Taking dietary supplements can be a tempting way to get the nutrients we need, but it's important to remember that they can also be dangerous. High doses, taking them instead of prescription drugs, or taking many different supplements can all increase the risk of side effects. Even if a supplement promises to improve your health, it's important to remember that it is not intended to treat, diagnose, cure, or alleviate the effects of diseases. A systematic review that looked at the possible effects of nutritional supplements on cardiovascular health found that only omega-3 fatty acids and folic acid were effective in preventing heart disease.
The American Geriatrics Society recommends that people over 65 supplement their diet with at least 1000 IU of vitamin D per day, in addition to taking calcium supplements and eating foods rich in vitamin D. However, a study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that women who took supplements had a higher risk of dying compared to women who didn't take them. It's important to be aware of the potential risks associated with taking dietary supplements. Before taking any supplement, it's best to talk to your doctor or pharmacist about potential drug interactions and side effects. It's also important to remember that most drug companies and manufacturers of herbal supplements don't research potential drug interactions, so the risks are largely unknown.
