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SUPPLEMENTS THAT CAN BE HARMFUL

For many people, a healthy lifestyle means more than eating a good diet and getting enough exercise, vitamins, supplements, and complementary nutritional products are also part of the plan. But though there is much publicity about their potential benefits, there is less awareness of their possible harmful effects. Some supplements can be very harmful when you have an underlying medical condition. Here are some facts of 5 most commonly consumed supplements.

1.Ginko

People often take this to try to improve their memory. Some believe ginkgo biloba also helps with circulation, mental function, and altitude sickness, among other health conditions. But it can thin your blood and cause bleeding. That's especially risky if you take blood-thinning drugs.

2.Ginger

People take this to try to ease nausea brought on by surgery, chemotherapy, or motion sickness. And sometimes it's used to treat arthritis or other joint pain. But ginger may cause problems with blood clotting, heart rhythms, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels. Check with your doctor before taking this if you are on blood thinners or have diabetes

3.Aloe

Rubbing this plant on a burn or wound may help it heal or feel better. But some people also take it by mouth, and that can cause an abnormal heart rhythm or kidney problems. It also may lower your blood sugar levels if you have diabetes.

4.Ginseng

Some people take this because they hope it will slow aging. Others take it for diabetes, to boost immunity, or to help with sex. But it may lead to a drop in blood sugar, so it can cause issues for people with diabetes. You also shouldn’t take it if you take blood thinners.

5.Garlic

Some people believe it helps with high blood pressure and can treat cold symptoms. Studies show it can lower your cholesterol a bit, too. It’s safe for most people, but garlic can thin your blood. That can increase your risk of bleeding if you take blood-thinning medications for heart problems.

Seeing a supplement as a solution may contribute to neglecting healthy food choices, and this has bigger consequences for long-term health.Food is a complex mix of vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals (plant chemicals). Vitamin and mineral supplements do not provide the benefits of phytochemicals and other components found in food, such as fibre.