Do I Need to Consult My Doctor Before Taking Dietary Supplements? - An Expert's Perspective

It is essential to always consult a healthcare provider before beginning a new dietary regimen, including vitamins and supplements. Your primary care doctor is familiar with your medical history and can suggest the best supplements for you. Many supplements on the market contain several ingredients and fillers, so it is important to get proper guidance before making any decisions. Adding supplements to your daily routine can help you get essential nutrients and stay healthy, but it is important to talk to a doctor before taking them. The main reason to discuss the use of supplements with your provider is safety.

Dietary supplements, which include vitamins and minerals, can interfere with prescription medications, and taking a higher daily dose than recommended can cause side effects, according to the Mayo Clinic. The same goes for botanical or herbal supplements. Your doctor may recommend high-quality supplements, such as those with the U. S.

Pharmacopoeia seal, which states that the supplement contains the ingredients listed in the correct amounts and does not contain harmful amounts of contaminants, such as heavy metals. If you are considering taking supplements or are already taking them, be sure to check out science-based information. While buying nutritional supplements can be as simple as going to the grocery store or making an online purchase, it is important to talk to your doctor about supplements before you decide to take them. For example, St. John's Wort is a supplement often used in integrative medicine to treat mild depression, but it can also have the opposite effect, as it interferes with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), a common type of prescription antidepressant. A doctor will be able to educate you about the ingredients of supplements and how they affect your body.

For example, a sudden onset of fatigue can be a sign of a vitamin D deficiency, but it can also be a sign of something more serious that your doctor could help you treat or control. Your doctor may suggest adding whole foods to your diet and taking supplements if your body urgently needs certain nutrients due to illness or vitamin deficiency. It is essential that you talk to your doctor before adding any supplement to your routine, including a daily multivitamin. If you are concerned about meeting your daily vitamin and mineral needs with food alone, talk to your doctor. Protect your health and save money by discussing supplements with your healthcare provider before taking them. It is important for people of all ages to discuss supplements with their doctor before taking them, but it is even more essential for older adults.

Any information published on this website or in this brand is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional.

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