Almost 80% of the world's population relies on herbal supplements for some health purpose, according to the World Health Organization.Whatever your ailment, condition, or health goal, you can find a number of supplements that support it.Not all supplements are safe, and they are not regulated as strictly as medications.Buying natural supplements takes some research and careful consideration, but knowing how to locate better-quality supplements and find the information you need may help you use and obtain supplements safely.
Step 1: Discuss your plans with your doctor.
The condition of your health, diet, risk factors, and current medications can be evaluated by your doctor to determine if buying supplements is a good idea.Some ingredients in supplements may interfere with specific health concerns, so discuss your medical conditions with your doctor before taking supplements.Many doctors and pharmacists don't know about supplements and natural products.If your healthcare provider doesn't have a lot of knowledge about natural supplements, you should ask for a referral to a professional who does.
Step 2: You should be familiar with supplement forms.
You should know the difference between pills, capsule, powders, teas, and the variety of other forms of supplements.The form of a supplement affects its absorption, so you must take your circumstances into account when deciding what's right for you.Don't hesitate to consult with a doctor or pharmacist.
Step 3: A variety of sources can be used to compare shop.
There are many places to buy herbal supplements.Shop around for the best deals.The National Institute of Health has a database of the ingredients in supplement products.There are a lot of natural supplement shops on the internet.Some specialize in specific supplements, others sell bulk product at wholesale prices, and others offer organic brands.There are a number of natural supplement stores in your area.If you want to speak with someone face-to-face about your needs, this is a great option.A selection of supplements can be found in chain retail, fitness supplement and drug stores.
Step 4: You have to read the labels.
The manufacturer's name and address should be printed on the label if you want to buy herbal supplements.If you have questions about taking your supplements, you can go to the source.If you don't understand something on the complete ingredients list, ask a doctor or pharmacist about it.You can find a seal from the US Pharmacopeia.The quality guidelines created by these regulatory organizations should be followed by the supplement manufacturer.The serving size and daily recommended dose are listed.
Step 5: Don't buy synthetic products.
Natural ingredients can be used in supplements.Synthetic products are more likely to contain harmful substances.Look for supplements that are labeled "natural" or "synthetic" if they aren't listed on the bottle.If natural and synthetic are used, vitamin E may be listed as d-alpha-tocopherol.
Step 6: It's a good idea to avoid supplements with sugar and dyes.
Not all of the ingredients in supplements are bad.Adding sugar may be an ingredient ending in "-ose", so try to avoid it.There are many dyes that are listed in the ingredients as a color and a number.Other ways they may be listed are simply as "FD&C," or "E."
Step 7: Don't use new supplements that are trendy.
Every so often, a new fad supplement is advertised as a cure all.These are likely just marketing ploys, and just because many people are taking a supplement doesn't mean it's right for you.It is better to wait awhile after a new supplement is on the market so the FDA can collect safety data on it.The FDA can remove a product from the market if it is not safe.It's a good idea to give a product some time on the market.
Step 8: There are concerns about the safety of using supplements.
In addition to the effects, benefits, dosing recommendations, and possible drug interactions of the specific natural supplements you plan on taking, you should also know some general information.The U.S. National library of Medicine has a database that can be used to check herbal supplements for drug interactions.If you're looking for a database about herbal supplements, you can find it here: https://medlineplus.gov/druginformation.htmlThere is no requirement for supplement manufacturers to run tests to prove their products are safe.
Step 9: If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medication, be careful with your supplements.
It is important to check with a medical professional if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other drugs.Your baby can be affected by supplements, like medications.If you are going to have surgery, be sure to tell your doctor if you're taking supplements.Before a surgical procedure, you might have to temporarily stop taking your supplements.There are health claims for people between the ages of 18 and 65.If you are younger or older, be careful with supplements because they can react differently in your body.
Step 10: Understand who regulates supplements in your country.
Herbal medicines and supplements are regulated differently in different countries.The FDA regulates natural products in the United States through the DSHEA.There are no bearings on the same product sold in other countries.The FDA regulates supplements by different standards than food and medications.If you want to find out what organization is in charge of supplement safety in your area, go to the library or the internet.Products made in the United States and Europe may be regulated differently than other countries.Toxic material and prescription drugs have been found in supplements made in China, India, and Mexico.If you can, buy herbal supplements from the U.S. and Europe.
Step 11: Do your own research on the supplements you take.
The claims that manufacturers make about their products do not have to be evaluated by the FDA.If you don't speak to your doctor or pharmacist, you can ask the distributor or manufacturer questions about the supplement.Someone can answer your questions.The NCCAM has a website that is helpful for shoppers.Consumer advice about using supplements safely can be found on the websites of these agencies.The websites have a list of supplements that are being reviewed for safety and should not be used until they are proven safe.Information for consumers is provided by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) and the Office of Dietary Supplement (ODS).