Our guide will help you navigate the supplement aisle and find the best one for you.
We say likely because theres no way to pinpoint an exact number.
What Are Supplements?
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Ever wondered what exactlyqualifies as a supplement?
Supplements are meant to complement your diet, not replace items or meals.
People on special diets or with specific food allergies may rely on supplements to adequately meet their needs.
This also means that it is not confirmed whether most supplements are safe for consumption.
Since they aren’t actively monitoring most supplements, the FDA gets this information from consumers reporting adverse effects.
Unfortunately, that’s not always the case.
Below, weve identified a list of things to consider when choosing a dietary supplement.
Consider Your Dietary Needs
One size doesnt fit all when it comes to diets or supplements.
The first step is to consider your dietary needs.
Ingredient Transparency
Companies are not technically allowed to make any health claims on their dietary supplement product.
However, since products are not reviewed before going to market, this opens the door for misleading information.
Other red flags to look out for under the ingredient list are proprietary blend, formula or complex.
This reinforces the importance of checking for independent verification, certifications and seals.
Another option you have when picking out supplements is organic or non-organic ones.
Organic supplements typically will be more expensive, but that doesnt necessarily mean they are better for you.
Organic supplements do not necessarily add any additional benefit to a products safety or effectiveness, says Braddock.
Shaw points out, Supplements should be used as a safety net.
Thats where supplements come in.
But which form is best absorbed by your body?
A pill or capsule can be easier to take on the go, especially if you travel often.
Those who are pregnant and breastfeeding have unique needs and should be careful with any supplements they take.
Dietary supplements can be a very helpful component to a persons nutrition plan.
However, you should always have caution before adding another pill or powder to your routine, says Braddock.
Avoid proprietary blends, formulas or complexes that dont disclose the exact amount of each ingredient.
Also, watch out for all known allergens and be aware that some supplements may also contain caffeine.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA).FDAs Regulation of Dietary Supplements.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA).Dietary Supplements.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA).Watch Out for False Promises on Some Dietary Supplements.
ConsumerLab.com.What to Avoid with Supplements.
National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements.Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL).
National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements.Daily Values (DVs).
