Supplements are superfluous?

An Institute of Medicine study commissioned by the United States and Canada recently found that the average North American may not need as much Vitamin D and calcium as once thought, and that consuming too many supplements may be harmful to one’s health.

An expert committee analyzed more than 1,000 published studies and concluded that, while Vitamin D and calcium benefit bone health, evidence shows that supplements do not necessarily contribute to overall health. The committee also found that most North Americans already get enough Vitamin D and calcium through diet and exposure to the sun.

Teenaged girls can still benefit from extra calcium, but some adults may be at risk of kidney stones if they consume too much.

To see the new recommended intake levels, visit www.iom.edu.