Professional-Grade Herbal Supplements and Nutraceuticals in Tucson

A dietary supplement (nutraceuticals and herbal products) is intended to supplement dietary deficiencies; thus, they contain one or more dietary ingredients such as vitamins, minerals, herbs, and amino acids. They are available in various forms such as tablets, capsules, powders, gummies, and liquids. Some of the most common nutraceuticals include multivitamins, vitamin D, calcium, iron, and herbal supplements such as echinacea and ginger. 

On the other hand, medications are substances that are intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent diseases. They undergo rigorous testing and clinical trials before being approved by the FDA for use in humans. Drugs are regulated by the FDA under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act) and its amendments.

In summary, while both dietary supplements and drugs can be beneficial to health, they differ in their intended use and regulation by the FDA.

The Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) is a United States federal statute that defines and regulates dietary supplements. The act was enacted by the 103rd United States Congress and signed into law by President Bill Clinton on October 25, 1994. The act established standards with respect to dietary supplements and exempted the dietary and herbal supplement industry from most FDA drug regulations, allowing them to be sold and marketed without scientific backing of their health and medical claims. Under the act, supplements are regulated by the FDA for Good Manufacturing Practices under 21 CFR Part 111 (FDA – U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
https://www.fda.gov/food/dietary-supplements ).

Is it safe to use supplements?

Yes, however, there are some risks associated with taking dietary supplements. While many supplements are safe and offer significant health benefits, some pose health risks, especially if overused. The FDA has found supplements that contain dangerous substances or contaminants, such as pesticides, harmful chemicals, or heavy metals. Research studies have also connected weight-loss and muscle-building supplements with serious, sometimes fatal, health problems, including liver damage, stroke, and cancer. 

It is important to note that dietary supplements are not intended to treat, diagnose, cure, or prevent any disease. They are not regulated as strictly as pharmaceutical drugs by the FDA; therefore, manufacturers do not have to prove that they are either safe or effective. The FDA does not even determine whether dietary supplements are effective before they are shipped to market shelves. 

To avoid potential problems associated with dietary supplements, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplement. Some supplements can increase the risk of bleeding or change your response to anesthesia if taken before surgery. You are most likely to have side effects from dietary supplements if you take them at high doses or instead of prescribed medicines or if you take several different supplements.

Supplements can play a significant role in health. For example, calcium and vitamin D are important for keeping bones strong. Pregnant women can take the vitamin folic acid to prevent certain birth defects in their babies.

To take a supplement as safely as possible:

• Take a supplement if you really need it and with the guidance of your healthcare provider
• Tell your care team about any supplements you use
• Do not take a bigger dose than the label recommends
• Check with your health care provider about the supplements you take if you are going to have any type of surgery
• Read trustworthy information about the supplement
  
  

Dietary Supplements: MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/dietarysupplements.html.