Here are 8 tips for safe use of supplements:
- The best way to use supplements safely is to avoid supplements you don’t need. Use supplements only if you have reliable information that the ingredient(s) will benefit you. Accurate information can be found at the National Institute of Health’s National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
- Select supplements with only the ingredient(s) that you need. If you need vitamin D then select a supplement that only contains vitamin D.
- Avoid supplements with more than one herbal ingredient. It is very difficult to determine the effect that multiple herbs will have on your health.
- If you take prescription medications or have health conditions, ask your physician if the supplement you are considering is safe for you.
- Avoid supplements that are sold to treat an illness, for example supplements sold to treat diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol. These supplements are more likely to be contaminated with prescription medications.
- Avoid supplements that claim to help you lose weight or improve sexual or athletic performance. These supplements may not only be contaminated with prescription medicines but also with dangerous analogs.
- Purchase supplements in retail stores rather than over the Internet.
- If you experience a side effect from a supplement:
- Stop using the supplement
- Inform your physician
By carefully selecting and using supplements, you can obtain the most benefit from supplements while minimizing the chances of serious side effects.
