Supplement Safety
How dietary supplements are regulated in the U.S., what labels actually mean, and how to evaluate a product before buying it.
How dietary supplements are regulated in the U.S., what labels actually mean, and how to evaluate a product before buying it.
Under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act, supplements are regulated more like food than drugs. Manufacturers do not need FDA approval before selling a product, which places more responsibility on consumers to evaluate quality.
Labels must list a Supplement Facts panel, ingredients, and serving size, but claims about effectiveness are not independently verified before the product reaches shelves.
Independent certification programs test for label accuracy and contaminants. A recognized seal is not a guarantee of effectiveness, but it does reduce the risk of mislabeled or contaminated products.
Look for products that disclose exact dosages rather than hiding ingredients inside a vague "proprietary blend," which makes it difficult to assess actual potency.
The FTC requires health claims in advertising to be truthful and substantiated. Testimonials and "miracle" language are common red flags worth scrutinizing.
Discuss new supplements with a healthcare provider, especially alongside existing medications, pregnancy, or chronic conditions where interactions are more likely.