The Central Government Building No. 5 in Tokyo’s Chiyoda Ward that houses the Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry is seen in this file photo taken on Oct. 14, 2015. (Mainichi)
TOKYO — About 20% of people in Japan who use supplements take more than the amount that makers recommend. This is from a study by Toho University and other groups.
Read the original Japanese article
Of the people who take too many supplements, about 60% get more nutrients than the tolerable upper intake level. This is the amount that is thought to be safe.
The study was conducted from November to December 2024. It targeted 2,002 people in Japan, age 18 and older, who buy supplements. The study found that 371 people, or 18.5%, took more than the daily amount the makers say is safe.
For some nutrients, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare in Japan says how much is safe to take. Of 1,705 people who used these nutrients, 184 people took more than the safe limit for at least one nutrient. Many people took too much magnesium, niacin and vitamin A.
The study found some factors that are linked to taking too many supplements. These include being 50 to 64 years old, having a job, using tablet supplements, taking supplements for six months or more, and choosing to take more than the safe amount.
Supplements are an easy way to get nutrients, but taking too much can be bad for your health. The study team said it is important to give clear information so people know how much to take and choose the right products.
The study was in the international journal Interactive Journal of Medical Research on March 19.
(Japanese original by Toshiyasu Kawachi, Lifestyle, Science & Environment News Department)
Vocabulary
supplement: a pill or powder you take to get more vitamins or minerals
nutrient: something in food that helps your body stay healthy
recommend: say something is good or safe to do
tolerable upper intake level: the most you can take without health risks
conduct: to do or carry out something, like a study or survey
target: to choose people to ask questions
magnesium: a mineral your body needs
niacin: a vitamin your body needs, also known as vitamin B3
vitamin A: a vitamin that helps your eyes and body
factor: something that helps make a result happen
linked to: connected to; related to something
journal: a book or magazine with reports and studies
