Monday, August 13, 2012

Hidden dangers of "Supplements"

So many people are looking for the "quick fix" and the "easy road" to health and fitness that when they see labels and commercials that promise you all these good things, they are so quick to jump on the band wagon... but what are these about? Are they really good for your body? People who are looking for that six-pack, extra energy for workouts or extra muscles and plan on using the dietary supplements, be cautious...

According to the FDA in the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994, defined "dietary supplement" as a product taken by mouth that contains a dietary ingredient intended to supplement diet. These dietary ingredients must include vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanical's, amino acids, a dietary substance for use by man to supplement the diet by increasing dietary intake or concentrates, metabolites, constituents or extracts, or a combination of these.

These sound wells and good, but the Food and Drug Administration loosely regulates supplements. Meaning, under the DSHEA, as of October 1994, a firm is responsible for determining if their own products are safe and that any and all claims are held accountable through evidence to show they are not being misleading. In easier terms... The FDA doesnt need to approve the supplement before it's being sold.


Although all the ingredients are listed in the Supplement Facts Panel, serving sizes are not regulated by the FDA. The manufacturer is responsible to ensure safety and there are no rules to regulate serving sizes. Because It's not required to give this information to the FDA, the only way to find information about the Supplement Facts Panel is to contact the manufacturers themselves

So, ultimately it is up to the consumer themselves to research and educate themselves on all the ingredients to find what is best for their body and activity level. If you have questions never hesitate to ask me, and I will do my best to help give you the resources needed.