When it comes to buying vitamin supplements, it's essential to look beyond the front label and review the information table for the supplement and ingredients. This will give you an idea of what's in the bottle and how much you should take. You should also find out the manufacturer's name and contact information, as well as if it's safe to take expired vitamins. Following some general rules when selecting dietary supplements can help you make an informed decision. Here are six essential tips to consider when shopping for dietary supplements:
- Check the label for the amount of vitamins and minerals in each serving size.
- Be aware of potential side effects.
Consuming too much vitamin B6 can cause painful and unsightly patches on the skin, sensitivity to sunlight, nausea, and heartburn. Very high doses of vitamin B6 can cause serious nerve damage, and too much iron can be fatal.
- Be aware of water-soluble vitamins. The constant intake of very high doses of water-soluble vitamins can lead to digestive disorders, liver damage, and even potentially irreversible neurological damage.
- Be aware of fat-soluble vitamins. Excessive consumption of vitamins A, D and E can be toxic and cause side effects such as irregular heartbeats, organ damage, bleeding, hemorrhagic strokes and, in extreme cases, even coma and death.
- Check for added sugar.
In some cases, the amount of sugar may be minimal, so look at the serving size and type of vitamin.
- Check for synthetic vitamin B12. Many people can absorb synthetic vitamin B12 that is added to fortified foods and dietary supplements, but some can't.
Make sure you read labels carefully to ensure you're getting what you need without any potential side effects or interactions with other medications or supplements. By following these tips, you can make an informed decision when selecting dietary supplements.
