Dr Amir Khan has issued a cautionary warning about certain dietary supplements, highlighting that the industry lacks proper regulation. Speaking on ITV's Lorraine show, the doctor expressed concerns that consumers may not be getting what they expect from these products.
Gummy Supplements: A Double-Edged Sword
Dr Khan noted that while gummy supplements can encourage regular intake because they taste like sweets, they pose risks. "The danger with gummies is they can contain sugar and sweetness, which is a bad thing if you have too much," he said. He added that their palatable taste might lead people to consume excessive amounts, potentially causing an overdose.
Lack of Regulation in the Supplement Industry
Highlighting broader issues, Dr Khan stated: "The problem with the supplement industry as a whole is that it's not regulated in the same way medicines are. So we don't know exactly how much of everything is in these things." He referenced studies showing that some supplements contain 10 to 12 times the recommended dose, while others contain very little.
Recommended Supplements
Despite his warnings, Dr Khan endorsed three supplements backed by evidence: vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and creatine. "Those are the only three I take," he said. He advised consulting a GP before starting any new supplement regimen.
The body relies on vitamins and minerals for optimal function, ideally obtained from a balanced diet. However, many people turn to supplements to maintain adequate levels, underscoring the need for caution and informed choices.
