Supplementary evidence

Kiwis are spending a fortune on supplements with little to go on and new rules allowing manufacturers to make evidence-based claims are at least three years away.

- NIKI BEZZANT

Dietitian Claudia Vavasour pauses and reflects on something she sees in her practice regularly. "Most women who come and see me are taking 10 or more supplements," she says. "They've spent a fortune." Canterbury-based Vavasour consults with clients around the country, specialising in fertility nutrition, pregnancy and women's health. She can see the attraction of dietary supplements, especially for women at a vulnerable time, such as when grappling with the uncertainties of starting a family.

"Anyone who's having difficulty conceiving wants to do everything they can to optimise their outcome, and I think there's an element of supplements being something that they can control. And if their friend's neighbour took a supplement and it worked for them, then it's worth a shot. That comes with its own set of issues ... but I think you are tapping into that desire, when people are feeling desperate." Sport dietitian Conrad Goodhew is also familiar with this scenario. He's used to seeing clients pulling out multiple bottles of pills and powders.

"I say to them, "You're taking 12 different supplements over the day. What are you trying to prevent here?"" The answers can vary, he says. "Some people might be highly stressed, so they're taking supplements they've heard are really important for stress. People might have ongoing illness, so they're taking supplements they think might help with that. And there are other things they might've heard from friends, family, podcasts or whatever, about this amazing new product.

"The marketing that goes into supplements is massive."

A QUICK FIX