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Dietary Supplements (vitamins, minerals and herbs) Why take dietary supplements? This is a common question that patients frequently ask. There are four main reasons to take dietary supplements: Most Americans do not adhere to a health promoting diet, for example, less than 10% of U.S. population consume the recommended five servings in fruits and vegetables daily. Micronutrient losses that result from conventional food growing processing and handling are substantial. Soil quality has consistently declined and trace mineral deficiencies are common as a result. Damaging free radicals can be produced as a result of environmental pollution, smoking and certain dietary factors. These free radicals can accelerate the development of premature aging, cancer and cardiovascular disease. One way to ensure that excess free radical production is controlled is through dietary antioxidants. Of course, apart from the above considerations, many people consider taking dietary supplements to either prevent disease, assist in treating a specific disease, in order to complement or avoid prescription medication. How can I be assured of the quality of my dietary supplements? There are dizzying array of nutritional supplements available through health food stores, pharmacies, supermarkets and Internet vendors. Unfortunately, there is no required pre-market testing or quality control required of the nutritional supplement manufacturers by the FDA. It is up to the dietary supplement manufacturers to create their own standards of quality. Therefore, one can not be assured that what is listed on the label of a nutritional supplement, is in fact, what is contained in the tablets or capsules inside. How will I know which manufacturers are reliable? Dr. Halbert has had over 15 years of experience in prescribing dietary supplements. Over time, he has come to know which supplement manufacturers are responsible and committed to the highest level of quality assurance and product research and development. Our office obtains the highest quality dietary supplements from these physician-direct manufacturers. We have found this to be highly effective way of dealing with quality and safety concerns. We make these dietary supplements available in our office at very reasonable prices. You can purchase them at the time of your visit, or you may order them by phone or via form on-line to be shipped directly to your home. We can also provide you with the names of trusted retail brands. Return to Patient Services Home | Supplement Order Form Steven C. Halbert M.D. 1442 Ashbourne Road · Wyncote, PA 19095 · 215-886-7842 · 215-887-1921 (fax)