Carissa Anderson,
Elite Nutrition Intern

According to a recent survey more than half of the American population takes supplements of some sort.  Because there have been alarming reports of unsafe or ‘contaminated’ dietary supplements, I think it is important to shed some light on the topic.  Many supplements slip through the cracks and are not regulated by any government agency.  Before 1994 supplements were classified as ‘food additives’ and manufacturers were required to prove product safety.  Now, due to limited resources, the FDA no longer requires manufacturers to show proof of safety before they market products.  So supplements are hitting the market while the industry gets by on the honesty policy and very little oversight.  Manufacturers don’t even have to include side-effects or health risks on labels.  That being the case, you can bet the content and purity of a lot of dietary products have not been tested.  So besides the safety issue, how do we even know these products work?!

Potentially harmful products could be marketed as anything from sexual enhancement supplements, to products claiming to improve your athletic performance, weight loss, and muscle building.  Keep in mind that these contaminants may not show up on product labels, but they will show up positive on drug tests.  A variety of supplements have been found to contain heavy metals, toxic plant additives, harmful bacteria, prescription medications, controlled substances, experimental substances and/or drugs previously rejected by the FDA due to unsafe side-effects.

This is not meant to discourage anyone from taking dietary supplements.  There are circumstances under which taking supplements may be appropriate.  I am merely suggesting cautious decisions.  For improving athletic performance, weight loss, building muscle, or any other desired result I recommend the following:

CLEAN EATING. Incorporate proteins and carbohydrates before, during, and after training session.  Keep in mind that dietary supplements are meant to supplement vitamins and minerals lacking in your diet.  The best way to get these nutrients is through a natural diet, but be sure not to do double duty.  Some vitamins and nutrients can be harmful in excess amounts.

MAINTAIN ADEQUATE CALORIE INTAKE. My Pyramid Plan at mypyramid.gov is an awesome resource for learning what your daily caloric needs are based on your weight (also desired weight if that differs) and activity level.

RESEARCH SUPPLEMENTS FIRST. Know what you’re putting into your body.  It’s also a good idea to check with your doctor first if you are nursing, pregnant, or have a medical condition such as diabetes or heart disease.

CONSULT A DIETITIAN (R.D.). Avoid guidance from professionals who have ties with supplement manufacturers.

Lastly, if you have any reason to believe that a serious event or illness occurred as a result of taking a dietary supplement the FDA wants to know. Call 1 (800)-FDA-1088 or report online at: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/HowToReport/ucm053074.htm