Who needs the 'super' supplements? To boost energy, strengthen immunity and enhance memory - maybe you do

Vegetarian Times, March, 1998 by Jack Challem

Normally, our bodies produce their own anti-inflammatories. But because of genetics or a poor diet, many people do not, says David Horrobin, Ph.D., editor of the British Journal Medical Hypotheses. But this biochemical roadblock can be circumvented by taking GLA supplements. In a study of 41 people with rheumatoid arthritis, Robert B. Zurier, M.D., of the University of Massachusetts Medical Center, Worcester, found two-thirds of the patients had significant reduction in joint swelling, tenderness, pain and morning stiffness when given GLA.

Many doctors recommend 4,000 to 6,000 mg. of evening primrose oil (which would provide 360 to 540 mg. of GLA) daily for rheumatoid arthritis. For minor aches and joint stiffness, you can probably get by with 1,000 to 2,000 mg. daily.

DOLLARS AND SENSE

Because these supplements are pretty pricey (a two-month supply of phosphatidyl serine can set you back $ 100), you need to evaluate whether your health really warrants them. If you do decide to use any of these supplements, however, shop around for the best price. Then follow the 30-day rule: If symptoms ease up after a month of taking a supplement, keep taking it. But if you don't sense any benefits after 30 days, stop taking it. If your symptoms worsen, the supplement might have been helping and may be worth trying for several more months. Then again, if you're taking it for prevention, trust your instincts: After all, they're your highest source of wisdom. de

Jack Challem writes and publishes The Nutrition Reporter[TM] newsletter. You can visit his Web site at http://www.jrthorns.com/Challem.>

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