Does Thorne (generic name not specified) have any therapeutic benefits as a dietary supplement?

From the Guidelines

Thorne supplements are not generally recommended for people with diabetes or those at risk, as there is no clear evidence that dietary supplementation with vitamins, minerals, herbs, or spices can improve outcomes in people without underlying deficiencies. According to the 2018 standards of medical care in diabetes 1, the focus should be on individualized medical nutrition therapy (MNT) and lifestyle modifications rather than supplements. The evidence suggests that MNT, preferably provided by a registered dietitian, is recommended for all people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes or gestational diabetes mellitus.

• Key aspects of MNT include:
  • Emphasizing portion control and healthy food choices
  • Individualizing macronutrient distribution
  • Encouraging carbohydrate intake from vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, and dairy products
  • Avoiding sugar-sweetened beverages and foods with added sugars
• While Thorne may offer high-quality supplements, the available evidence does not support the routine use of supplements for people with diabetes or those at risk, and there may be safety concerns regarding long-term use of certain supplements, such as antioxidant supplements like vitamins E and C and carotene 1.
• It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any supplements to determine if there are specific deficiencies or needs that warrant supplementation, as most nutrients are best obtained through a balanced diet when possible.

From the Research

Thorne Supplement Usefulness

• The usefulness of Thorne as a supplement is not directly addressed in the provided studies, but the ingredients and their effects on cardiovascular health are discussed.
• Omega-3 fatty acids, which are likely to be included in Thorne supplements, have been shown to have beneficial effects on cardiovascular health, including reducing the risk of coronary heart disease mortality and events 2, 3, 4.
• The studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids may:
  • Reduce coronary heart disease mortality and events 2, 3
  • Lower triglycerides 2, 5
  • Reduce risk of cardiovascular disease events 3, 4
  • Have anti-inflammatory effects 4, 6
• However, the evidence for the effectiveness of omega-3 fatty acids in preventing cardiovascular disease is not consistent across all studies, and more research is needed to determine the optimal dosage and population for supplementation 2, 3.
• Other ingredients that may be included in Thorne supplements, such as multivitamins, may also have beneficial effects on cardiovascular health, including reducing homocysteine and C-reactive protein levels 5.
• Overall, while the provided studies do not directly address the usefulness of Thorne supplements, they suggest that the ingredients included in these supplements may have beneficial effects on cardiovascular health.