How to check if a dietary supplement is safe?
Nutritional supplements offer benefits, but use them cautiously. Prioritise a balanced diet with whole foods and consult a healthcare professional for safe, effective use. Ensuring the safety of nutritional supplements is crucial to protecting your health. Here are some steps you can take to check if a nutritional supplement is safe before using it.
1. To ensure the safety and effectiveness of a supplement, research the brand, check for certifications, read the label, and compare nutrient facts to RDAs or adequate intake levels.
2. Avoid supplements with grandiose claims or unrealistic results, and be cautious of “cure-all” supplements. Research ingredients, including unfamiliar or complex names, to understand their benefits, risks and recommended dosages.
3. Consult a healthcare professional before adding a supplement, read reviews and testimonials, and avoid proprietary blends.
4. If you experience adverse effects, stop using the supplement and report them to a healthcare professional or authorities like the FDA’s MedWatch program.
Importance of diet over nutritional supplements
The dietary supplements industry is not as strictly regulated as the pharmaceutical industry. Therefore, taking proactive steps to research and ensure the safety of supplements is important for your well-being.
It is important to note that supplements can address nutrient deficiencies but should not replace a balanced diet. Whole foods contain synergistic nutrients and compounds, making them preferred.
