A natural dietary supplement is a substance taken in addition to or instead of standard drugs for a variety of reasons, including the treatment of illness, nutritional support, and weight loss. These substances are widely available from health food stores, pharmacies, supermarkets, mail order catalogs and the Internet. Typically they are found in pill, powder, or liquid form.
As their name suggests, natural dietary supplements are often perceived to consist wholly of naturally derived ingredients, and a number of them contain organic substances with proven health benefits. In the US, however, natural supplements are not regulated in the same way that standard drugs are. Therefore, their contents may not be completely natural, and their alleged benefits may be unsupported by research.
Many people seek a natural dietary supplement to make up for vitamin deficiencies and achieve nutritional balance. For instance, those with osteoporosis may take a vitamin D supplement, as this nutrient assists the body in the absorption of calcium. Another common supplement is vitamin B6, which supports nerve and blood function. While generally the effectiveness of these types of vitamin supplements has been scientifically demonstrated, in many cases the body’s vitamin needs are fulfilled by a normal diet, thus making supplements unnecessary.
Another popular type of natural dietary supplement is derived from the oil of fish, nuts, and seeds. These substances contain fatty acids, which have been shown to have some effectiveness in promoting cardiovascular health as well as supporting joint function. It is important to note, however, that large doses of these oils have been linked to gastrointestinal distress, irregular bleeding, and even stroke.
Herb and plant-based substances are another common form of natural dietary supplement. This is perhaps the most controversial group of supplements. Some, like cranberry supplement — advertised as a treatment for urinary tract infections — are relatively harmless but carry no scientific evidence to support their manufacturers’ claims. Others are more dangerous. Ephedra, for instance, which has been touted as a weight-loss supplement, has been shown to lead to cases of liver damage, cardiac arrest, and death.
In the US, natural dietary supplements are not subject to the same Food and Drug Administration regulations as standard drugs. Despite the claims of its label, therefore, a supplement may not be wholly natural or produce promised effects. As many physicians lack in-depth knowledge of natural supplements and are thus hesitant to endorse them, it can be difficult to secure a doctor’s advice about these substances. Those who wish to begin taking a natural dietary supplement should consider first looking beyond the label to find out whether its benefits and risks have been conclusively established.
