The supplement industry has exploded in the past few years and is now one of the major business ventures operating in the billions of dollars. Because vitamins, minerals, and herbals all sound safe, natural, and healthy many people do not think twice about taking them. Many people are purchasing supplements that supply the body with much higher levels than are normally found in foods.
Most substances when taken in excessive amounts can be of concern.
Professionals working on updating the Recommended Dietary Allowances are in the process of developing information for consumers that will provide specific dose ranges that are considered safe. Until those figures are available to the general public, consumers should not wander too far from the current RDA for most vitamins and minerals or consult a registered dietitian for further information. They can also cause adverse reactions in some people and may conflict with medications a person is taking. Numerous medical emergencies have been linked to the use of herbal supplements that can be bought without prescription. This herbal has caused thousands of adverse side effects including deaths.