Have the health teachings of television personality Dr. Oz helped or hurt natural products retailers? NFM looks behind the curtain.
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Mary Ann Rice, owner of HFP Vitamins in Twin Falls, Idaho
Overall, I think he’s good but I have heard him suggest that people look for deals on some products by shopping at big chain stores like Walgreens. That doesn’t help small independent retailers. I am encouraged that he’s putting natural products at the forefront, but sometimes his methods act as a double-edged sword.
Christian Olson, Manager of Total Health Nutrition Center in Menomonee Falls, Wis.
He does his research and is passionate and genuine, but Dr. Oz sometimes gets so excited about a product, he doesn’t take the time to say, “This isn’t the only option.” Often, I have to slow customers down and say, “These products are good but there may be other things to explore that are better suited for your unique situation.” People are always looking for a quick fix.
Jamie Cater, owner of Cater’s Market in Meridian, Miss.
The latest thing people have been asking for that Dr. Oz recommended is chia seeds, which have a lot of omega-3s and antioxidants. I hate that I have to miss his show because I’m at work, but I certainly try to stay up on the newest product he recommends.
Melanie Daigle, manager of Fresh Off the Farm Natural in Rockport, Maine
He’s a very smart man and has a huge following, so I feel like people really listen to what he has to say. He’s done nothing but boost sales at our market. I can only imagine what Dr. Oz has done for natural products retailers across the country.
Nicole Guck, grocery manager at Durango Natural Foods Co-op in Durango, Colo.
Dr. Oz can be good. Sometimes, though, people don’t know the whole problem. They come in and ask for what he suggests, but there may be other issues going on. People need to look at health from a holistic approach rather than just, “Oh, I need this one product and everything will be better.” I think he comes from a good place, but often people lack the education to really know what they need.