From the Guidelines
Dr. Steven Gundry's dietary supplement claims should be viewed with significant skepticism due to the lack of substantial scientific backing from independent research. His theories about lectins and his supplement line (Gundry MD) have been criticized by mainstream nutrition experts for overstating dangers of certain plant foods and making exaggerated health claims 1. The most recent and highest quality study, published in 2025, states that despite lack of evidence of benefit from dietary supplements, consumers continue to take them, and without underlying deficiency, there is no benefit from herbal or other supplementation for people with diabetes 1.
Key Points to Consider
- The scientific consensus does not support Dr. Gundry's extreme position on lectins, and many of his supplement ingredients, while potentially beneficial in some cases, are available in less expensive forms 1.
- Routine antioxidant supplementation is not recommended due to lack of evidence of efficacy and concern related to long-term safety 1.
- There is insufficient evidence to support the routine use of herbal supplements and micronutrients to improve glycemia in people with diabetes 1.
- Consumers should consult healthcare providers before taking any supplements and should be particularly cautious about products marketed with dramatic claims about solving multiple health issues simultaneously.
Recommendation
Consumers should exercise caution when considering Dr. Gundry's dietary supplement claims and consult with a healthcare provider before taking any supplements. It is essential to prioritize evidence-based recommendations and be aware of the potential risks and lack of benefits associated with dietary supplements 1.
From the Research
Dietary Supplements and Their Validity
The validity of Dr. Steven Gundry's claims regarding dietary supplements can be evaluated by examining the existing research on dietary supplements.
- The use of dietary supplements is widespread, with an estimated 1 in 5 patients using them to maintain or promote their health 2.
- However, the regulation of dietary supplements is limited, and their potential risks and benefits are often unknown to patients and physicians 2, 3.
- The Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 legitimized the sale of dietary supplements, but it also limited the FDA's ability to regulate them, allowing products of unknown safety and efficacy to be sold 3.
- Many dietary supplements are used without evidence of their effectiveness, and some may even be harmful 4, 5.
- The lack of standardized guidelines and regulation of dietary supplements makes it challenging for clinicians to advise patients on their use 6.
Efficacy and Safety of Dietary Supplements
- The literature shows that taking vitamin and mineral supplements by healthy people neither lowers their risk of cardiovascular diseases nor prevents the development of malignancies 4.
- Omega-3 fatty acids may lower blood triglycerides, but their effectiveness in preventing heart disease is less clear-cut 4.
- Weight loss supplements are not an effective method of fighting obesity, and some supplements may be adulterated with banned substances, making them potentially life-threatening 4.
- Dietary supplements can be associated with adverse events, and their use should be recommended and monitored by a physician, especially in cases of nutrient deficiency 4, 6.
Physician-Patient Relationship and Dietary Supplements
- Physicians should be aware of all the dietary supplements their patients consume and help them make informed decisions about their use 6.
- The lack of physician knowledge about dietary supplements can strain the doctor-patient relationship 2.
- Clinicians should evaluate dietary supplements based on their quality, integrity, and potential interactions with other medications 5.