A Message from Dr. Cooper
I did a double take when I opened the June 19, 2002 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). There were two articles stating that "it appears prudent for all adults to take vitamin supplements." Yes, JAMA is now promoting the daily consumption of vitamins.
That position is more than just a little surprising. For years the medical profession has, for the most part, ignored the benefits of vitamin supplementation. Keep in mind that nutrition education is not a primary focus of most medical schools. In fact, the curriculum at most medical schools calls for no more than one class in nutrition, and often that class is an elective. Treatment, not prevention, is what the majority of medical schools emphasize. However, as the JAMA articles indicate, times are changing.
In an article titled, "Vitamins for Chronic Disease Prevention in Adults," the authors pointed out that "suboptimal intake of some vitamins is a risk factor for chronic diseases and common in the general population, especially the elderly. Suboptimal folic acid levels, along with suboptimal levels of vitamins B6 and B12, are risk factors for cardiovascular disease, neural tube defects, and colon and breast cancers; low levels of vitamin D contributes to osteopenia and fractures; and low levels of the antioxidant vitamins (vitamins A, E, and C) may increase risk for several chronic diseases."
The article also points out that "most people do not consume an optimal amount of all vitamins by diet alone."
I'm thrilled that the medical community is taking this stance. The scientific data is just too impressive to ignore. Hopefully this will encourage manufacturers to spend more of their effort (and resources) on research rather than just promotion.
WHAT ABOUT YOU?
As a consumer the question you must ask is what should you take, and how much? For a list of the 10 basic vitamins and minerals I suggest click here. This listing is adjusted for age and sex.
For those of you interested in a more complete offering, then I would recommend Cooper Complete multivitamins with total confidence. As you may know, Cooper Complete has been shown to be very effective in both a pilot study and double-blind clinical trial. Absorption levels were significantly increased, while at the same time reductions were found in homocysteine, LDL oxidation and C-reactive protein. We anticipate submitting at least two, and possibly three, articles for publication before the end of this month as a result of the data from the clinical trial.
A FINAL REMINDER
Remember that vitamins and minerals are "supplements" and NOT "replacements." The foundation for optimal health is a well-balanced, nutritious diet that includes generous portions of fruits and vegetables (the goal in terms of servings: five is fine, but nine is divine.) Please do not make the mistake of thinking that a good multivitamin can counter a diet loaded with saturated fat and empty calories.
A daily multivitamin, along with a nutritious diet and regular exercise, will put you well on the road to living a long and healthy life to the fullest!
Stay well,
Ken Cooper, M.D., M.P.H.
Recognized through his writings and research as the leader of the international physical fitness movement, Kenneth H. Cooper, M.D., M.P.H., has been credited with motivating more people to exercise in pursuit of good health than any other person.
From the time of his first book, Aerobics (1968), Dr. Cooper has advocated revolutionizing the field of medicine away from disease treatment to disease prevention through aerobic exercise. Dr. Cooper has educated millions of people through his 18 books, which have been translated into 41 languages and Braille. His message is direct: "It is easier to maintain good health through proper exercise, diet and emotional balance than it is to regain it once it is lost."
To learn more about Dr. Cooper and The Cooper Aerobics Center, click here: Biographies.