Supplement use was a well-established fact of life in today’s world. Humans take supplements for everything from the fulfillment of their nutritional needs, health and wellbeing, to improved athletic performance. The amount of supplements out there is just overwhelming and confusing. This is the part of being a doctor: do your homework and buy supplements. In this article, we’ll share about the need to be a doctor when buying supplements, as well as how to shop well for supplements.
So, why should one play the doctor while going out to buy supplements?
You have to be a doctor first and foremost when choosing supplements because not all supplements are controlled by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In contrast to prescription medications, the FDA does not regulate dietary supplements before they reach the marketplace. That means supplement companies are not obliged to demonstrate that their supplements are safe or effective in front of consumers. Therefore, the labeling is frequently not consistent with what is actually in the supplement. Practicing the role of doctor will enable you to know which supplements to buy and which are harmful to your health.
The second reason for being a doctor when purchasing supplements is that supplements may interact with medications and other supplements. Most individuals take supplements in addition to medications they take and might not realize that they could be interacting with each other. Often, such drugs include St John’s Wort, a popular depression supplement, which interferes with birth control pills and lowers their effectiveness. By acting like doctor, you can spot any kind of conflict and make sure that nothing worse happens.
Third, being a doctor when it comes to supplement purchases will save you money. Supplements are costly, and buying the wrong supplements is a waste of money. If you study and learn your health needs, then you can determine which vitamins and minerals you should take and which aren’t. You can also play doctor to shop for supplements and find out what is the best price for your supplements, reducing your overall cost.
Shop smart when it comes to supplements:
1. Do your research:
The key to buying supplements safely is to research. That includes knowing your personal needs and working with a physician. You should try to find out what your nutritional deficiencies or health conditions are and pick supplements that will meet those needs. Talking to a healthcare provider can also help you decide if the supplement is safe for you to take, and whether it will affect other medications you are taking.
2. Look for third-party certifications:
Supplements aren’t regulated by the FDA, so you need to seek third-party quality assurance. These accreditations guarantee that the supplement is tested for purity, strength, and potency. Seek NSF International, US Pharmacopeia (USP), ConsumerLab.com certifications. These licenses mean that the supplement was produced in a facility that has good manufacturing practices and doesn’t contain harmful substances.
3. Check the ingredients list:
Before purchasing a supplement, always read the ingredients list. Find supplements that contain as little and natural ingredients as possible. Stay away from supplements containing synthetic colors, flavors, and preservatives. Also look for supplements that have a long ingredient list, which can also mean that the supplement contains fillers or other unused add-ons.
4. Read Customer Reviews and Ratings
Customers’ reviews and ratings can offer valuable insights into whether a supplement is good or bad. Consider buying from other verified users and reading both positive and negative reviews for a complete perspective on the product. Remember that every body is different, so what works for one person might not work for another. But negative feedback and ratings on a consistent basis should raise a red flag, and may be a sign that the supplement isn’t working or safe.
5. Beware of false claims:
It is crucial that you know the lie claims of supplement manufacturers. In many cases, companies market their products through false advertising with big guarantees of miracle cures and instant gratification. But the reality is that supplements aren’t designed to supersede a healthy diet or treat any illness. They are designed to complement your diet and give you other nutrients that you might be missing. Therefore, beware any supplement that promises to cure or treat a particular illness.
Furthermore, avoid supplements that advertise themselves as “all-natural” or “organic.” These labels are not regulated by the FDA, and even many products branded this way can still contain dangerous ingredients. Once again, it’s important to research and buy supplements from companies you can trust and are certified by a third party company.
6. Consider the price:
If it’s easy to take cheap supplements, then remember that you have to pay for quality. Find supplements that are cheap and affordable but don’t sacrifice quality. Also, stay away from free trials or auto-ships, as they are difficult to cancel and could cost you more in the long run.
7. Purchase from reputable sources:
When you buy supplements, make sure to buy them from trusted companies. Avoid buying supplements from marketplaces or third party sites, which might not be real or tampered with. Rather, purchase it from a health food retailer, pharmacy or directly from the company’s website. They are more likely to have high-quality supplements that have been stored and processed well.
8. Consider Your Individual Needs
Please keep in mind that there are not identical supplements and one supplement may not suit another. When choosing supplements, take into account your needs and health objectives. For instance, if you are looking to enhance your joint function, consider taking a glucosamine and chondroitin supplement. If you have low levels of a certain mineral, like vitamin D, then you may need a supplement every day. Make sure you’re modifying your supplements to suit your needs.
Conclusion:
Finally, becoming a doctor is an important step in supplement shopping. With the proliferation of supplements, it is imperative to do your homework, consult a doctor and shop around for credible brands. By following the aforementioned advice, you can ensure that the supplements you use are legal, efficient, and appropriate for you. Basically, take care of yourself when deciding on supplements.
