More than 57 percent of Americans take dietary supplements on a regular basis. The older people get, the more likely they are to take them. If you, like many Americans, take herbal supplements or other vitamins and minerals, you want to know you are getting high-quality products.
There are a lot of myths about supplement regulation. Most people know that supplements are not drug products. But you may not be familiar with the FDA regulations that do exist.
In this article, we will cover the information that supplement users need to know, including what health claims can be made and how companies are allowed to advertise their products.
When you read food labels or supplement facts, you may notice that sometimes “natural flavors” or “artificial flavors” are listed. What does that mean?
Food manufacturers and supplement companies often use these additives to enhance the taste of foods or supplements. Most of us aren’t likely to consume things that don’t taste good. Natural flavors may be found in chewable or liquid supplements since some vitamins or minerals can have strong flavors that may not be pleasant on their own.
Natural flavorings are now the fourth most common ingredient on product labels. (1) Food additives do not contribute to nutritional value, but you might wonder if they cause harm.
What exactly does “natural flavoring” or “artificial flavors” mean on a label? The answer depends on each specific manufacturer.
You’ve heard the cliché, “when you have your health, you have everything.” It has never been more evident than in these past few years. Diet is foundational for your overall health and wellness. Yet, most people do not consume adequate levels of nutrients to support their overall wellness. (1) However, according to the latest data, nearly 60 percent of American adults do consume dietary supplements. That number increases with age. More than 80 percent of adults over age 60 take dietary supplements regularly. (2)
Not a fan of taking several pills each day? The good news is that supplements are available in a variety of delivery forms. From capsules to chewable tablets, to drinkable liquids and powders, finding your preferred delivery form can make daily supplementation much easier.
If you’re reading this, you are likely among half of the U.S. population buying dietary supplements. (1) Amid the pandemic, global dietary supplement sales reached $140 billion, as demand for supporting health and wellbeing skyrocketed. (2)
