Prosecutions or other legal actions take years, and the promoter can reap huge profits during the delay. Under our consumer protection laws, a substance is considered a drug if a medical claim is made for it, even though it is a food or dietary supplement. However, just about anything can be sold as long as it is called a dietary supplement. Since the Food and Drug Administration treats dietary supplements as foods, these products are not evaluated for safety and effectiveness. People often believe that magazine, radio, and television ads and testimonials are proof of effectiveness.
People tend to believe that the products on the market have been researched, tested, and inspected.
Your best protection against nutrition fraud is to be an informed consumer. Reprinted with permission from Ellen Coleman, RD, MA, MPH Ms. Coleman is a registered dietitian and exercise physiologist in Riverside, California. She is the nutrition consultant for The Sport Clinic. The information provided within this website and from our services is not intended to be a diagnosis or prescription. Before beginning any diet or fitness program please consult a physician.