Dietary supplements are vitamins that come in pill or liquid form. Some dietary supplements may be labeled as natural because the ingredients in the pills come from herbs or whole foods. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not set an exact definition for products labeled as natural. Your body absorbs natural, or food-based supplements, just as well as it absorbs synthetic vitamins.
Acidic conditions can impair normal functioning, such as enzyme reactions and other health functions, and lead to a variety of potentially serious health effects. Certain natural supplements can help shift your pH to a more al...
Anticoagulant prescription medications -- what many people call blood thinners -- can have serious side effects. For this reason, you may turn to over-the-counter supplements as a more natural way to reduce your blood's tendenc...
Along with a low fat and varied diet, some natural supplements may aid your quest to become physically fit. These supplements won't magically tone you, but when added to a regular exercise or weight-lifting routine and healthy ...
Pain, stiffness, inflammation and redness are some of the symptoms you may experience with swollen joints. Conventional treatment involves drugs like NSAIDs and corticosteroids, but these may have unpleasant side effects. Natur...
Chemists can manufacture a synthetic version of this pituitary hormone. Doctors prescribe the latter type of HGH to treat patients with growth hormone deficiency, according to a June 2011 review in the "European Journal of...
Bloating may occur due to a wide variety of reasons ranging from excessive food consumption to menstrual issues. It is helpful to determine first what is causing the bloating in order to figure out how to deal with it. Dependin...
Gerson treatment involves using nutritional therapy for those suffering from chronic illnesses and degenerative diseases. Gerson Therapy aims to activate the body's own healing mechanisms through the consumption of organic food...
In fact, four out of five women have fibrosis whether they realize it or not. Clinical science does not support the idea that you can take a supplement to reduce the size of a fibroid. There is no magic formula. What you can do...
Some manufacturers of weight-loss supplements allude to the possibility that their products block the cortisol in your body, a hormone associated with excess visceral fat. Synthetic cortisol is a prescription drug that doctors ...
If you are seeking treatment for gallstones, supplements containing natural ingredients may help to pass stones from the gallbladder naturally. Often, stones are comprised of acids and fats that have become crystallized in the ...
HGH or human growth hormone is naturally produced in your brain by a small gland called the pituitary gland. HGH plays a key role in building and maintaining muscle and tissue. Natural HGH supplements are marketed as "wonder cu...
No-flush niacin, available in stores that sell vitamins and other natural supplements, may help relieve symptoms of arthritis and Type 1 diabetes. But no-flush niacin -- a form of vitamin B -- may not help prevent heart disease...
As well as cysts on the ovaries which gives the condition its name, other typical symptoms of PCOS include infertility, weight gain, acne, depression and excess hair growth on the face and body. Research has shown that some s...
The prostate gland is an important part of the male reproductive tract, in that it helps propel seminal fluids during orgasm. Natural supplements have long been used to treat prostate problems, but you should always review supp...
Tryptophan supplementation is a controversial issue. In 1989 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration limited the availability of tryptophan within the United States. However, tryptophan is available with a prescription from a med...
There are many possible causes of hypothyroidism, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center, including Hashimoto's thyroiditis, removal of your thyroid gland or the use of certain medications. Natural supplements have lon...
Excess testosterone, however, may trigger adverse events, such as hair growth, aggression and acne. Prescription medications and surgical interventions alleviate this health problem, but such treatments cause side effects. Nutr...
However, in order to derive the energy from the food you eat, that food must contain adequate amounts of certain vitamins, without which you will be unable to efficiently convert the food you eat into usable energy. Fatigue may...
This is because during sleep, muscles relax and energy is restored to your body. In addition to quantity, sleep quality is also important. A lack of one or both of these can have a negative impact on cognitive and social func...
Herpes is a painful viral disease that affects the nerve endings of the skin. Although herpes is a serious illness, it is rarely life threatening. A healthy diet and nutritional supplements can support the immune system and th...
It remains critical for physiology and behavior across the lifespan. Using synthetic forms of testosterone, such as anabolic steroids, can suppress natural testosterone production. This suppression allows estrogen to dominate c...
No simple answers can provide a blanket response to the question of whether supplements or food sources are better nutrient-delivery systems. Both sources of vitamins have advantages and disadvantages.
A wide variety of natural supplements are marketed for enhancing athletic performance, but only a select few are touted for their specific benefits in bodybuilder training. You might take natural supplements to improve your str...
