Nutritional supplements a found in the grocery shop, pharmacy store, convenience store, large box retailers, and online these days, among other places. Dietary supplements include multivitamins, single nutrients, fiber, minerals, fatty acids, antioxidants, extracts, weight reduction aids, and even energy drinks and protein powders.
So, how do you decide which ones to purchase?
It’s not an easy task. Although the US Food and Drug Administration regulates supplements, it is up to supplement producers to provide the best quality nutritional supplements. However, be a wise shopper when you go shopping. Here are our top five recommendations.
#1. Understand why (or if) you need them.
Dietary supplements are best utilized to ensure that you receive enough particular nutrients—some multivitamins will do the job well. If you believe you need to take certain supplements for health reasons, you should see your doctor. Don’t make your own diagnosis.
#2. Hone your label reading techniques.
Labels are made to grab your attention and entice you to purchase the goods. Even though supplement companies are required to follow strict guidelines when it comes to health claims, you may find yourself looking at a product. Don’t trust anything if it seems too good to be true for supplements and health claims. Examine the supplement ingredients to get a sense of what’s in the bottle.
#3. Stay away from high doses & extra ingredients.
Suppose you need to purchase a bottle of vitamin C. You go online searching the best supplements store and see one bottle of vitamin C, another bottle of vitamin C with immune-boosting herbs, and yet another bottle of vitamin C with this, that, and another thing. Is the extra helpful information? Adding those additional ingredients may seem like a good idea. However, the more substances you add, the more likely you will have an unpleasant side effect.
Purchase just what you need. Follow the label’s dosing recommendations. Although most dietary supplements are harmless, consuming too many may be harmful.
#4. Select a reputable brand.
Are you on your own buying supplements? You’ve undoubtedly noticed certain vitamin brands you’ve seen for years—they’ve been there for a long time, so they must provide a good product. In such a scenario, seek Consumer Labs, The United States Pharmacopeia Convention, or NSF International-certified goods. These organizations don’t guarantee that a product is safe or effective.
#5. Assess the website when making an online purchase.
While buying supplements on the internet, you’ll come across anything from legitimate supplement manufacturer websites to low-cost knockoffs to websites selling useless or worse goods. Look for online shops that provide up-to-date, accurate information (with references) and simple contact information.
Finally, see your doctor before taking any supplements if you have any of the following symptoms:
- You’re expecting a child or are nursing.
- You’ll be undergoing surgery.
- If you have any complex health issues.
- If you’re on any prescription medicines.
Last but not least….
Buying from trustworthy shops and searching for vitamins manufactured with high-quality components which can help you to get the most out of your supplement.
Checking the ingredient list and searching for goods that have been tested by a third party, and buying from the vitamin and supplements stores near me may also help you to get the most bang for your money.
