Dietary supplements can be a great addition to a healthy lifestyle, but it's important to be an informed consumer. From vitamins and minerals to botanical and herbal ingredients, dietary supplements can provide essential nutrients when used responsibly. Nearly 3 out of 5 Americans use supplements every month, and understanding the basics of these products can help you make the best decisions for your health. Dietary supplements are products that contain vitamins, minerals, botanical or herbal ingredients, amino acids (the building blocks of proteins), and enzymes (complex proteins that accelerate biochemical reactions).
They are typically sold in several forms, including tablets, capsules, powders, and liquids. While dietary supplements cannot replace healthy eating habits, they can provide adequate amounts of essential nutrients when used responsibly. Folic acid is one example of a dietary supplement that can reduce the risk of certain birth defects. But it's important to remember that dietary supplements aren't drugs and don't cure diseases.
They are regulated by the U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and manufacturers must inform the FDA if there is a serious problem associated with a supplement, such as a side effect. The FDA may also recall dietary supplements from the market if they are found to be unsafe or if the claims in the products are false and misleading.
So who benefits from dietary supplements? Everyone can benefit from taking dietary supplements as part of a healthy lifestyle. However, it's important to talk to your healthcare provider about any dietary supplements you're taking when you're being treated for a health condition, such as heart problems or high blood pressure, or if you're pregnant or could become pregnant. A good starting point is the product label. The FDA requires that all dietary supplements identify certain information on their labels, including a list of ingredients and a label with information about the supplement.
If you take dietary supplements as directed, follow all guidelines and check with your doctor, the risks are low. Some side effects of dietary supplements include stomach discomfort, heartburn, gas, and bloating.
