Q: How effective is the Nutrilite products from Quixtar? Do they really help healthy living and are they really worth their cost? Is there any other similar dietary supplement prepared from organic plants (as claimed by Quixtar) available in the market? If available please do mention the details. What are the dietary supplements needed by a diabetic patient?

A:Due to aggressive promotion, high profitability and lack of regulation, dietary supplements are being consumed like hot dogs. Some such supplements are even harmful. The normal diet contains adequate amounts of vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants; hence additional supplements are not required unless there is documented, proven deficiency of a particular agent. What is required in diabetes is tight blood sugar control, exercise (to reduce the need for medication) and control on blood pressure, if high. No supplements are necessary.