Good News on a Good Thing
(Multivitamin Assists Weight Loss and Appetite)
By: Jacqueline Jacques, ND, Naturopathic Doctor
Among the many nutritional myths out there, I have long battled against a belief that some people hold that taking a multivitamin makes them more hungry and leads them to gain weight. Two new pieces of research show us some good news.
Two studies published in late November the British Journal of Nutrition indicate that taking a multivitamin and mineral supplement may assist in weight management. The first study reported on a survey of survey of 267 men and 320 women aged 20 to 65. The survey found that in men regularly taking a dietary supplement weighed less, had less body fat, and lower BMI than those who did not. Women reported similar results, as well as generally reduced appetite.
In the second study, obese patients were placed on a low calorie diet and either given a multivitamin or placebo. While both group lost weight equally, those taking the multivitamin reported significantly reduced hunger both between and after meals.
What should this tell us? Our metabolism is driven by nutrients – vitamins and minerals are the cofactors that make all the reactions work. When we lack these nutrients, things just dont work as well. Moreover, a basic reason we eat is to get the nutrients we need. When the body doesnt get enough of what it needs, one thing it does is make you feel hungry so you will eat more to get those nutrients.
There is ample evidence that the general American public does not meet their daily nutritional needs for many vitamins and minerals. On top of that we know there are specific deficiencies associated with obesity and those who have had weight loss surgery have new and added risks.
Bottom line – if you are being weight conscious, a multivitamin is a simple safe thing you can take every day. Even if it doesnt have a dramatic impact on your weight or appetite, it is good for your health. And that is good news!
