Tips For Buying Dietary Supplements
Food and medicine are two terms used when referring to healthy body functions. Dietary supplements have also taken center stage in boosting the immune system and keeping diseases at bay.
What are dietary supplements? Are they a must-have for everyone? Could dietary supplements be overrated?
What are dietary supplements?
A dietary supplement is an additive to one’s already-prepared menu plan. It is a product that contains one or more ingredients rich in either vitamins, herbs, amino acids, minerals, or other botanicals.
Stick to the prescribed dosage
Your supplement bottle has instructions on it. Read and follow the prescribed dosage because taking more than the recommended portion is wastage. Remember, you’re getting the nutrient from your daily serving and do not require excess minerals.
On the flip side, taking excessive minerals can have side effects such as diarrhea and nausea. In more severe cases, they can cause liver damage. Significantly, you should be keen on iron, vitamin A, D, and E supplements.
Take as recommended
Following the doctor’s instructions is more than taking the appropriate dosage. It is critical to read the label and take it at the prescribed time and frequency. Dietary supplements interact with the food you eat to produce an effect that affects body functions.
Food supplements work best when taken with food. However, some can be taken in on empty an stomach. Additionally, fat-soluble vitamin supplements should be taken with a meal containing some recommended fats for better absorption.
Talk to your doctor if you’re taking other medication and need to use supplements. Certain minerals and vitamins can compromise the efficacy of some drugs. You can also read the label to see warnings and recommendations to help you use the supplements efficiently.
Do not substitute food for supplements
A supplement is just that-a supplement. It is an additive to your regular diet. A supplement is not a substitute for food items that supply you with dietary nutrients. If you fast or skip meals for any reason, do not take the supplement, hoping it will supply your daily requirements. You also need to talk to your doctor if you’re on medication and taking supplements.
Natural does not mean safe
The notion that all supplements are safe because they’re natural-occurring is a fad. Manufacturers try to ensure that their supplements are as safe and natural as possible. However, consumers should be aware that the demand for dietary supplements can drive manufacturers to alter products.
Additionally, supplements are made from botanical ingredients sourced from everywhere. In the process, the ingredients can be mishandled or miss the manufacturer’s scrutiny. Consequently, some supplements may accidentally contain lethal substances such as lead and arsenic.
Search for third-party testing marks
The dietary supplement market is a regulated industry. Manufacturers must adhere to the industry’s quality standards during manufacturing, packaging, labeling, and distribution. Check for GMP compliance mark.
Conclusion
Dietary supplements are essential additives to daily servings in one’s meals. Consumers should take supplements as recommended on the label for maximum health advantages.
