Nestle On Vitamins: Belief Or Science-Based Interpretations (Both Are True)

In her blog, Nestle explains two approaches to understanding vitamin supplements — one based on beliefs and the other on science. (Interestingly, she says both are viable.) She writes:

Supplements are a good example of how scientists can interpret research in different ways, depending on point of view....

For example, on the need for supplements, a belief-based approach rests on:

--Diets do not always follow dietary recommendations.
--Foods grown on depleted soils lack essential nutrients.
--Pollution and stressful living conditions increase nutrient requirements.
--Cooking destroys essential nutrients.
--Nutrient-related physiological functions decline with age.

A science-based approach considers:

--Food is sufficient to meet nutrient needs.
--Foods provide nutrients and other valuable substances not present in supplements.
--People who take supplements are better educated and wealthier: they are healthier whether or not they take supplements.

The statements in both approaches are true.