Dietary supplements are a $30 billion industry in the United States, and that number is only expected to grow. With such a large market, it can be tough to sift through all of the different products and figure out which ones are safe and effective. Here are seven tips for using supplements safely:
1. Talk to Your Doctor
This is especially important if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking any medications. Some supplements can interact with medications, so it’s important to get the green light from your doctor first.
2. Do Your Research
Not all supplements are created equal. When looking for a new supplement, be sure to read the label carefully and do some research on the ingredients. Some supplements contain ingredients that haven’t been tested for safety, so it’s always best to err on the side of caution.
3. Know the Source
Just like with any other product, there are good supplement companies and there are bad ones. Do some research on the company to make sure they have a good reputation and that their products are safe. Consider the track record on public safety, especially if it is a Big Pharma company.
4. Start Slow
Many people think that more is better when it comes to supplements, but that’s not always the case. It’s best to start with a lower dose and increase gradually as needed. This will help your body adjust to the supplement and reduce the risk of side effects.
5. Pay Attention
Be aware of potential side effects. Just like any other medication, supplements can cause side effects. The most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headaches. If you experience any severe side effects, stop taking the supplement and call your doctor immediately.
6. Store Supplements Safely
Supplements should be stored in a cool, dry place out of reach of children and pets.Some supplements can become toxic if they’re exposed to heat or light, so it’s important to follow the storage instructions on the label carefully.
7. Read Labels Carefully
Pay close attention to the label on your supplement. It should list all of the ingredients, the amounts of each ingredient, and the manufacturer’s contact information. Are the ingredients manufactured in a lab? In other words are they purely synthetic? Synthetic supplements are derived from man-made ingredients rather than natural ones. Many of these ingredients are created in laboratories and may not even be recognized by your body as food. As a result, they can actually do more harm than good. Synthetic supplements may contain fillers and binders that can cause digestive issues, and the long-term effects of taking them are unknown.
Supplements Can Be a Great Way to Improve Your Health.
By following these tips, you can make sure that you’re using supplements in the safest way possible. Join my private community for more wellness tips.