subject: Investigate Before You Ingest [print this page] You cant always believe everything you hear, and well, sometimes you cant always believe everything you read either. Dietary supplements can be a good addition to a healthy diet, but you should always be careful of what you put in your body. Next time youre at the grocery store, take a look at what youre about to buy and make sure youre getting something helpful and not just a label or even something dangerous to your body.
Not controlled by the FDA
Because the FDA doesnt regulate dietary supplements the same way it controls the food and drug industry, supplements can sometimes get away with incorrect information or omitting the facts. Since you may be putting these things into your body, you need to be wise about what is in them and how you can find out.
Reading the label
If youve ever noticed, there are different types of claims labeled on a dietary supplement. Some relate to health, nutrient, or structural claims that are supposed to help your body in some way. Health claims will describe the relationship of the supplement and how it reduces health related risks. Nutrient claims will provide the amount of the nutrient within, such as Vitamin D or Calcium. Structure claims tell how the substitute will affect the body, but cant mention specific diseases and will usually have a disclaimer stating that the product hasnt been evaluated by the FDA.
Whats on the label isnt always true
Unfortunately, because there are no regulations regarding supplements, there are not any real standards regarding potency or effectiveness of the product. Even if there is an endorsement stating that it is standardized, that word can mean a variety of things, such as each supplement is equal size (standard) or the production is standardized. This can sometimes mean that the amount of a nutrient or substance within is not measured to be a safe dose for your body. You may find yourself consuming dangerous amounts of a supplement without knowing it.
Scientific claims can vary widely
Something else to watch out for is what the supplements can claim. Scientific claims are often variable and have no set regulations. Certain products may only use claims that back their product, but may fail to offer information on any dangers the supplements carry with them. The FDA recently released a warning about botanical dietary supplements, informing the public that some cases of liver and organ damage have occurred when using certain supplements carrying steroid and similar substances.
Knowing for yourself
The best thing to do is find out for yourself what you are planning to put in your body. Medical libraries can be accessed over the internet, so do a bit of research before you change your diet. Because plant related supplements are becoming increasingly popular, you should also search online for Botanical dietary supplements and what effects they have on your body and its organs.
Dont let this information discourage you from using supplements, but you do need to be aware that not all supplements are created equally. Research what you plan on using, and choose wisely, because your body depends on you making a healthy decision.
