Herbal supplements can have a powerful effect on the body, and some of these interactions with prescription medications can be dangerous. Drug interactions can cause unwanted or risky side effects, particularly when combined with medications used to treat heart and blood vessel problems, such as high blood pressure and heart failure. Vitamin E is a family of 8 tocopherols and related tocotrienols, of which α-tocopherol is the form generally used in supplements. Evidence suggests that, contrary to popular belief, high doses of some antioxidant supplements may actually increase the risk of cancer.
Table 1 presents a list of the most commonly used and researched botanical supplements, their main active components, typical use and dosage, and reported adverse effects.
Dietary supplements
are not totally safe and can pose risks, especially for people being treated for cancer. Manufacturers may claim that a supplement promotes health or supports a part or function of the body (such as heart health or the immune system). The accumulation of cases over time or the occurrence of a group of cases may ultimately establish that taking a supplement can cause adverse effects.Foods fortified with nutrients such as vitamins and minerals are not considered dietary supplements. If you search for dietary supplements on the Internet and find a site that claims that its products can diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat, or prevent a disease, go directly to another site. Some dietary supplements can help you get adequate amounts of essential nutrients if you don't eat a variety of nutritious foods. If you're already getting the recommended amount of nutrients by eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy products and proteins, eating nutritional supplements has little or no added benefit. As an expert in nutrition and health, I'm often asked about the safety of dietary and herbal supplements. While it's true that these products can have powerful effects on the body, it's important to understand that they can also be dangerous if not taken properly.
It's important to understand how these products interact with prescription medications and how they can affect your health. When it comes to dietary supplements, it's important to remember that they are not regulated by the FDA in the same way as prescription medications. This means that manufacturers may make claims about their products that are not backed up by scientific evidence. It's important to do your research before taking any supplement to make sure it is safe for you. It's also important to remember that some dietary supplements may interact with certain medications or have other side effects. For example, vitamin E is known to interact with certain blood pressure medications and may increase the risk of bleeding when taken in high doses.
It's important to talk to your doctor before taking any supplement to make sure it won't interfere with any medications you are taking. Finally, it's important to remember that dietary supplements are not a substitute for a healthy diet. Eating a variety of nutritious foods is still the best way to get all the essential vitamins and minerals your body needs. If you're already getting enough nutrients from your diet, taking nutritional supplements has little or no added benefit. In conclusion, dietary and herbal supplements can be beneficial when taken properly but can also be dangerous if not taken correctly. It's important to do your research before taking any supplement and talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