According to the American Cancer Society, some of the most common causes of cancer may include genetics, tobacco consumption, exposure to ultraviolet light and known carcinogens and lifestyle factors, including diet, exercise, ...
However, more research is needed to fully confirm the benefits of nettle for joint diseases. If you suffer from arthritis and consider taking natural supplements like nettle, you should first talk to your health care provider.
Nutritional supplements line the shelves at grocery and health-food stores all across the country. You can choose from a variety of supplements that are naturally sourced or those that are synthetically processed. If you go the...
It can be caused by the natural process of aging, surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. Menopause may be accompanied by symptoms such as hot flashes, depressed or agitated mood, weight gain or disrupted sleep. Herbs and supplemen...
Most of us wish we had more energy to get ourselves through the day. Certain vitamins may be helpful to boost your daily energy. There are so many supplements on the market to choose from when deciding which vitamins to take. R...
As you age, muscle loss starts to decline, which results in the loss of muscle strength. Besides following a strength-training program, evidence suggests that specific supplements can help improve strength levels.
Many people use vitamin, mineral and herbal supplements in hopes of preventing disease, especially cancer. A number of natural supplements are available that may either prevent or kill tumors. While many of these supplements ha...
Senile dementia is a scary prospect, as it significantly affects individuals and families. Certain supplements may be helpful in preventing senile dementia when part of a well-rounded treatment plan for overall health and welln...
It is a chronic disorder and can be severely disruptive for a patient. Traditional treatments such as prescription mood stabilizers and cognitive behavioral therapy are able to control symptoms, but some natural supplements may...
Vitamins and minerals are needed for hair to grow, and a deficiency may cause hair loss. Supplements can help keep women's hair glossy and vital, and prevent dryness. Adding vitamins and minerals to your diet may improve your h...
Hughes developed a capsule containing cayenne pepper and expanded his company with help from his family. Today, Nature's Sunshine is sold in 30 countries by nearly 600,000 independent distributors. However, natural supplements ...
In general, cancer begins when a change occurs in a cell's DNA called mutation. The mutation causes the cell to grow and divide uncontrollably. These dividing cells clump together and form tumors. A cancerous tumor can kill the...
Colds are not a single illness, but a condition caused by more than 100 different viruses. On average, adults have two to four colds per year, and children have 6 to 10. Antibiotics don't cure colds because they're caused by vi...
Certain natural supplements may be helpful in clearing up your lung congestion. According to the Canadian Lung Association, some lung conditions cause swelling and excessive mucus in your respiratory tract that obstructs air fl...
According to the Kids Health website, your skin is one of your body's largest organs and performs many important functions, including protection, temperature regulation and sensation. An unhealthy lifestyle and certain medical ...
Natural Curves supplements are produced by the company Biotech and sold through retailers like GNC. The product is marketed as a natural way to increase the size of your breasts.
In polycystic ovarian disease, the ovaries contain multiple cysts and side effects can occur from abnormal hormone levels, including excess hair growth, acne and skin problems and weight gain. While polycystic ovarian disease i...
While speaking with your physician, ask if it is safe for you to take one of the many natural supplements that are known to increase libido.
According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, the higher your HDL level, the lower your risk of heart disease. There are many options for raising your HDL level, including some natural supplements.
Arthritis to some degree may affect as many as 90 percent of all Americans during their lifetimes, reports the Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine. Traditional treatment includes diet modification, physical therapy and me...
Progesterone is a hormone that increases in the second half of a woman's menstrual cycle. This portion of the cycle is known as the luteal phase. It is stimulated by an orchestrated series of events that leads to a surge in the...
According to the Mayo Clinic website, the cause of hot flashes in menopause is not completely understood. It may be that the menopause-related reduction in estrogen interferes with the function of the hypothalamus, which serves...
Quick energy and endurance may also be desired to improve athletic performance. The safety and effectiveness of any supplement to boost energy naturally has not been proven by adequately controlled scientific studies.
Caused by the change in hormone levels, hot flashes may interfere with your daily activities and prevent sleep. Various foods, supplements and other natural remedies are available for the treatment of hot flashes and may provid...
When choosing an ointment, read the ingredients to be sure you are getting the right herb to treat your condition. Before taking any herb or supplement, even in the form of external ointments, be sure to speak to your physician...
Although there are several factors that contribute to developing gout, certain foods and obesity are two primary causes for this extremely painful form of arthritis. Changing your diet and using natural supplements may help con...
