In response to the article in the Sydney Morning Herald, Do we really need to take supplements? It’s complicated, Complementary Medicines Australia agrees – and respectfully disagrees on several points. 

 

Yes, complementary medicines are gaining popularity as consumers seek natural and holistic ways to take control of their health. In Australia, this surge in interest is met with unwavering confidence, thanks to the stringent regulations set by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Through a robust regulatory framework, the TGA ensures that Australian-made complementary medicines adhere to the highest safety, quality, and transparency standards globally.   

 

Australian Regulatory Standards  

Complementary medicines in Australia are held to some of the world's strictest regulatory standards, surpassing those of the USA and the UK. The TGA enforces Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), demonstrating the Department of Health's commitment to upholding the industry's integrity, and requires all medicines to hold evidence supporting the claims that are made. 

 

Labelling 

Specific mandatory statements on labels, including advisory statements and an AUST L or AUST R number, signify a product's adherence to the rigorous guidelines set by the Australian government. Products that do not carry these markers fall short of Australian quality standards. Products with an AUST L or AUST R offer consumers an explicit criterion for identifying reliable products. 

 

Regular, Rigorous Testing  

Australian-made complementary medicines undergo frequent and comprehensive testing, ensuring that the ingredients listed on the label align precisely with the medicine's 

contents. This unwavering commitment to testing guarantees consumers access to well-researched, responsibly formulated, evidence-based, high-quality products. The emphasis on transparency has bolstered consumer confidence in the world-class reputation of Australian products. 

 

Understanding Complementary Medicines  

With the increasing interest in traditional herbs, vitamins, and minerals, there is a 

growing need for a deeper understanding of complementary medicines. Both consumers and healthcare practitioners, including pharmacists and GPs, benefit from the provision of extensive nutrient and drug interaction databases. These invaluable resources empower practitioners to make informed decisions, fostering a collaborative approach to healthcare, and there is a wealth of information designed to support health professionals as they advise individuals. 

 

A Nutritionally Deficient Australia  

Australia's complementary medicines industry exists to promote good health; thus, we not only understand but promote the fact that there is no substitute for quality, nutritious food – we recommend that people aim to consume the recommended daily intake of vitamins and minerals by enjoying a healthy and varied diet. However, Australians do not comply with government recommendations – nine out of 10 adults do not eat the recommended servings of fruit and vegetables. Inadequate intake is consistent across all age groups. Concurrently, intake of discretionary foods (high fat, high sugar, high salt, and alcohol) exceeds the recommended 0-three servings per day – most adults average five to seven servings. 

 

The combination of a low intake of nutritionally dense food alongside a high intake of discretionary food that offers minimum quality nutrition (and intake is at the expense of more nutritious food) has resulted in a nutritionally deficient adult population. 

 

As the author states, many people need added nutritional support. For example (and to build upon the displayed list), older people, pregnant women, those on restricted diets, those with health challenges and people with increased stress levels can have difficulty obtaining essential nutrients to support health and well-being. 

 

Confidence in Australian-Made Products  

Consumers can place their trust in the safety and quality of Australian-made complementary medicines due to tightly clear warnings, accurate recommendations, contraindications, and carefully monitored therapeutic claims. Meticulous adherence to regulations offers consumers peace of mind regarding the products they integrate into their health routines. 

 

Caution with Overseas Purchases  

While Australian-made products adhere to rigorous standards, the same assurance cannot be extended to products purchased online from overseas, which may be subject to different regulations, necessitating consumer caution. Purchases from reputable retailers or on the recommendation of qualified healthcare professionals are advised to ensure the safety and quality of complementary medicines bought from international or e-commerce sources. 

 

Consumer Safety, Product Quality, and Transparency 

Consumers can access Australian complementary medicines that have adhered to the requirements of a stringent regulatory framework that prioritises consumer safety, product quality, and transparency. Australian-made products are a testament to the country's commitment to excellence in complementary medicine. Their increasing popularity reflects a growing understanding of how these medicines contribute to overall health. 

 

By familiarising themselves with the mandatory regulatory standards for complementary medicines, consumers can continue to confidently embrace these products, knowing they are investing in well-researched, responsibly formulated, and evidence-based health solutions.