You’ll be shocked to know that there are likely over 100,000 different dietary supplements available on the market. We say “likely” because there’s no way to pinpoint an exact number. After all, the supplement industry is not regulated the same way food is by the Food and Drug Administration or the Department of Agriculture.1 While some databases exist for companies to voluntarily register products, participation is not mandatory.

Approximately 74% of U.S. adults regularly take supplements, and they seem harmless enough, right?2 Well, not exactly. Here, we’ll explore why supplements can be tricky and provide guidance on what to consider before purchasing your next one.

What Are Supplements?

Ever wondered what exactly qualifies as a supplement? A dietary supplement is a product meant to be ingested (aka swallowed), and they come in various forms: pills, capsules, gummies, liquids or powders. Supplements contain one or more dietary ingredients, such as a vitamin, mineral, herb, amino acid or a combination of these.

Supplements are meant to complement your diet, not replace items or meals. They can help you meet your daily nutrient goals if you need help and can’t get your essential nutrients through diet alone. People on special diets or with specific food allergies may rely on supplements to adequately meet their needs.

Read full article for Eating Well.com titled: 7 Things You Should Look for When Buying a Supplement, According to Dietitians. Find more of my published writing here.