Contents
What are Nutritional Supplements?
How to Find the Right Supplements
How to Take Supplements
Nutritional Supplement Tables
Vitamins
Minerals
Botanicals
Amino Acids
Essential Fatty Acids
Digestive Enzymes
Phytochemicals
Fiber
Probiotics
Unique Nutritional Compounds
Learn more with these titles from Barnes & Noble
|
 |
 |
 |
|
How to Take Supplements
Always discuss your nutritional supplement regimen with your healthcare provider. In particular, clarify:
- The dosage you should take
- When you should take each dosage
- Special circumstances that may apply to you
Supplements and Dosage
As with any medication, it’s important to take the correct dosage of a supplement. Though most supplements at correct doses have no side effects other than the rare allergic reaction, taking too high a dose can create side effects. But determining the correct dosage for a supplement without medical advice can be tricky for a few reasons:
- Supplements are largely unregulated: The U.S. government provides recommended daily allowances (RDAs) for most vitamins and some minerals but not for other nutritional supplements. Dosage information for these supplements must be obtained from package labels or, ideally, from a healthcare provider.
- Dosage depends on purpose: Some supplements can be used for a variety of purposes and can be taken either internally or externally. The specific dose you should take often varies depending on the benefit you’re looking for. Consult packaging or a qualified healthcare provider to confirm your proper dose.
- Side effects may occur: If you experience any side effects when taking a supplement, consult your healthcare provider about whether you should reduce your dosage or discontinue use.
When to Take Supplements
Some supplements work best when consumed with food, while others are better taken on an empty stomach. Some should be taken at regular intervals during the day, while others should be taken only once a day. Some should be taken before bed, while others may interfere with sleep. Consult packaging or a qualified healthcare provider to confirm when you should take each of your supplements.
Supplements and Special Circumstances
If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking prescription or over-the-counter medication, always confirm with your healthcare provider whether it’s safe for you to take a specific supplement.
| Acknowledgments & Disclaimer |
