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Every Service member knows certain basic skills to survive in combat. Knowledge of dietary supplements is another matter.
Fewer than half of Army Soldiers understand the U.S. government does not require manufacturers to demonstrate the effectiveness of supplements commonly used for bodybuilding, weight loss, energy and endurance, according to a recent study from the U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine. One third incorrectly believed the Food and Drug Administration, which oversees regulation of pharmaceuticals, enforces safety requirements for supplements.
In the quest to gain an “edge,” many service members resort to dietary supplements. Supplement use is prevalent in the Department of Defense, and consumption occurs for a variety of reasons: to improve performance, to lose weight, to gain muscle mass and/or to improve health. Unfortunately, use of some supplements has resulted in adverse events, which compromised performance and health rather than improve it.
Certain supplements, such as multivitamins, are generally safe, but other supplements can pose a hazard to health and jeopardize careers because of non-listed ingredients that could cause a positive urine drug screen.
Bodybuilding and weight loss supplements are in high-risk categories because of questionable ingredients and should be used with caution, if at all.
Keep in mind, many supplements are mislabeled accidentally or intentionally. In addition, many supplements are not made according to minimal standards of manufacturing. They often are not what they say they are.
In response to such safety concerns and awareness lapses, the Human Performance Resource Center and DOD launched Operation Supplement Safety.
The purpose of OPSS is to educate service members and retirees, their family members, leaders, health care providers and DOD civilians about dietary supplements and how to choose supplements wisely.
Features include access to the Natural Medicines Comprehensive database, searchable with more than 86,000 entries, which include origins and explanations of supplements, existing evidence of effectiveness and known harmful interactions with other supplements, pharmaceuticals and foods. OPSS also provides informational videos, answers to frequently asked questions and more.
Before purchasing or taking a supplement, visit HPRC-online.org/opss. Make sure your supplement meets industry standards with the NSF Certified for Sport online directory of certified products. Search the directory for your specific product. If you’re in the market for new supplements, download a list of all certified products before you buy.
Get answers to frequently asked questions about dietary supplement ingredients, performance and weight loss. Learn how to spot bogus claims, suspicious products and other red flags. Check out the OPSS Facebook page for the latest in supplement news and information.
For peak performance, service members should eat healthy and exercise regularly. Supplements aren’t intended to be a food substitute, because they can’t replicate all of the nutrients and benefits of whole foods, such as fruits and vegetables. So, depending on your situation and your eating habits, dietary supplements may not be worth the expense.
For questions on nutrition classes and services offered at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, call 590-7144 or 06371-9464-7144.
(Brooks is a registered dietitian and company commander at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center.)
