Supplements

Supplements refer to products intended to add to the diet and supply nutrients not consumed in sufficient amounts through food alone. They include vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, enzymes, and concentrates. Supplements are typically sold as capsules, tablets, softgels, powders, or liquids. They are designed to address nutritional gaps, support health, or provide targeted nutrients, but they are not medicines.

Regulation for supplements varies by country. In many jurisdictions, products are regulated as foods rather than drugs, and they do not require premarket proof of safety or efficacy. Manufacturers are responsible for product safety and accurate labeling. In some places, claims about specific health effects are restricted, while third‑party testing and good manufacturing practices help verify content and purity.

Evidence of effectiveness is mixed. Some supplements have demonstrated benefits in certain populations—folic acid to prevent neural tube defects, calcium and vitamin D for bone health, or omega‑3 fatty acids for specific conditions. Others lack robust support or may be beneficial only under particular conditions. Quality varies, and products may be contaminated or mislabeled, underscoring the importance of reliable brands and ingredient transparency.

Safety considerations include possible interactions with medications, preexisting diseases, and life stages such as pregnancy or lactation. Overuse and high-dose intake can cause adverse effects. Consumers should consult healthcare providers before beginning supplements, read labels carefully, avoid making therapeutic claims, and consider testing or third‑party certification to assess quality and purity.