All supplements they are not created equal. In fact, some supplements may be doing more harm than good.
“Supplements are meant to replenish shortcomings. They were never intended to replace a healthy diet and should be taken only when a person is unable to meet their needs due to dietary restrictions or malabsorption disease,” says the registered dietitian. paul doebrichRDN, MPHowner of a private nutrition practice, adding that it’s important to note that supplements are not regulated by the FDA, so manufacturers have a lot of latitude in what products they sell and promote.
“Always be sure to talk to a healthcare professional before take supplements. Some substances used in supplements can interact with medications, including antidepressants or blood thinners,” he continued, noting that you should also keep in mind that often the claim on a supplement bottle isn’t rooted in science and it’s just marketing.” While most consumers believe that supplements count as drugs and are regulated in the same way, this is not the case. They are the least regulated product on the shelves of supermarkets or pharmacies.”
Read on for six supplements some people shouldn’t be taking and why, and for more on eating healthy, don’t miss out. The #1 Best Juice to Drink Every Day, Science Says.
Do you regularly take these supplements before training or to give yourself a boost? It’s time to reevaluate. “Any ‘energy’ supplement is likely to contain caffeine. Energy supplements often have high levels of caffeine and most consumers will take them in addition to their daily coffee. Excessive consumption could lead to complications including anxiety, insomnia, heart rate rapid , diarrhea or high blood pressure,” Doebrich said. “Energy supplements are a common cause of emergency room visits due to extreme side effects.” Here’s more about Why should you avoid caffeine pills?.
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These buzz supplements may not be worth it. “Herbal supplements are usually derived from plants or herbs, but they are not necessarily safe or effective,” he says. Ronald Smith, Dr.of EatDrinkBinge.com. “It is possible that they may contain ingredients that interact with prescription medications or cause dangerous side effects,” she added. As always, check with your doctor before adding any supplements, even herbal ones, to your routine.
As Doebrich points out, St. John’s wort is a popular herb used to naturally relieve depression, insomnia, or menopausal symptoms. “But while this powerful herb may help certain conditions, it may also cause life-threatening complications when taken with an antidepressant,” he said. “In addition, it could potentially reduce the effectiveness of certain birth control pills, chemotherapy or antivirals.”
This supplement may be all the rage, but experts warn some people should avoid it. “The herb is said to enhance immunity, have a calming effect, and reduce blood pressure; however, ashwagandha might increase thyroid hormone production. This could increase the side effects of thyroid medications,” Doebrich says. “The herb could also lower blood sugar levels. People with diabetes should avoid taking ashwagandha because blood sugar can drop to dangerously low levels.” That’s why Doebrich recommends that anyone taking ashwagandha monitor symptoms of low blood sugar, such as tiredness , anxiety, or rapid heartbeat.
“fish oil supplements contain omega-3 fatty acids, which can help lower blood pressure, triglycerides and cholesterol levels, as well as reduce inflammation throughout the body,” Smith explained. “But some people have an allergic reaction to olive oil. fish (which can cause hives), while others may experience diarrhea, nausea, and stomach pain after taking the supplement. If you have heartburn, ulcers, or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), fish oil is not recommended because it can irritate your esophagus.” Researchers also recently found fish oil pills may not be all they are made out to be.
Could you be in this camp? “Excessive calcium from supplements could increase the risk of atherosclerosis and kidney stones,” says Doebrich. “by taking calcium supplementsIt’s best to stick to the recommended dose: 1,000 milligrams for adults ages 18 to 50 and 1,200 milligrams for older adults.”
Perri O. Blumberg
Perri O. Blumberg is a freelance writer on food, health, and lifestyle. read more
