Dr Jean-Michel Cohen returns with a book on food supplements. He offers a detailed analysis of the best-selling products and shares his recommendations for consuming them intelligently. What are the real benefits of these supplements and in what cases are they useless? Explanations.
In his new book “Food supplements, make the right choice”, Dr Jean-Michel Cohen provides an overview of the most common food supplements. According to him, it is essential to distinguish truly effective products from those which do not provide proven benefits. To do this, he listed between 500 and 600 supplements, classified by their usefulness and their impact on health.
Food supplements: a necessity?
According to Dr. Cohen, dietary supplements can be beneficial in certain situations, particularly when a dietary deficiency is identified or the diet is unbalanced. He explains that in the modern world, many consumers are at risk of deficiencies due to the consumption of processed products or a restrictive diet. However, he cautions against excessive use of these products. “Food supplements are not a miracle solution”he emphasizes.
Dr. Cohen identifies several areas where dietary supplements can be helpful. For sleep, for example, he recommends those containing melatonin or plant extracts like CBD. Likewise, certain products based on grape polyphenols or red vine extracts can be effective in improving joint pain. According to him, “they sometimes obtain better results than certain drugs”
Supplements intended to relieve pain during periods and menopause are also highlighted by Dr. Cohen. Finally, for general vitality, well-formulated multivitamin complexes can help overcome temporary fatigue.
Dr. Cohen admits to being surprised by some of the supplements himself. He says in particular that he has become a “fan” of magnesium, which he considers to be an almost essential supplement. “Magnesium, taken twice a day, is beneficial for stress, anxiety, sleep and muscle recovery in athletes”he says.
Categories to avoid
Conversely, Dr. Cohen advises against food supplements intended for respiratory disorders, which he considers ineffective. He also remains skeptical of products claimed to improve memory or boost immunity. “Many turn to zinc, vitamin A or C for immunity, but no scientific evidence validates their effectiveness in this area”he explains. According to him, many products simply act as placebos.
Dr. Cohen calls for greater regulation of the dietary supplement market. In France, this sector has experienced growth of 12 to 15% per year for several years, attracting many economic players. The nutritionist recommends strengthening controls to avoid abuses and protect consumers.
Finally, he recommends reasoned consumption, as opposed to the massive and continuous use that we sometimes observe regarding probiotics: “As much as they are good products for digestive comfort and to avoid bloating, pain, flatulence, the product itself has no ambition to cure any disease or pathological condition”.
food supplements health nutrition
