Millions of Americans choose dietary supplements when looking to boost their health. They can fill nutritional gaps, improve overall well-being, and help with certain medical conditions. But are they always safe to use? According to the American Cancer Society, supplements carry risks that can’t be ignored, especially for people undergoing cancer treatments.
While many supplements are safe when used properly, they aren’t subject to the same rigorous regulations as prescription medications. This means their safety and efficacy can vary widely. Understanding the risks is crucial if you’re taking or considering them. Let’s cover the basics of what you need to know.
Main concerns and risks of dietary supplements
Before adding these to your daily routine, consider the following risks:
Potential side effects and drug interactions
Side effects from dietary supplements are not rare. In 2019, nearly 70,000 calls were made to U.S. poison control centers due to supplement-related issues. Over 7,000 of these cases required treatment at healthcare facilities, with more than 800 resulting in moderate to severe outcomes.
One common issue is taking high doses of supplements or using them as a substitute for prescribed medications. Certain supplements can also interfere with prescription drugs. For example:
- Vitamin K can reduce the effectiveness of blood thinners like warfarin, increasing the risk of blood clots.
- Antioxidants like vitamins C and E might lessen the impact of some chemotherapy drugs.
- St. John’s Wort can make medications for depression, heart disease, and birth control less effective.
Make sure to always discuss supplements with your healthcare provider to avoid harmful interactions.
Special risks for cancer patients
For people undergoing cancer treatments, supplements can pose serious risks. Radiation therapy patients, for instance, may experience severe skin reactions if they take certain supplements. Some supplements can also interfere with chemotherapy by altering how the body metabolizes cancer drugs, reducing their effectiveness or increasing side effects.
Surgery is another area of concern. Supplements like fish oil or garlic may increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery. Others can impact how the heart or brain functions under anesthesia, leading to complications. To stay safe, cancer patients should consult their care team before starting any supplement regimen.
What you need to know about dietary supplements
Dietary supplements include vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids, and enzymes. While they can support your health, they’re not a substitute for a balanced diet or medical treatment. The American Cancer Society reminds us that:
- Natural supplements aren’t always safe: Supplements like kava and comfrey can cause liver damage.
- Excessive dosages can be harmful: Taking large amounts of vitamins A and D can reach toxic levels and damage your organs.
- Traditional remedies might not be risk-free: Herbal supplements often overlook long-term side effects and potential interactions with modern medications.
Some supplements may contain harmful chemicals, incorrect dosages, or none of the listed ingredients. Mislabeling and contamination have led to serious health problems and even fatalities in extreme cases. Avoid supplements that promise miraculous results, such as rapid weight loss or muscle building.
The bottom line? Talk to your doctor before taking any supplements. Even seemingly harmless products can have unintended consequences, especially when combined with prescription medications.
