Supplements are effective for providing the body with nutrients it may not get from food. They have a myriad of benefits to the human body but can be dangerous when misused. In the U.S, 70% of the adult population is on dietary supplements. However, not everyone gets the desired results from the drugs.
Contrary to popular opinion, you still need to maintain a healthy and balanced diet to get all the health benefits they pose. Whether you are making the purchase online or from your local drugstore, consider a couple of factors. Read on to find out a few things you need to know about supplement buying.
Ingredients
One thought you should always have in mind is that not every supplement will work for you. What worked for a friend or family may have adverse or no effect on you. Because supplements are taken in and digested by our bodies, we should always strive to know what is in them. Some supplements contain substances and chemicals that may cause an allergic reaction. Check out the video below and take note of the mentioned harmful ingredients.
Dosage
Supplements are like medicine, and therefore, they should be taken as per the dosage. Blindly taking supplements will not give you the desired results. Do some background homework to establish the correct dosage for you. Consult a physician before starting the prescription. They will give you all the advice needed and the dosage your body needs.
Price
Supplements do not come cheap. Before making a purchase, scout around and compare the prices of various stores. You will find stores that offer the original health supplements at pocket-friendly prices. When looking at prices, be on the lookout for a deal that is too good. In this billion-dollar industry, there are generic supplements that are usually cheaper. Remember that price goes hand in hand with quality and brand.
Side Effects
Carefully reading the ingredients and the information of the supplement includes also reading the side effects. Consulting a doctor before starting a program is advisable because they offer information on the potential side effects. Performance-enhancing supplements have health-threatening side effects if taken without precaution.
Manufacturer
While this doesn’t look like a big deal, the manufacturer should be a contributing factor. Avoid mainstream brands owned by big pharmaceutical companies. They are out to make profits and never have your best interest in mind. Do not be lured in by popular, flashy advertisements. An ideal manufacturer should be transparent, reputable, and FDA-approved.
With the myriad of benefits offered by supplements, more people are opting for them. However, they should be taken as per the instructions provided, or you risk getting adverse side effects. Considering the points above increases your chances of getting value for your purchase.