An introductory nutrition class. David plans his meals ahead of time, is careful not to skip them, and works out three to four times per week.

David Pulz is a student at the University of Wyoming. He is currently enrolled in an introductory nutrition class. David plans his meals ahead of time, is careful not to skip them, and works out three to four times per week. He already knows quite a bit about nutrition and believes he has good eating habits. What he wants is more information on how nutrition impacts overall health. In addition to learning how to eat a healthy diet, David has been consuming several vitamin supplements as promoted by his gym. The amounts of the vitamins he is taking vary, but many provide 500% or more of the DRI. The excess amounts he believes are

a bonus that will give him a boost of extra energy as part of his exercising program. He has been drinking protein shakes for breakfast and

eating energy bars for snacks. His goal is to see the extra protein increasing his legs and arms as muscle mass. During a lecture in his

nutrition class, David’s professor warned that taking supplements may be unwise. The rationale for this is that a good diet should provide

sufficient nutrients. The instructor states that this is widely accepted by other nutritionists. During another nutrition class, possible toxicity

resulting from an excess intake of vitamins was discussed. In particular, the instructor cautioned that this risk is high for fat-soluble vitamins,

but ongoing research suggests that excess water-soluble vitamins may lead to toxic effects. Moreover, David’s nutrition text reinforced his

instructor’s perspective. With this information, David becomes concerned that he may be overdoing his vitamin intake. On the other hand, he also doubts that the gym fitness experts would provide him incorrect information and promote an unhealthy practice.

1 What should David do to resolve this conflict and still achieve his goal?

2 Do you think he may be overdoing his vitamin intake?

3 Do you think it is dangerous if he is?

4 Is there any harm in consuming fat-soluble vitamin supplements in addition to his diet?