When Should I Take a Health
Supplement?
There are many types of health supplements on the market vnreporter, with a variety of health
claims. You should only take a health supplement if you are following your doctor’s
instructions and taking all medicines recommended by your doctor.
Dietary supplements are substances you can take to improve your health or
wellbeing, such as vitamins, minerals and herbs. They are often found in tablets or
capsules, powders and drinks. They are not meant to treat diseases or cure them,
but they can be beneficial when taken regularly.
Nutritionists and dietitians agree that a healthy diet is the best way to get the
vitamins, minerals and other nutrients your body needs. Eating plenty of fresh fruit,
vegetables and whole grains is important to your overall health. However, not
everyone can eat enough of these foods, so you may need a dietary supplement to
meet your daily nutritional needs.
You should only take a multivitamin if your doctor says it’s safe for you to do so. And
be sure to check the label and read it carefully. You don’t want to end up taking too
much of any nutrient, and you should never take more than the amount
recommended on the label.
Most supplements are safe, as long as you don’t take more than the recommended
dose. This is especially true for fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin A and E. Using
more than the RDA (recommended daily allowance) can cause side effects, including
heart problems and kidney damage.
Some vitamins and minerals can interact with certain medications, so it is important
to tell your doctor about any supplements you are taking. These interactions can be
serious or even life-threatening.
Don’t take supplements while you are pregnant, breastfeeding or undergoing
surgery. They are not a substitute for your prescribed medication and can make the
surgery more difficult or even unsafe.
Your personal health history can also influence whether or not you need a dietary
supplement. For example, people with specific medical conditions are more likely to
be deficient in certain vitamins or minerals.
It’s also important to be aware of the fact that some nutrients can be toxic at high
doses, as can be the case with supplements. For instance, large amounts of vitamin
B6 can cause brain damage. Similarly, high levels of vitamin A in the form of retinol
can pose a risk to a developing baby.
The NIH has published fact sheets about various dietary supplements and their
ingredients to help you find a good product. If you’re unsure about what you should
be taking, talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian.
Be wary of the hype surrounding some products that are not backed by scientific
evidence, or with a lot of money behind them. For example, some products are
promoted as “quick cures” and “easy solutions to your problems.” These products
often have potent medicinal ingredients that could be very harmful to your health.
The best way to avoid harm is to eat a healthy, well-balanced diet that includes
plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and other nutritious
foods. If you need to take a dietary supplement, speak with your doctor or a
registered dietitian.