Most people in the United States take at least one supplement either every day or occasionally, according to the National Institute of Health's Office of Dietary Supplements. While eating a variety of foods is the best way to get enough nutrients, sometimes a busy life, illnesses or other factors get in the way of maintaining a balanced diet. Nutrition supplements can help fill the gap, but they should not replace proper eating. Talk to your doctor before taking any supplement.
Types
Nutrition supplements include vitamins, herbs, minerals such as calcium or magnesium, and other substances such as fish oil or probiotics used to improve your diet, according to MedlinePlus. They come in a variety of forms, including capsules, pills, powders and liquids. Some foods and beverages, such as energy drinks and protein bars, also contain added nutrition supplements.
Benefits
In addition to occasionally filling the gap between how much of a nutrient you should be consuming and how much you actually do consume, nutrition supplements can be a useful tool during certain stages of life. For example, pregnant women require more folic acid and might benefit from a prenatal vitamin. However, the American Pregnancy Association stresses that a healthful diet is still the best way to maintain adequate nutrition. Your doctor will help you determine whether you need nutrition supplements.
Precautions
Nutrition supplements can be dangerous if used incorrectly. Taking excessive amounts of vitamins can cause severe complications. For example, too much potassium can lead to hyperkalemia, a life-threatening condition that can cause a heart attack. Herbs and other supplements can dangerously interact with other medications. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration strongly warns against taking supplements in place of medications. Taking supplements without consulting a physician can be especially risky if you have heart conditions, diabetes or other medical problems.
Regulations
The FDA's Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 places the responsibility of ensuring the safety of a supplement solely on the manufacturer. The FDA only becomes involved if the safety comes into question after mass marketing of the supplement. Manufacturers do not need FDA approval before marketing, nor does it need to provide evidence that the supplement is safe, unless the supplement contains a new dietary ingredient.
Understanding Claims
Under FDA guidelines, nutrition supplement manufacturers cannot make specific health claims about ingredients in the supplement, but they can suggest in vague terms that the supplement might be beneficial. These claims must be truthful and not attempt to mislead consumers, according to Iowa State University. For example, manufacturers can state, "research suggests that garlic helps maintain cardiovascular function." but they cannot state that it prevents heart disease. Manufacturers must also explain that the statement has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to treat, cure, prevent or diagnose a disease.
References
- National Institute of Health Office of Dietary Supplements: What You Need To Know
- MedlinePlus: Dietary Supplements
- American Pregnancy Association: Prenatal Vitamins
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration: For Women- Dietary Supplements
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Dietary Supplement Overview
- Iowa State University Extension: Supplement Facts Labeling and Health Claims
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