Are you taking supplements correctly? Here’s a guide on their dosage limits
From vitamins C and D to calcium and magnesium, it’s critical to know if you’re taking the correct dosage to avoid health problems There are more than 100,000 supplements on the US market – capsules, powders, tablets and gummies sold to improve or maintain health. Supplements can contain vitamins, minerals, botanicals and amino acids on their own or in various combinations.The consumption of these products is surging. But it’s a common misunderstanding that these products are entirely safe, says Dr Pieter Cohen, an internist and associate professor at Harvard Medical School. Excessive amounts of nutrients can cause health problems, so it’s critical to know if you’re using the correct dosage of high-quality products. Continue reading...
✓Gummy.mom Insight
Gummies make compliance easy, especially for kids, but they are candy-like for a reason. This format often requires more fillers and sweeteners, which can dilute the active ingredient and make precise, high-dose supplementation difficult. For foundational nutrients like Vitamin D, a precise liquid drop or a traditional capsule might offer a more reliable and potent dose without the sugar. Always choose the form that delivers the dose you need, not just the one that's easiest to take.
News Report
The following summary was generated by our AI health analyst based on the original report.
Are you taking supplements correctly? Here’s a guide on their dosage limits
A recent report highlights a crucial, yet often overlooked, aspect of the booming supplement industry: the importance of correct dosage to avoid potential health problems. With over 100,000 supplements on the U.S. market, including popular formats like gummies, consumers are reminded that "more" is not always better when it comes to vitamins and minerals.
The article, citing Dr. Pieter Cohen, an internist and associate professor at Harvard Medical School, addresses a common misconception that dietary supplements are entirely safe by default. Dr. Cohen emphasizes that excessive amounts of nutrients can themselves cause health issues, making it critical for individuals to know if they are using the correct dosage of high-quality products. This warning applies broadly, from vitamins C and D to minerals like calcium and magnesium.
For someone specifically interested in Vitamin D gummies, this news is particularly relevant. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, meaning excess amounts are stored in the body and can potentially lead to toxicity (hypercalcemia), which can cause nausea, kidney problems, and bone pain. Gummies can be especially easy to over-consume due to their candy-like appeal and taste. This report underscores the necessity of treating even a pleasant, chewable supplement with the same respect for dosage as a prescription medication. It shifts the focus from simply "taking a supplement" to "taking a supplement correctly," which involves understanding the established Upper Tolerable Intake Levels (UL) and how a gummy's dose fits into one's total daily intake from all sources, including diet and fortified foods.
Takeaway: The surge in supplement use, including Vitamin D gummies, must be paired with informed consumption. Always check the dosage per serving on the Supplement Facts label, and consult with a healthcare provider to determine your personal needs based on factors like age, diet, and sun exposure. Remember, supplements are intended to supplement the diet, not replace a balanced intake of nutrients or medical advice.
Original Source
Read the full original article at theguardian
Medical Disclaimer:
The content provided on this page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. Supplements described here are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.