Vitamin Supplements

If you’ve read the ads in health magazines, you may have seen claims that large doses of B6 can alleviate depression, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), asthma, muscle fatigue, and even autism. But you shouldn’t take these claims too seriously: scientific evidence does not support most of them. Proponents of B6, for example, claim that doses of 50 to 200 mg can “cure” PMS. According to research studies, a placebo seems to be just as effective. Read the rest of this entry »

Many statements have been made about vitamin B12, most commonly that B12 can boost energy. Scientific evidence does not substantiate most of these claims, although research does show promise in the area of cardiovascular health.

How Much Vitamin B12 Do You Need?

Your body needs little vitamin B12. Consequently, RDAs are low— for example, only 2.0 mcg for adult men and women. Read the rest of this entry »

Folic Acid Health Merits

Some of the most exciting news in vitamin research comes from studies of the connection between folic acid and the prevention of birth defects.

How Much Folic Acid Do You Need?

Your body’s need for folic acid can fluctuate widely, depending on factors such as age and circumstances. More than any other single group, pregnant women require an elevated consumption of folic acid. The RDAs call for more than doubling of folic acid intake during pregnancy. Read the rest of this entry »