Even if you try to eat a varied diet, it can be hard to get all the necessary nutrients. Many people turn to dietary supplements to fill in the holes. Are they safe for you? Here are some things you need to know about dietary supplements:
- A dietary supplement can be a vitamin, mineral, herb, amino acid, or enzyme.
- Dietary supplements are not drugs; they should not be used to treat a disease. They may claim to help with a certain ailment but are not actually approved to do so.
- Eating a healthy diet is the best way to get all the nutrients you need. Taking a supplement is not a replacement for a healthy diet; supplements only aid in meeting the requirement.
- It's important to do your research before taking any type of supplement. Some supplements should not be mixed with certain types of medication.
- Just as it is not good to get too little of a supplement, it can also be bad to take in too much of something, especially iron, vitamin A, and vitamin D.
- Remember: Claims on the label have not been certified by the FDA.
Dietary Supplements: What You Need to Know [U.S. Food and Drug Administration]
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