Dietary supplements aren't always harmless: Doctor reveals which three supplements he recommends and which are better skipped
Translated from Croatian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A doctor warns about the potential dangers of overusing dietary supplements, especially popular gummy vitamins.
- Dr. Amir Khan recommends only three supplements: Vitamin D, Omega-3 fatty acids, and creatine, based on strong evidence.
- He advises consulting a doctor before taking supplements due to inconsistent product regulation and potential for overdose.
Dietary supplements have become a staple for many seeking to improve their health, but a television doctor is cautioning against their indiscriminate use. Dr. Amir Khan highlights that while supplements can be beneficial, excessive intake, particularly of popular gummy versions, can lead to problems.
If you need supplements, the best way to take them is the way you'll stick to.
Dr. Khan specifically points out the risks associated with gummy vitamins. Although they can encourage regular intake, their candy-like taste may lead individuals to consume more than the recommended dosage, increasing the risk of overdose. Furthermore, he notes the significant issue of poor regulation in the supplement market, where product contents may not always match label claims, potentially leading to dangerously high or low levels of active ingredients.
Because they taste like sweets, people can easily eat more than they should. This can lead to an overdose.
When asked about his personal recommendations, Dr. Khan identified only three supplements with the strongest supporting evidence: Vitamin D, Omega-3 fatty acids, and creatine. He explained the basic benefits of each, noting Vitamin D's role in bone health, Omega-3s for heart and brain function, and creatine's general utility. He strongly advises consulting a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen to determine actual needs through blood tests and ensure safe usage.
Vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and creatine. The evidence for their benefits is the strongest. These are the only three supplements I take myself.
Originally published by Veฤernji List in Croatian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.