From the Guidelines
There is no scientific evidence that NuBest supplements specifically optimize nutrition for epigenetic growth in adolescents with normal growth and development, and a balanced diet is recommended instead of supplements. While NuBest markets products aimed at supporting growth in adolescents, claims about epigenetic effects are not substantiated by rigorous clinical research 1. For optimal nutrition during adolescence, a balanced diet containing adequate protein, calcium, vitamin D, iron, zinc, and other essential nutrients is recommended instead of supplements. Most healthy teenagers can get all necessary nutrients from a varied diet including lean proteins, dairy or fortified alternatives, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
Some key points to consider for optimal nutrition in adolescents include:
- Limiting sweetened beverage intakes to 8 to 12 oz per day for children 7 to 18 years old 1
- Encouraging a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, dairy foods, whole grains, lean meats, and fish 1
- Avoiding excess consumption of discretionary calories and/or supplanting the intake of foods containing essential nutrients 1
- Considering individualized, structured meal plans designed by a registered dietitian nutritionist for optimal nutrition 1
Supplements should only be considered if a healthcare provider identifies a specific nutritional deficiency through testing. Adolescence is indeed a critical period for growth and development where nutrition can influence gene expression, but targeted supplements have not been proven superior to a balanced diet for supporting these processes. Parents concerned about their child's growth should consult with a pediatrician or registered dietitian rather than relying on commercial supplements.
From the Research
Nutritional Supplements and Epigenetic Growth
- There is no direct evidence to suggest that NuBest (nutritional supplement) supports optimal nutrition for epigenetic growth in adolescents with normal growth and development 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Studies have shown that a balanced diet rich in plant sources of fats and protein, fish, nuts, whole grains, and fruits and vegetables is essential for optimal nutrition and health 2, 3, 5.
- A well-balanced and varied diet can help achieve and maintain an optimal state of health, reducing the risk of chronic non-communicable degenerative diseases 4, 5.
- The World Health Organization Health Promoting Schools framework approach has been shown to have some effectiveness in increasing physical activity and improving diet in adolescents, but more research is needed to understand the best mechanisms for implementation 6.
Key Nutrients for Optimal Nutrition
- Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other plant foods provide a range of nutrients and bioactive compounds, including phytochemicals, vitamins, minerals, and fibers 3, 5.
- A Mediterranean-style diet, Okinawa diet, Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet, and caloric restriction have been found to be beneficial for healthy aging 5.
- Adequate intake of protein, fiber, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids is essential for better physical function, bone health, muscle strength, cognitive function, and lower risk of chronic diseases and disability 5.
Limitations of Nutritional Supplements
- More and more evidence suggests that the health benefits of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other plant foods are attributed to the synergy or interactions of bioactive compounds and other nutrients in whole foods, rather than dietary supplements 3.
- A vegan diet, if not well-balanced, can cause deficiencies in proteins, ω-3 fatty acids, iron, vitamin D, and calcium, zinc, iodine, and vitamin B12, highlighting the importance of a balanced diet over supplements 4.