CRN Responds to Good Morning America Report

Consumers can benefit from taking vitamins in addition to eating a healthy diet, stresses the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN; Washington, DC) in response to a Good Morning America segment aired today. The GMA piece questioned the necessity of supplementation if consumers already follow a health-promoting diet. To a smaller extent, the report questioned whether there is enough scientific research backing supplements’ benefits.

“We see all kinds of ads saying that taking vitamins and supplements should be part of our daily routine. But do all those pills and bills that come with them always add up to better health?” stated the GMA report.

“We need to stop thinking of food and supplements as an either/or situation,” CRN responds.

“Consumers should strive to get their nutrients from eating a healthy diet; however, realistically a large percentage of the population is not getting what they need from food alone,” CRN continues. “While dietary supplements should not replace a healthy diet, consumers need practical options for getting nutrients, and dietary supplements are a convenient, affordable choice for those consumers who want to ensure their nutritional bases are covered.” The association also stated that regular exercise and medical check-ups also play a role in good health.

The GMA segment did acknowledge that certain groups of consumers can benefit from supplementation, including pregnant or nursing women, newborns or young children, and elderly people with restricted diets.

Watch the GMA segment here.