Factors to Consider When Purchasing Dietary Supplements: Warning Signs and Additional Information
In the bustling world of dietary supplements, it's essential for consumers to make informed choices. Here's a breakdown of key points to consider when selecting supplements.
Firstly, it's important to note that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve the safety and effectiveness of dietary supplements before they enter the market. Instead, manufacturers bear this responsibility. However, the FDA does regulate supplements once they are on the market and can take action against manufacturers who produce unsafe or mislabeled supplements.
When perusing supplement labels, look for the "supplemental facts" panel, where manufacturers list key product ingredients, and the "other ingredients" list, which includes all other components. A supplement label that does not follow this convention may indicate a low-quality product.
When selecting supplements, consider relevant certifications to ensure product claims are accurate and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) compliance. These include GMP certification itself, as well as recognized food safety and quality management certifications such as IFS Food, FSSC 22000, BRC, FSMA, and external accreditation by authorities like the Deutsche Akkreditierungsstelle (DAKKS).
Another certification to look for is the NSF/ANSI 173 Certification, which indicates the product's label reflects its contents. The United States Pharmacopeia (USP) verified mark indicates a product contains the correct ingredients, is free of harmful contaminants, and has achieved GMP status.
Different supplements may have varying concentrations of active ingredients, impacting their effectiveness and potential side effects. For example, omega-3 fatty acid has three forms: alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Many omega-3 supplements contain minimal EPA and DHA, which are the most beneficial forms.
It's crucial to be aware that some supplements can interact with certain medications, changing the way the body absorbs, metabolizes, or excretes that medication. St John's wort, for instance, may reduce the effectiveness of certain medications for birth control, depression, seizures, heart disease, cancer, and HIV. Always check with a doctor before taking supplements alongside prescription medications.
Before starting any supplement regimen, consult with a doctor or pharmacist about the safety and effectiveness of a supplement, including potential interactions with other foods, supplements, or medications. Key ingredients may come from natural, synthetic, or animal sources, which can be important for people with specific dietary or health requirements or religious beliefs.
When purchasing supplements, be cautious of products that make exaggerated or unrealistic claims, lack transparency, or do not provide clear information about dosage and potential side effects. Instead, opt for supplements backed by health professionals or research from peer-reviewed journals.
Lastly, research products thoroughly, using credible websites, such as the FDA's official website. By following these guidelines, consumers can make informed decisions and confidently navigate the world of dietary supplements.
