A patient in good health and without any major health needs says, "I want to try some nutritional supplements I read about on the Internet." What information would be appropriate for the nurse to include in a response? Select all that apply

Question

a. "Most healthy people who eat a balanced diet do not need nutritional supplements."
b. "Research has not supported claims that various nutritional supplements create significant benefits in healthy people."
c. "Some nutritional supplements are proven to significantly delay aging and reduce the incidence of age-related diseases like cancer."
d. "I am glad you are actively engaged in managing your health by trusting information from the Internet."
e. "Researchers are still studying the benefits and side effects of many supplements. We should know more in the years to come."

Answer 1

ANS: A, B, E
Although some supplements do seem to improve certain disorders such as depression, nutritional supplements generally are not needed by persons who eat a balanced diet and are in good health. Claims for clear health benefits from exceeding the recommended intake of nutrients are generally not supported by science. Research is limited to date, and future findings may show more support as our understanding of the body's nutritional needs expands. Taken at levels supported by most health care practitioners, supplements are probably safe. Occasionally, research suggests that supplements thought to be safe can contribute to health problems under some circumstances. There is no evidence that supplements slow aging or prevent cancer. It is important for nurses to caution patients about reliability of information on the Internet.