Internet Exercise Worksheet for Personal Nutrition 10e Chapter 7—The Vitamins: A Functional Approach

Overview: The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) is the Federal Government’s lead agency for scientific research on complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). NCCAM conducts and supports research and provides information about complementary health products and practices. Dietary supplements contain a variety of ingredients. Research has confirmed health benefits of some dietary supplements but not others. Use this exercise to explore how to use dietary supplements wisely. Directions: 1. Access the website at: http://nccam.nih.gov/health/supplements/wiseuse.htm 2. Read the article and answer the questions below: Multiple Choice 1) Dietary supplements include ____. a) flavored waters and energy drinks b) granola bars and protein powders c) vitamins, minerals and natural herbs d) lentils, legumes, and beans 2) To obtain reliable information on a particular dietary supplement, _____. a) read the labels of several competitor’s products b) ask your health care provider c) check articles and advertisements in health magazines d) talk to friends or relatives who use various supplements 3) What types of claims can manufacturers make regarding their dietary supplements? a) Safety and effectiveness claims b) Diagnosis, treatment, and prevention claims c) Claims of FDA approval and safety d) Health, structure/function, and nutrient claims

4) What dietary supplement has been associated with preventing certain birth defects? a) Echinacea b) Folic acid c) St. John’s wort d) Vitamin C True/False 5) The word “natural” listed on a supplement ensures that the product is safe. True False 6) The regulations for dietary supplements are different and less strict than those for prescription or over-the-counter drugs. True False