| When
it comes to determining the best nutraceuticals, herbal supplements,
vitamins and minerals, there are not many rules. Nevertheless,
there are a few strategies and intelligent tactics to make the
best consumer decisions. Use the following basic facts to help
you make your supplement purchasing decisions:
The
federal agency responsible for setting safety and effective
guidelines on United State food and drug products is referred
to as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Although, they
set the bar on medications and foods, the bureau does not mandate
the approval of herbal supplements. Additionally, the FDA does
not warrant that the information detailed on these supplements
is accurate. As a result, choosing the highest quality of herbal
supplements is a daunting task.
Prior
to finalizing herbal supplement products, choose products with
the United States Pharmacopoeia's "USP Dietary Supplement
Verified" seal. On vitamins and minerals, these labels
indicate that the supplement has met or exceeded the criteria
of manufacturing standards.
Choose
supplemental products that have been evaluated in clinical trials
or scientifically assessed. Generally, the label will identify
that the brand has endured laboratory testing. Submit a letter
requesting the manufacturer to disclose the lab results. Then
confer with a pharmacist or physician to explain any confusing
information. (Controlled, double-blind and randomized are the
best words used to describe the quality of any research administered
on a supplement. In general, medical professionals deem the
data from these evaluations as the most efficacious, credible
and valuable.
Make
vitamin, mineral and supplement decisions based on products
that include information regarding how the product has been
tested for cleanliness, uniformity, and environmentally-free
of contaminants (in example, lead, mercury, or other drugs). |
