Topic > Dietary Supplements and Prescriptions - 736

Dietary supplements are a product you eat or drink. These are products manufactured with the intention of aiding a person's health and well-being. There are thousands of supplements on the market and a consumer may wonder which product will help. First, according to the U.S. government, dietary supplements represent a large and growing market among American consumers interested in maintaining or improving their health, appearance, or vigor. In 1994, there were approximately 4,000 dietary supplements on the market, and by 2008, this number was estimated to have grown to approximately 75,000 supplements available to consumers (Journal of Consumer Affairs). From the information we can portray, this industry is growing rapidly. and will continue this trend in the future with the evolution of new companies. Additionally, as of 2010, American consumers spend over $28 billion annually on dietary supplements. (Consumer Journal). This shows that Americans are involved in the supplement industry and spend large sums of money. There are these types of companies in most retail malls that sell supplements such as GNC, Supper Supplements, and Vitamin Shoppe that promote and sell supplements. However, the FDA is responsible for protecting the public health by ensuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, biologics, medical devices, our nation's food supply, cosmetics, and products that emit radiation; and help the public get the accurate, science-based information they need to use medicines and foods to improve their health (FDA). Some of these supplements on the market are FDA approved and although dietary supplement manufacturers have to register them… middle of the paper… diet is ultimately what gives the biggest gains. Finally, based on my research into supplements I buy and use several products myself. I train at my local gym and engage in anaerobic exercise. I take these supplements to promote better health. Some of the supplements I take are Optimum Nutrition Whey Protein, Animal Vita Packs, Cellucor C4 pre workout booster and Casein Whey Protein. All of the supplements I take are beneficial and provide my body with the proper supplements to help me achieve my muscle gain goals. In conclusion, the general consumer should consider a doctor's recommendation before including supplements in their diet and although there are many supplements on the market that present themselves as a miracle drug for weight loss or gaining muscle mass, etc. In reality most are not effective and will be wasted money and no positive benefits.