Nutritional Supplements: An Overview (cont)
The majority of nutritional supplements have few side effects and can be taken safely, but all supplements should be treated with the same caution given to conventional medicine. Despite the FDA's insistence that nutritional supplements are not medicinal, many people use supplements as alternative treatments to pharmaceutical medicine. Use of nutritional supplements to treat ailments certainly has some validity, but should never be used to treat serious medical conditions. The primary goal of nutritional supplements is to provide nutrients to complete a healthy diet. However, nutritional supplements are not a replacement for a healthy diet. Eating a well-rounded diet remains the best way to prevent many health problems and to provide your body with essential nutrients.
Since supplements are not monitored by the FDA, a word of warning: differing brands may range in their quality, purity, and strength of ingredients. All ingredients must, by law, be listed, so be sure to read what is in a particular supplement if you have certain food allergies. Doctors and other nutrition specialists should be able to recommend certain brands for the individual needs of each person.
There are some risks associated with nutritional supplements. Just as with prescription or over-the-counter drugs, it is possible to overdose and put yourself at health risks. Always talk to your doctor about any supplements you may be taking, especially if you are also taking medication. Certain conditions can make health risks greater. For example, pregnant women should always talk to their doctor before taking any supplements, as certain ones may impair growth of the fetus; those with high blood pressure are advised not to take ginseng and hawthorn berries, etc. It is important to read labels carefully for any possible risks or side effects.
