Vitamin Patches – Do They Work?
Vitamin patches have taken the wellness world by storm! Well, maybe that’s an exaggeration. However, they are trending and promise a convenient and alternative way to take supplements. But do these patches deliver as they claim? Let’s take a look at both sides of the debate surrounding vitamin patches. We’ll start with the opposing view and see what some research and studies have to say.
Viewpoints OPPOSING Vitamin Patches
- Absorption Concerns: Some experts question the extent to which vitamins and minerals can be absorbed through the skin. The skin’s barrier function can limit the penetration of nutrients. For example, water soluble vitamins, such as vitamin C, struggle to effectively penetrate the skin layers. While fat-soluble vitamins, such as A, D, E, may be better candidates for delivery through vitamin patches.
- Limited Scientific Evidence: One study focused on athletes with low iron. Supplementing with a patch showed no beneficial effects, whereas athletes supplementing with a pill boosted their iron levels.
- Another study looked at people who had undergone gastric bypass surgery—who typically need nutrient supplementation post-surgery. Those who got a multivitamin patch instead of a supplement were more likely to have vitamin D deficiency and reduced levels of other key vitamins and minerals in their blood compared to the supplement group.
- Lack of Regulation: Vitamin patches are not regulated by the FDA in the same way as oral supplements, raising concerns about their quality and consistency.
- Potential for Skin Irritation: Some individuals may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions from the adhesive used in vitamin patches.
Viewpoints SUPPORTING Vitamin Patches
- Convenience: One of the primary appeals of vitamin patches is their convenience. They might reduce the need to take pills or capsules, making them a popular choice for busy individuals.
- Steady Release: Some patches are designed to release nutrients gradually over time, providing a consistent supply throughout the day.
- When oral supplements aren’t an option: vitamin patches may be an option for people with limited alternatives, like those recovering from gastrointestinal (GI) surgery. A surgeon at the University of Florida, Jeffrey Friedman, is a principal investigator of a study on vitamin and mineral deficiencies in patients who undergo bariatric surgery. Bariatric surgery addresses patient obesity. Friedman finds patches useful for patients finding it difficult to eat or drink after surgery, as long as their vitamin levels are monitored carefully.
- Targeted Delivery: Proponents argue that vitamin patches offer targeted delivery of nutrients directly to the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system.
- No Digestive Discomfort: Unlike oral supplements, vitamin patches avoid potential digestive issues like nausea or upset stomach that some people experience.
The Verdict: A Mixed Bag
The effectiveness of vitamin patches remains a subject of debate. While they offer convenience and may be suitable for some individuals, scientific evidence is limited. It’s essential to approach them with a critical eye and make informed decisions based on your specific needs and health goals. As always, best to consult your doctor.
Sources:
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32217791/
- https://vitaminpatchclub.com/
- PatchMD Vitamin Patches and Supplements
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35859973/
- PatchAid: Vitamin Patches and Supplements
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31302845/