Chasing Life Did you take your vitamins today? Maybe you don’t have to
11 snips
Jul 11, 2025 Dr. Pieter Cohen, an Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard and expert in supplement safety, breaks down the complexities of the dietary supplement landscape. He discusses the lack of regulatory oversight and the hidden dangers of unapproved products. The conversation highlights the growing need for informed choices amidst rampant claims. Cohen emphasizes the importance of quality and efficacy in supplements like CoQ10 and turmeric. Ultimately, he urges listeners to be diligent in assessing what they really need for their health.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Doctor's Patient-Driven Concern
- Dr. Pieter Cohen's interest in supplement safety began when patients harmed by weight loss pills imported from Brazil came to him.
- He discovered these pills contained unapproved pharmaceutical drugs causing serious health issues like kidney damage and panic attacks.
1994 Law Limits Supplement Oversight
- The Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 classifies supplements as foods, limiting the FDA's pre-market review authority.
- This allows manufacturers to sell untested supplements without proving safety or efficacy before marketing.
Most Adults Likely Don't Need Multivitamins
- Most adults do not need multivitamins if they have no absorption issues and eat a typical diet.
- Vitamin deficiencies are rare due to fortified foods, making routine supplementation unnecessary for many.