`My doctor doesn't recommend supplements'

The Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) released on Sunday a list of 100 products from Australia's Pan Pharmaceuticals Ltd. that have been banned due to their alleged side effects, following similar measures taken in Australia earlier this year. Dietary supplements have become the latest health trend, but some people told The Jakarta Post that they were not always effective.

Dati, 32, is a housewife who lives with her family in Cijantung, East Jakarta:

The withdrawal of the Australian-produced supplements that have harmful side effects protects consumers and their health. It is helpful, since consumers like me are sometimes ignorant of such effects.

I used to take a lot of supplements containing vitamin E when I was pregnant, as I thought it would be good for my uterus. But I stopped soon after my doctor said he did not recommend it. Sadly, I miscarried last month.

I am not actually taking any supplements habitually. My husband also helps me go through the ingredients in the supplement. If they are good, he tells me I can take them.

I'd prefer to get my daily dose of vitamins and minerals through vegetables and fruits, rather than in dietary supplements.

As a housewife, I can also control the nutrition content of meals for the entire family. Natural foods and ingredients are good enough for me.

Henny, 31, is a housewife with two children and lives in Semper, North Jakarta, with her family:

I agree with the recent withdrawal of 100 Australian dietary supplements. This will help consumers understand that health does not necessarily come in a pill.

In the past, my life was inseparable from supplements, as I took supplements every day for my rheumatism.

I thought I felt better after taking the supplements -- at least my pain no longer bothered me -- but I don't know whether there will be any side effects.

I stopped taking the supplements after my husband was laid off, since they were no longer affordable then.

I also learned that, actually, the supplements only reduced the pain, but never cured the ailment.

I then tried the cheaper brands, but they made me suffer from gastronomic problems. I felt the side effects after taking four packs. After this experience, I quit taking supplements.

In a way, supplements are good for the time being, but I felt I was getting addicted to them.

Still, it doesn't help me much, because my rheumatism comes back when I don't take them.

Now, I prefer alternative healing using bio-energy. In addition to the therapy, I still take some herbal draughts imported from America. I've learned, however, to be more selective in terms of side effects and financial consideration.

Diandra, 32, works at an international health organization in Central Jakarta. She lives in Kayu Jati, East Jakarta, with her husband and daughter:

I agree with the withdrawal of the Australian supplements to protect consumers from their side effects.

I just regret the fact that the BPOM was slow to uncover the risks. Perhaps it is better late than never, because the government usually takes serious measures after there has been a real victim.

Besides, the campaign will also help consumers thoroughly consider what they are consuming, since imported food supplements are usually expensive.

To be honest, I often take supplements myself, particularly during and after a pregnancy. I just worry that my baby and I are among those who have taken some of the banned products.

As a matter of fact, I don't know for certain about the real benefits of taking dietary supplements, but many say that it helps keep the mother and baby healthy.

Even now, I still take the supplements, especially when I am not feeling well. It makes me feel better, although I don't know how they work.

-- Leo Wahyudi S