Dietary supplements are products containing vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids and other substances such as amino acids that provide nutrition. Dietary supplements come in the form of tablets, capsules, gummies and powders and may help prevent or treat disease; they may also interfere with some medications.
Vitamin C, fish oil and echinacea are among the more frequently taken dietary supplements; however, before making your decision to take any of them it’s wise to consult a healthcare professional first.
They provide nutrients
Supplementing with vitamins and minerals is an excellent way to meet the body’s nutritional needs, providing essential vitamins, minerals, fatty acids and herbs. Some dietary supplements even contain phytochemicals – plant chemicals known as phytocompounds which are believed to lower cancer risks as well as heart disease risks – however it must be noted that vitamin and mineral supplements should never replace a balanced diet.
Registered dietitians recommend eating real food before taking any dietary supplements. However, if you are suffering from certain health conditions, healthcare professionals may recommend certain supplements such as iron or calcium to address specific deficiencies, or folic acid to prevent birth defects during gestation. Other concerns may require higher amounts of nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids or magnesium; many such over-the-counter dietary supplements exist today.
They are not a replacement for a healthy diet
Although supplements may seem appealing, evidence is limited that most actually aid people living healthier. A balanced diet that incorporates plenty of fruits and vegetables is the best way to get vitamins and minerals, while supplements may be helpful if someone cannot eat healthily; women trying to become pregnant should consider taking folic acid supplements during this process.
As opposed to medicines, the Food and Drug Administration doesn’t verify whether dietary supplements are safe or effective prior to being sold; thus, it’s crucial that individuals read labels carefully and consult a health care provider prior to consuming any supplements.
Keep a record of all of the supplements and medications you take. The National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements offers an easily-downloadable form with space for notes and dosage information, plus reporting any adverse reactions via FDA’s safety reporting portal.
They are not a cure
Although dietary supplements may be popular, there is no scientific evidence supporting their efficacy as disease preventatives or improving health enhancement measures. Furthermore, many may cause side effects and it’s wise to read labels carefully and consult a healthcare provider when taking them. Some supplement claims may be supported by scientific data while others could simply be assertions or hype; nonetheless some nutrients such as calcium, vitamins BCD and D are essential for overall wellbeing, while iron and folic acid supplements are necessary during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Most people can get all of the nutrients they require by eating a range of nutritious foods, but blood tests from medical providers are also necessary to detect deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals. Furthermore, doctors should be aware that patients often take dietary supplements; their use should be documented in their electronic medical record and any potential interactions between medicines and supplements should also be documented as they occur.
They are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Consumers spend an estimated $60 billion annually on nutritional supplements in the U.S., from multivitamins and digestive aids to purported muscle builders and age-defiers. But are these products safe and effective? The Food and Drug Administration does not regulate health and nutrition supplements sold here; therefore manufacturers can sell these without providing proof of effectiveness or safety.
FDA regulations do require that labels for dietary supplements include information regarding their manufacturer and place of business; an indication that it is dietary supplement; the Supplement Facts panel with list of ingredients; as well as details regarding other substances included within the packaging or container. Furthermore, manufacturers are expected to follow good manufacturing practices to help guarantee product quality and purity.
Manufacturers are prohibited from making structure/function claims that could render a dietary supplement a drug, and must include in their labeling an explicit disclaimer stating the product does not diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. FDA also monitors adverse events and product complaints submitted by consumers, healthcare professionals and companies to assess safety of dietary supplements.
