Natural dietary supplements are often used without concern, but experts warn that certain combinations can pose a real health risk.
Many people take supplements to improve sleep, promote calmness, or boost their mood.
They are freely available and often used without professional guidance. According to health experts, this is precisely where the risk arises.
Natural is not always safe
According to Parade, the word “natural” is often used in marketing, even though it says nothing about safety.
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The National Institutes of Health point out that natural products can still cause side effects and affect the body in ways similar to medications.
Dietary supplements are not regulated in the same way as pharmaceuticals.
This means that their content and potency can vary, and it is not always clear how products interact with one another.
As a result, consumers are often left to take responsibility themselves.
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Mixed supplements
Parade reports that experts warn against combining supplements that affect the brain or hormones.
Dietitian Shelley Balls and pharmacist Casey Greene explain to Parade that such combinations can cause side effects such as dizziness, fatigue, and reduced concentration.
Casey Greene also highlights that some supplements can alter the liver’s ability to break down other substances.
This can cause a product to work less effectively than expected.
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This combination is not recommended
According to Parade, St. John’s wort and melatonin should not be used together. Experts explain that the combination can lead to excessive drowsiness and impaired judgment.
The risk also applies even if the products are taken at different times of the day.
Talk to a doctor or pharmacist before combining dietary supplements, and consider lifestyle changes such as sleep habits and diet as a first step.
Sources: Parade, and National Institutes of Health.
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This article is made and published by Ida-Marie Palm Varbæk, who may have used AI in the preparation.