Taking supplements can be beneficial for some people, but prolonged use can lead to serious side effects. Skin rashes, shortness of breath, diarrhea, severe joint or muscle pain, difficulty speaking and blood in the urine are all potential adverse events that may result from taking supplements. Vitamin D is one of the most popular supplements, as it helps the body absorb calcium and can protect bones from diseases like osteoporosis. However, taking too much vitamin D can cause muscle pain, mood disorders, abdominal pain and kidney stones.
It can also increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. The American Geriatrics Society recommends that people over 65 supplement their diet with at least 1000 IU of vitamin D per day, in addition to taking calcium supplements and eating foods rich in vitamin D. It's important to note that vitamin D supplements and medications can interact with each other, so it's important to talk to a doctor or pharmacist before taking any supplements.
The Risks of Prolonged Supplement Use
A recent study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that adverse effects from supplements were responsible for an average of about 23,000 emergency department visits per year.Weight-loss products accounted for a quarter of all emergency department visits with a single product and disproportionately affected women, while men were more likely to experience adverse effects from products advertised for sexual enhancement and bodybuilding. It's important to be aware of the potential side effects of taking supplements and to be aware of any potential interactions with other medications. Ask your pharmacist, doctor or nurse to review everything you take to make sure that supplements don't cause any harmful effects.
Tips for Safe Supplement Use
When it comes to taking supplements, it's important to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to ensure safe use.Here are some tips for safe supplement use:
- Talk to your doctor or pharmacist. Before taking any supplement, it's important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist about potential interactions with other medications you may be taking.
- Read labels carefully. Make sure you understand what ingredients are in the supplement you're taking and how much you should take.
- Be aware of potential side effects. Some supplements can cause serious side effects if taken in large doses or for prolonged periods of time.
- Follow dosage instructions. Make sure you follow the dosage instructions on the label carefully.
