes a sense of exhaustion and post-exertion malaise, even when you have gotten enough rest and sleep. The disease is characterized by six months of incapacitating fatigue experienced as profound exhaustion and extremely poor stamina, and problems with concentration and short-term memory. The cause is unknown, but it is a...
Are you guys following the news about supplements and what do you think? The testing has just begun.
"DNA tests on some store-brand herbal supplements showed that nearly four of five didnt have the ingredients listed on the labels, and a large number didnt have a botanical substance of any kind, according to findings from the New York state attorney generals office.
In addition, 35% of the product tests identified DNA bar codes from plant species not listed on the labels, representing contaminants and fillers, according to Schneiderman. Some of the contaminants identified include rice, beans, pine, citrus, asparagus, primrose, wheat, houseplant, wild carrot, and others, his office said. In many cases, unlisted contaminants were the only plant material found in the product samples. "
"DNA tests on some store-brand herbal supplements showed that nearly four of five didnt have the ingredients listed on the labels, and a large number didnt have a botanical substance of any kind, according to findings from the New York state attorney generals office.
In addition, 35% of the product tests identified DNA bar codes from plant species not listed on the labels, representing contaminants and fillers, according to Schneiderman. Some of the contaminants identified include rice, beans, pine, citrus, asparagus, primrose, wheat, houseplant, wild carrot, and others, his office said. In many cases, unlisted contaminants were the only plant material found in the product samples. "
By eating a diet loaded with fresh veggies from my garden, I don't feel I need any nutritional supplementation. The best nutrition is always real food, in my opinion. Most people eat way too much junk. I'm vegan and I don't eat anything that's sweet. Sugar is not needed for nutrition at all...it used to be found only in the homes of the rich...where it was kept in locked cabinets.
Now people say they can't live without it...that in itself is creepy.
It all depends on who was doing that report. If ist's an article funded by a pharmaceutical company I'd be very suspect as to their motives to discredit supplements. However, I am cynical enough to believe that this may be somewhat true. It all depends on the brand and manufacturer. I REALLY trust my Naturopath and the brands that he uses as he does a great deal of study on the ingredients, their costs, and quality control. He also makes a few of his own things that have been very helpful for me. The ones he often uses are Standard Process (you can order those on-line, but not available in most stores), Thorne (usually have to get through an herb or homeopathic shop), NOW, Ecological Formulas, Physician's Choice and Vitanica. It really boils down to finding a practitiioner that understands this stuff and if you trust that person, use what she or he suggests. A good herbal store who has knowledgable herbalists or nutritionists working there may be a good resource. Or acupuncturists often have a good read on these things as well. I try not to take any more supplements than necessary and try to eat lots of greens and fruits to get as much nutrition from organic food, but for specific issues I need supplements. I rely on my trusted ND and acupuncturist for their help.
Good luck! It sure can be a confusing thing, trying to sort out what is true quality from just another product on the shelf at the store. Hang in There!
http://www.washingtonpost.com/news/morning-mix/wp/2015/02/03/gnc-target-wal-mart-walgreens-accused-of-selling-fake-herbals/
But many other reports on this besides the Washington Post.
Some supplements I really depend on like Vit D. There was a time when I was spending about $50 a month on supplements. Money down the drain.
I know many of you out there are taking a lot of supplements so I urge you to read the report as it lists the manufacturers as well as the supplements tested. You will know what to stay away from.
Supplements cured a few health problems I had been suffering with for years and have helped others. Wish it had cured my CFS. :(
With my IBS I don't think I get the nutrients I need from food. I eat pretty well, but guess it could always be better. I love to cook.