KQED's Forum The Future of Dietary Supplements Under Trump’s FDA
Feb 7, 2025
Dr. S Bryn Austin, a public health expert from Harvard, Nicholas Florko, a staff writer at The Atlantic, and Marily Oppezzo, a behavioral scientist at Stanford, explore the dietary supplement industry. They discuss the rapid growth and minimal regulation of these products, raising concerns about safety and efficacy. The panel delves into the implications of potential regulatory changes under the Trump administration and highlights the misleading marketing aimed at young consumers. They also emphasize the danger of relying on supplements instead of whole foods for nutrition.
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Industry Misconception
- RFK Jr.'s tweet suggests the FDA suppresses health advancements not patentable by pharma.
- However, the supplement industry, a multi-billion dollar entity, patents its products.
Risky Supplements
- Avoid supplements targeting weight loss, muscle building, detox, or sexual function.
- These often contain dangerous ingredients like illegal steroids, stimulants, and heavy metals.
Glucosamine Concerns
- A retired physician, Edward, observed patients taking glucosamine developed blood pressure and cardiac issues.
- He discovered the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) has benefited supplement companies based in Utah.