Morning Scepticism: Vitamins

With the obesity epidemic and the problems associated with it are a real concern. There are clearly problems with diet. But malnutrition is not one of them. Except in a few rare circumstances taking vitamins is a useless exercise. They do nothing! Yet so much is spent on them. They litter shelves in supermarkets and pharmacies, and there are even stores dedicated to their sale - all of this despite the scientific evidence showing how little they actually do. It seems a simple way to good health, but really it's little more than expensive coloured urine for the perception of doing something right. Whatever problems we have with nutrition in the West, it ain't the lack of it!

Morning Scepticism: Denialism

If there's one book to read this year, it's Michael Specter's - Denialism. But don't take my word for it, watch his presentation at TED and judge for yourself.

Morning Scepticism: Ethical Nutrients

Given that time and time again supplements are shown to do nothing, and in some circumstances even be harmful, can a company call itself Ethical Nutrients? Reminded me of a acupuncture shop at a local shopping centre called Miracle Therapy. "It's just the name of the store, I suppose, and no need for truth in advertising. Might as well call a homoeopathic remedy "cancer cure", after all it's just the name of the product.

On the site, the FAQ asks: "Am I Getting Enough Vitamins?" For almost everyone lucky enough to live in an industrialised country the answer is yes.