What Do Supplements Do?
It doesn’t matter if they’re spilling from your medicine cabinet or pouring over the countertop in your bathroom, you’re not alone if you’re one of those millions of Americans who consume supplements or vitamins every day.
You may be attempting to combat a vitamin deficiency or lower your chances of contracting certain illnesses– or you may simply be more proactive regarding your health after taking supplements that promise to improve your overall health.
From vitamin A to zinc, Americans have been taking vitamins and supplements in their diets for years. When the first supplements became available in the 1940s, folks visited local drug stores to purchase these supposed to be magical supplements that would improve their overall health and wellbeing — and they never stopped.
5 Things You Need to Know About Dietary Supplements
- Supplements come in many forms.
“Whether in pill, powder or liquid form, the goal of dietary supplements is often the same: to supplement your diet to get enough nutrients and enhance health,” is the explanation of Jeffrey Millstein, MD, a physician who practices at Penn Internal Medicine Woodbury Heights. They are made up of at least one ingredient from the diet, which includes minerals, vitamins such as botanicals, herbs, amino acids, or other enzymes.
A few of the most sought-after supplements are available in a multivitamin (which can assist you in not having to take a dozen pills every day) however, they can also be purchased in a separate supplement. The most straightforward common denominator? They’re known as dietary supplements. The most popular dietary supplements are Calcium Fish oil Echinacea Ginseng Garlic Vitamin D St. John’s wort Green tea. - Are supplements worth it?
There’s a reason that supplements are popular: sometimes, they can be effective. “In fact, it’s illegal for companies to make claims that supplements will treat, diagnose, prevent or cure diseases,” says Dr. Millstein. Also, the items you buy from stores or online might differ from those used in research So studies can be misleading. - Supplements aren’t always reliable.
In most cases, multivitamins don’t pose any health hazards. But, it’s crucial to be mindful when you take any medication into your body. In addition, federal regulations regarding supplementation with food are less stringent in comparison to prescription medicines. Some supplements may have ingredients that are not on the product’s label, and these ingredients could be harmful. Certain supplements are advertised as dietary supplements, and in reality, contain prescription drugs that are not allowed in dietary supplements. - Consult your doctor prior to taking any supplements.
The first step is talking about your options with your health doctor, as a supplement’s safety and effectiveness could depend on your personal circumstances and health. Also, take these tips to the forefront when selecting a supplement: You should take your supplements in accordance with the label and the directions of your healthcare professional.
Review the label carefully, which will include the ingredients, and drug interactions as well as the percent daily value ( percent daily value). Be wary of extreme claims that claim to be “completely safe” or “works better than (insert prescription drug).” Don’t forget that “natural” doesn’t necessarily equal “safe.” Keep supplements stored properly and away from children. - It is impossible to beat the nutrient power of a healthy diet.
No matter what your aim is when taking supplements, one thing is certain: They’re a replacement for a nutrient-dense, healthy diet. “Supplements are meant to be supplementary — meaning they enhance benefits already provided by eating a well-rounded diet,” explains Dr. Millstein. Supplements should never be taken in lieu of food. Don’t overestimate the benefits a healthy salad can offer when compared to a pill that was made in a factory.