Why I Stopped Taking Supplements

Supplements aren't safe; they're more dangerous than prescription medications

Unfortunately, it's true! Supplements are more dangerous than medications because of labeling loopholes. Unlike prescription drugs, the FDA does not have the authority to approve dietary supplements for the safety and effectiveness of the labeling before they are sold in stores or online. This means manufacturers have a loophole to take liberties with the label and the content in the bottle. And when the label doesn't accurately reflect what's in the bottle, the consumer never really knows, with certainty, what the supplement contains. 

Undeclared Ingredients & Harmful Interactions

Undeclared ingredients become a more severe problem when they interact with current medications, which can cause unexpected harm. And when the ingredients aren't disclosed, the consumer can't decide if the potential adverse reactions are worth the risk. 

FDA found medications not approved for use in the USA inside over-the-counter supplements. They also found undisclosed seizure medications, blood pressure medications, and more! The consequences of consumers unknowingly ingesting these substances are why the FDA sends a clear warning for the high risk of heart attack, stroke, and more.

Weight-loss Products Risk Heart Attack & Stroke 

More than 200 "tainted" and dangerous weight-loss products are listed on the FDA's website. Unfortunately, the list includes only the ones the FDA is aware of. New products are being manufactured daily. 

When adverse, unexpected reactions are reported, the FDA gets involved. But by then, the harm is done. And shutting down these manufacturers and recalling the harmful products is challenging, especially with the internet's direct-to-consumer sales model on social media platforms and global shopping sites like Amazon or online pharmacies.

Safe & Effective?

Supplements aren't "worth" the risk because there's no guarantee that supplements are safe or effective. They're not tested for either. Tainted dietary supplements are so prevalent the FDA categorizes these nutritional supplements into seven categories to help consumers search before buying.

Want more proof? Check out all the sections about supplements on the FDA's website. 

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