Most American adults take dietary supplements at least occasionally, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Dietary supplements may include vitamins, minerals, amino acids, probiotics, enzymes and herbs. Although many herbs have been used medicinally based on traditionally reported uses for centuries, and other supplements mimic compounds that the body ingests through the diet or produces naturally, potential health risks are involved in taking supplements that you should consider.
Possible Contraindications
Dietary supplements can cause negative interactions with prescribed medications. For example, vitamin K clots the blood and may decrease the effectiveness of blood-thinner medications used to prevent or treat cardiovascular disease. Saint-John's-wort may decrease the effectiveness of prescribed antidepressants. High doses of vitamins C and E may contraindicate with cancer chemotherapy treatment because of their antioxidant content, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Talk to your doctor prior to using dietary supplements to avoid contraindications.
Potential Impurities
During routine inspections of dietary supplement manufacturing facilities, the Food and Drug Administration has found abnormal chemicals, steroids and pharmaceutical medications in some supplements in recent years, according to CBS News. The FDA has established quality control measures that include standards of purity for dietary supplements, and they periodically carry out inspections to ensure their standards are being observed. Despite these measures, however, be aware that the purity and labeled dosages for these products are not guaranteed. Consider buying dietary supplements from only reputable sources to mitigate the risks.
Innacurate Claims
The companies that manufacture dietary supplements are not required to test them for safety and effectiveness, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Before using supplements to treat a health problem, consulting a qualified health care practitioner is an essential safety measure. Although the compounds in supplements usually exist in nature, they can strongly affect the body. Certain people, such as pregnant women and children, are particularly vulnerable to possible reactions. You should consider the potential side effects of supplements prior to using these products.
Member Comments