Supplements and Herbs, Essay Example

Introduction

Cancer and heart disease impact a large segment of the population; therefore, risk reduction strategies are essential to enable individuals to improve the quality of their lives and reduce the potential influence of these diseases. A number of vitamin-based supplements and herbs have been identified in recent years that claim to reduce these risks; however, additional research is required in order to determine the true impact of these supplements and their cance and/or heart disease prevention properties. Several of these types will be considered in the following paragraphs in order to determine their efficacy, side effects, and risk factors.

Supplement Review

Calcium and Vitamin D: It is known that a combination of Vitamin D and calcium reduce the risk of different types of cancers in women of postmenopausal age (Lappe et.al 1586). For this population, regular use of these supplements is also essential in the prevention of osteoporosis; however, side effects such as constipation and upset stomach may occur in some individuals, along with rarer side effects such as rashes and dizziness (WebMD).

Fish Oil: This supplement contains Omega-3 Fatty Acids, which are known to provide additional protection to the cardiovascular system; however, there is a risk associated with mercury intake from fresh fish, and therefore, it is recommended that supplements in oral form might be the most feasible alternative (Agatston). A minimum of one gram daily is recommended, depending on existing risk and any other factors that could contribute to a higher risk level (Agatston).

Ginger: It is believed that ginger possesses the ability to control inflammation, which may be useful in cancer prevention; however, this has not yet been proven in humans to the extent that it is a commonly recommended therapy (University of Michigan Health System). Those who take blood thinners and diabetics should control the amount of ginger that they consume because it could interfere with medications that are already taken (University of Michigan Health System).

Melatonin: This supplement may have some cancer-preventing properties and is also used for insomnia; however, additional research is required in order to determine its true effects in preventing cancer in humans and its potential influence and possible benefits for the immune system (University of Michigan Health System).

Resveratrol: This supplement has been proven in early studies to have cancer-fighting properties, but long-term, detailed studies have yet to be conducted (University of Michigan Health System). Furthermore, this supplement does not benefit in the prevention of prostate, lung, skin, and esophageal cancer, along with a higher risk of diabetes in some males who take it (University of Michigan Health System).

Conclusion

The use of herbs and supplements to prevent cancer and/or heart disease are commonly known; however, their true effects have been met with mixed results. Therefore, it is important to conduct research regarding these supplements and to speak with a physician prior to taking any supplement, particularly one that could interfere with already prescribed medication or other factors that could exacerbate symptoms or introduce new health conditions for patients. It is most important to recognize that many supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration; therefore, they must be taken with extreme caution and with the guidance of a physician in order to prevent any unanticipated or unwelcome side effects. This process is instrumental in enabling individuals to use supplements as warranted and to be able to anticipate any issues that might arise with their use. Physicians and other healthcare experts must be mindful of the desire of many consumers to take supplements because of the promises that are made in the media that they will prevent disease; therefore, these misconceptions must be clarified so that there are sufficient decision-making alternatives in place prior to using these alternatives.

Works Cited

Agatston, Arthur. “6 best and worst supplements for your heart.” 17 August 2014: http://www.prevention.com/health/health-concerns/best-and-worst-supplements-your-heart

Lappe, Joan M., et al. “Vitamin D and calcium supplementation reduces cancer risk: results of a randomized trial.” The American journal of clinical nutrition 85.6 (2007): 1586-1591.

WebMD. “Calcium 600 +D(3) Oral.” 17 August 2014: http://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-93163-calcium+600+++d3+oral.aspx?drugid=93163&drugname=calcium+600+++d%283%29+oral