Above all keep in mind that under the law, manufacturers of dietary supplements are responsible for making sure their products are safe before they are distributed. The manufacturers are also responsible for making sure that the claims on the labels are accurate and honest.

The process of whether or not the supplements are safe is similar to the distribution of most food products. Dietary supplements, like spinach, aren’t reviewed by the government before they are distributed, but the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) must take action against any unsafe dietary supplement product that reaches the market. If the FDA can prove the claims on the supplements are false and misleading, the agency can take action and request changing the ads or shut down the distribution.

So what does this mean for you? This approach to lack of vitamin regulation simply means that you are the key to determining whether the supplement works and whether it causes you any harm.

One of the first things you look for when searching for a supplement is who runs the web site. If it’s the manufacturer or even the distributor you probably are not going to unbiased opinions and information. On the other hand, if the internet site is sponsored by a medical or health organization such as American Heart Association or by a government agency you have a better chance of getting honest information.

Once you’re at the website examine the purpose of the website. Is it to educate? to market products? Commercial sites are supposed to distinguish scientific information from advertising. Sometimes that doesn’t happen so it’s up to you to figure it out.

Then decide whether the information is current. Check the date when the material was posted or updated.

Now ask yourself are the claims too good to be true?  It’s important that you learn to distinguish the hype from evidence-based science. Testimonials don’t count when you’re looking for science especially when they don’t have formal training in nutrition. This holds true for the sales clerk to your friends on Facebook.

In my next post I’ll write about more questions you should be asking yourself to find out if the supplements you’re taking work. In the meantime, read the labels of the vitamins you’re taking.

To your successful healthy aging.
Ruthan

Ruthan Brodsky
Health Writer & Business Writer
248 568 6970
ruthan@ruthanbrodsky.com

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Filed under: Fitness and Nutrition

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