Taking dietary supplements can be beneficial for some people, but it is important to understand the potential risks associated with them. Most supplements are safe to take, but there are exceptions. Too much calcium and vitamin D can increase the risk of kidney stones. Dietary supplements are regulated by the U.
S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as foods, not drugs. The label may indicate certain health benefits, but unlike medications, supplements cannot claim to cure, treat, or prevent a disease. If used correctly, certain dietary supplements can help reduce the risk of certain diseases and can also reduce discomfort caused by certain conditions or medications or help you feel better, which can improve your quality of life.
Most people can safely use dietary supplements as long as they don't overtake them. However, dietary supplements aren't totally safe and taking them can pose risks, especially for people being treated for cancer. Most people don't need to take vitamin supplements and can get all the vitamins and minerals they need if they eat a healthy, balanced diet. How dietary supplements are promoted and advertised depends in and of itself on how they are regulated by the United States.
These include glucosamine (for joint pain) and herbal supplements such as echinacea (immune health) and flaxseed oil (digestion). As a result, consumers may not know what to do with claims about supplements and may be confused about which supplements are helpful. Because of these concerns, many cancer experts recommend that people avoid dietary supplements while receiving cancer treatment. Some experts have called for stricter federal regulation to ensure that supplements are safe and effective. It's important that all women of child-bearing age get 400 micrograms of folic acid a day, either through supplements or fortified foods.
Previous research suggested that men who took vitamin E supplements may have a lower risk of developing prostate cancer. If you are pregnant, trying to have a baby, or could become pregnant, it is recommended that you take a supplement of 400 micrograms of folic acid every day until you are 12 weeks pregnant. Many of the health claims that companies include on the labels of their supplements can extrapolate the results observed in animals to humans or place too much emphasis on what are still preliminary findings. This site includes fact sheets and videos on dietary supplements for the public, educators, and health professionals. Part of the problem is that the current system doesn't track well enough when supplements cause harm, Cohen says.
Scientists have tried to decipher the effects of many botanicals or nutritional supplements, but the field is still plagued by weak or contradictory results. Vitamin and mineral supplements can be extremely helpful when prescribed to people with nutritional deficiencies and certain diseases. And keep in mind that supplement manufacturers and sellers have a financial interest in promoting their products.
