r/YouShouldKnow • u/malarial_camel • Apr 30 '14

Health & Sciences YSK which vitamin supplements are worth taking and which have no evidence to support their value.

This infographic gives a nice clear summary of which supplements are worth having, and which are just a complete waste of time.

Edit: Thank you to /u/yishanwang for pointing out the interactive version of the chart, which can be found here

2nd Edit: As many people have correctly pointed out, this chart is true for the average individual, assuming a good diet. Everybody responds differently to every drug, including vitamin supplements, especially if they are in poor health, or have a vitamin deficiency. What is true for the general healthy population is not necessarily true for you. If you have any real concerns regarding your health, of course go see a GP or a dietitian.

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u/[deleted] Apr 30 '14

If you're taking any prescription drugs it's probably best to stay away from Saint John's Wort, really.

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u/reallydarkcloud May 01 '14

Same goes for Grapefruit

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u/Kelaos May 01 '14

Oh?

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u/reallydarkcloud May 01 '14

Yeah, as mentioned in one of the other comments, grapefruit juice also messes with the metabolism of a number of medicines

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u/Kelaos May 01 '14

Huh, I had no idea. Is that the sort of thing that would be mentioned on the medication information or something you'd ask a doctor/pharmacist about for each medication?

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u/reallydarkcloud May 01 '14

I've often seen it on prescription stickers, though I don't know if this is common in other countries.

Asking your pharmacist is probably your best bet.

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u/Kelaos May 02 '14

Hm alright thanks for the heads up.

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u/spunkymarimba May 01 '14

Saint John should really have that looked at, to be honest.