Supplements can cause harmful effects if taken in certain combinations, with certain prescription medications or before surgery or other medical procedures. Check the label. Product labels can tell you what the active ingredient or ingredients are, which nutrients are included, the serving size and the amount of nutrients in each serving. Save big on top quality vitamin & supplement brands. Save an additional 10% with auto delivery subscriptions. From protein powders and probiotics to collagen & keto diet basics, The Vitamin Shoppe has all your best-self-supplies.
Supplements aren't intended to substitute for food. They can't replicate all of the nutrients and benefits of whole foods, such as fruits and vegetables. Whole foods offer three main benefits over dietary supplements:. Greater nutrition. Whole foods are complex, containing a variety of the micronutrients your body needs. Essential fiber.
Whole foods, such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables and legumes, provide dietary fiber. As part of a healthy diet, fiber can help prevent certain diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease, and it can also help manage constipation. Protective substances. Many whole foods are also good sources of antioxidants — substances that slow down a natural process leading to cell and tissue damage.
It isn't clear that antioxidant supplements offer the same benefits as antioxidants in food. Some high-dose antioxidant supplements have been associated with health risks. If you decide to take a vitamin or mineral supplement, it's important to:. Talk to your doctor. Supplements can cause harmful effects if taken in certain combinations, with certain prescription medications or before surgery or other medical procedures.
Check the label. Product labels can tell you what the active ingredient or ingredients are, which nutrients are included, the serving size and the amount of nutrients in each serving. Watch what you eat. Vitamins and minerals are being added to a growing number of foods, including breakfast cereals and beverages. If you're also taking supplements, you may be getting more than you realize of certain nutrients.
Taking more than you need is expensive and can raise your risk of side effects. Avoid megadoses. Taking more than the recommended daily values (DVs) can increase your risk of side effects.
Children are especially vulnerable to overdoses of vitamins and minerals. 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S.
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