More and more individuals are turning to dietary supplements in an attempt to improve their health. Such supplements include herbs, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. As a physician, I recommend dietary supplements for a variety of reasons. However, even if a supplement is natural, it is not necessarily safe or effective. For example, tobacco is a natural plant.
Millions worldwide testify by their daily use that it has some desirable chemical effects.
Nonetheless, no one can question the growing list of tobacco's adverse health effects. Similarly opium and cocaine are natural products. On the other hand, vitamins in appropriate amounts are essential. However, overdosage can cause problems. Furthermore, some dietary supplements may be relatively safe but simply do not appear to be effective for their intended purpose.