What To Watch Out For

Vitamin and mineral supplements are usually harmless when taken properly, but some other products may bring undesirable or even serious side effects. In general, experts warn the public to watch out for:

1. Supplements containing prescription drugs or ingredients similar to prescription drugs such as tadalafil (Cialis), sildenafil (Viagra), or sibutramine (Meridia). These are usually found in weight-loss supplements, body-building supplements and those that promise to enhance sexual performance. Supplements tainted with these drugs may cause stroke, liver injury, blood clots in your lung, kidney failure and even death.

2. Supplements that may interact with other drugs you are taking. For example, Ginkgo biloba may interfere with the action of blood thinners, which are used to prevent stroke and heart attack.

3. Supplements with multiple ingredients. Some combinations of herbs and other compounds may be hazardous to health. It is generally better to take supplements with a single active ingredient only. For example, if you need to increase your vitamin D levels, just take a vitamin D supplement as prescribed.

4. Supplements sold over the internet. Research shows that many drugs and dietary supplements sold by distributors over the internet are fake or tainted with other harmful substances. It is always best to buy your medicines and supplements from a local pharmacy with a licensed pharmacist who can assist you with any information you need.

5. Supplements with exaggerated claims or those that promise to cure certain diseases. These supplements may be tainted with ingredients that are similar to prescription drugs, which may cause serious side effects.

6. Supplements should never substitute for prescribed medication without medical advice. Replacing or altering prescribed treatments with supplements can lead to ineffective treatment, worsening conditions, and potential health risks. Always consult healthcare professionals before making any changes to your medication regimen.

7. Ignoring quality standards in supplements can lead to consuming products with impurities, incorrect dosages, or harmful ingredients. It's crucial to choose supplements from reputable sources that adhere to regulatory standards, ensuring safety, purity, and efficacy of the product.

8. Improper storage of supplements can degrade their potency and effectiveness. Exposure to heat, light, or moisture can alter their composition. It's essential to store them according to label instructions, typically in a cool, dry place, to maintain their intended efficacy.

Do You Need to Take Supplements?

Not every one needs to take health supplements but some doctors recommend them to their patients. These may include:

• Women of child-bearing age, who are usually advised take 400 micrograms of folic acid daily.

• Pregnant women, who are advised to take iron-containing prenatal vitamins.

• Adults who are 50 years of age or older may take B-12 supplements in addition to foods rich in this nutrient

• People who are not able to consume 1,600 calories per day

• Vegans or vegetarians who eat a limited variety of food

• Woman who experience heavy menstrual bleeding are advised to take supplemental iron

• Patients whose body cannot normally absorb or use nutrients, such as those with chronic diarrhea, food intolerance, food allergies, liver disease, etc.

• Patients who have recently undergone surgery and are not able to digest/absorb nutrients from their intestinal tract

Health advocates recommend eating whole foods as part of a health, balanced diet to obtain all the necessary nutrients they need to maintain well-being.

Read More: The 28 Top Natural Supplements For Women

If you are thinking about taking or are already taking dietary supplements, talk to your doctor about it to find out if you are taking the right supplement and the proper dose. Ask about drug interactions and possible side effects before taking anything. Do your own research but make sure to look for reliable information, which is usually not found in marketing websites or personal blogs.