Synergism is the phenomenon whereby things interact to provide an effect that is greater than the sum of the individual effect. The question as to whether supplements provide synergistic health effects really depends on the nature of the supplements. One of the most obvious examples of a synergism that exists between supplements is that of antioxidants. Antioxidants are chemicals that prevent oxidative stress, but generally most antioxidants do this in different ways and in different tissues or cells. Therefore taking a range of antioxidants at lower doses can provide a better health effect than taking a single supplement in high doses. This is a great example of synergism. However, there are other examples. For example, N-acetyl cysteine and milk thistle can both protect the liver from the effects of toxins. However the way they perform this is different and therefore taking both supplements in lower doses may provide a better general protection than taking a single supplement in high dose.
Eat Well, Stay Healthy, protect Yourself
RdB
