Natural dietary supplements

"Clinically proven to accelerate your weight loss"; "muscle growth never seen before...100% safe"; "money back guarantee!"

You may have seen ads for natural dietary supplements in the back pages of magazines or on the Internet. They may be "scientifically proven", backed by "hundreds of satisfied customers" -- and a 30-day supply is just a free phone call away.

But do you believe everything you hear? How do you know if a dietary supplement really works -- or if it's fake? Are supplements safe?

What are natural dietary supplements?

Most people at some point in their lives will probably take a dietary supplement in the form of a vitamin or mineral supplement.  Perhaps as a child you were given a fruity-flavoured vitamin pill each day.

Today, dietary supplements are a big business. They consist of a wide range of products, including multivitamins, minerals, amino acids and herbs. You can get supplements in a variety of forms, from capsules and tablets, to liquids, extracts and powders. You can buy them at your local supermarket or chemist - and even on the Internet.

Can dietary supplements harm my health?

The problem is, while dietary supplements are called 'natural', some can have a drug-like effect on the body. However, many people believe that 'natural' means completely safe, and that's not always the case. Many natural products can affect your body and have an impact on medications prescribed by your doctor. It’s therefore important that you consult your doctor before you start taking any supplement. 

Here are some examples of "natural supplements" that have prompted medical concern:

• Androstenedione. A steroid precursor that claims to enhance athletic performance and boost testosterone levels. Not only does androstenedione increase the concentration of oestrogen (a female hormone), which can lead to breast development and impotence in men, it may cause abnormal periods, deepening of the voice and increased facial hair in women. Androstenedione has subsequently been banned by several international sports associations, including the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
• Creatine. On the surface, creatine seems safe as it occurs naturally in the organs, muscles and body fluids. However, creatine sometimes causes side effects, like diarrhoea, cramps and loss of appetite. Weight gain, muscle cramps and loss of kidney function are also associated with taking creatine.
• Ephedra. Was once used in many weight loss products available over the counter. However, when the side effects of using ephedra, which included the increased risk of heart problems and stroke, became apparent, it was banned for use in slimming products in the UK.

Does my doctor approve of natural dietary supplements?

It is always important to talk to your doctor before taking any natural dietary supplement. Just because something is "natural" does not mean that it is always safe.