Health Tip: Using a Dietary Supplement

(HealthDay News) -- More than half of Americans take a dietary supplement of some kind, the Cleveland Clinic says.

But all supplements aren''t safe and effective. The clinic offers this primer:

• There''s no better substitute for a healthy, balanced diet, which can provide most healthy people with all of the nutrients they need.
• Supplements are a good option for people who can''t get enough of certain needed nutrients through diet. Pregnant women, athletes and vegetarians are prime examples.
• Too much of a good thing can cause serious health problems. Be sure not to exceed the recommended daily amount of any supplement.
• Supplements aren''t regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, so it''s up to consumers to carefully check supplement labels to be sure what they''re taking.

-- Diana Kohnle

Last Updated: Aug. 27, 2008

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