If an individual is forced to eliminate whole groups of foods due to allergy or intolerance, is consuming very low total calories in the diet, or is pregnant or lactating, there may be a valid concern over adequate levels of some vitamins or minerals. Identification of such a problem and the prescription of a supplement should be made by a qualified physician or dietitian. Protein Supplements Protein supplements have received a great deal of attention recently because protein has been associated with body building and muscle strength. The use of protein supplements in the United States is not warranted, because the American diet is generally higher in protein than is recommended by the Food and Nutrition Board. In fact, any extra protein the body consumes does not turn into muscle.
Excess protein is metabolized to fat for energy storage just like excess carbohydrate.
Extremely high levels of protein in the diet may cause ketosis, dehydration, gout, and increased calcium loss. Another type of protein supplement available in health food stores are enzyme supplements which are advertised to aid in digestion or cure certain ailments. Enzymes, being proteins, are digested in the stomach and intestine and would never be absorbed intact, making their oral use as digestive aids totally ineffective. There are many other types of food supplements available on the market. The same questions for evaluating nutrition information should be used to evaluate the validity of claims made for these supplements.