Some people also choose to use natural supplements to curb their cravings. If you choose to use a supplement, do so under the supervision of a knowledgeable health care provider. Use supplements as adjunct treatments to traditi...
Perimenopause isn't over until menstruation has ceased for a year, and then menopause begins. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms of perimenopause can include hot flashes, problems sleeping, bone loss and mood disturbances, ...
There is a wide selection of natural bodybuilding supplements on the market. It is important to know which supplements are natural and have no side effects. It is always recommended that you first check with your doctor before ...
Vomiting is a natural response by your body to rid itself of an unwanted invader. In some cases, this reflex is needed and welcomed, like when you have food poisoning or have ingested toxins. But when its cause is from stress o...
Common conventional treatments include topical steroid creams and oral medications that affect the immune system and the growth of skin cells. Certain natural supplements and topical treatments might offer relief from this cond...
A great deal of focus has been placed on Alzheimer's and other age-related causes of memory loss. Other conditions can also cause memory and concentration difficulties, and some may be successfully treated with natural suppleme...
While you get many essential nutrients from your diet, you might also consider dietary supplements in order to achieve additional health benefits. Nature Made is a dietary supplement company whose slogan is "Glad you took your ...
Despite their popularity, Mayo Clinic physician Sandhya Pruthi warns against the use of natural breast enhancement supplements. Some may theoretically increase the risk of breast cancer, while others can cause serious drug inte...
The company is owned by Pharmavite LLC, which was founded in 1971. While many Nature Made products have the approval of the United States Pharmacopeia, an authority that sets standards for supplements, you should consult a phys...
Diseases of the prostate and erectile dysfunction or ED may be on the list of health concerns of men as they age. While regular physical examinations are an important part of proactive health, some natural dietary supplements m...
An afternoon slump at the office can mean a loss of productivity. Fortunately, you don't have to reach for the coffee or some sugar to help you perk up. There are herbs and vitamins that can naturally raise your energy level th...
Myositis from those causes is temporary, but according to The Myositis Association, it can also be caused by an autoimmune disease. Inflammation due to autoimmune factors can cause flareups that last two or three years. Certain...
You may experience stress from numerous sources, including your job, family and financial situation. According to the Mayo Clinic, too much stress can create physical and psychological problems. Certain herbal supplements may h...
Prescription medication and therapy are often front-line treatments for bipolar disorder. Some patients choose to include supplements in their treatment regimen. Always consult your doctor before making any changes or additions...
According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer is the second leading cause of death after lung cancer. Using natural prostate supplements to strengthen the gland can be a way to help the prostate maintain optimal hea...
When it occurs on a regular basis, anxiety may be considered a chronic condition. Many treatments address chronic anxiety, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, medication and lifestyle modifications. In some cases, natur...
While serotonin is made in the brain, most of the available supply is found in the gut, where specialized cells release the chemical in response to food. This means that diet impacts serotonin production and release. In additio...
Insomnia, anxiety, nervousness, heart palpitations and depression are all signs of excess stress. Effective natural supplements can play a major role in helping to minimize the effects of stress on the body.
James F. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Swelling of the prostate gland can cause painful urination, and in some cases, it can even block the urethra, making urination impossible. There are several natu...
You know you have reached menopause when you haven't had a period for 12 months in a row. Menopausal women may experience uncomfortable symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness and become susceptible to a weakening of the...
Scutellaria baicalensis, more commonly known as Chinese skullcap or scullcap, has a role in traditional Chinese medicine for treating allergies, headaches, infections, inflammation and even cancer. The plant is related to Ameri...
Supplementation with vitamins, herbs and foods can help ease all of these symptoms and make for a much smoother transition.
Nature's Sunshine was established in the early 1970s, and produces supplements designed to support healthy living. The company has developed into a worldwide supplier, and is now present in 30 countries. The Nature's Sunshine w...
There are many different forms of the disease, with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis being the most common. While a variety of medications exist for treating arthritis symptoms, many can cause unwanted or dangerous sid...
Many detoxification programs prescribe herbs and other supplements to enhance your body's ability to clear itself of toxins and impurities. No scientific evidence has shown that you need these supplements to help you cleanse yo...
In Western civilizations it is often treated as an illness that demands medical intervention; however, the symptoms of hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood swings, declining libido, joint pain, osteoporosis, weight ...
It is also what makes us feel full or "satisfied" after we eat. Serotonin levels are thought to be a factor in many types of mental illness, such as depression and bipolar disorders. Maintaining appropriate levels can be accom...