What should I look for when buying vitamin,

What should I look for when buying vitamin,

mineral and herbal supplements?

Because supplement quality is not regulated beyond the requirements

described above, it's up to the consumer to practice caveat emptor ("Let the

buyer beware."). When you shop for health supplements, look for the

following:

• An established brand. Certain companies have been manufacturing

quality supplements for decades. While newcomers can be selling a

superior supplement, it makes sense to start your research with the

tried-and-true. Health food store vitamin department staff are

expected to be knowledgeable about their inventory. Ask questions

about supplements you're considering purchasing to determine the

best choices for your unique needs.

• The Latin name of an herb, including genus and species, or the

common name of the herb you want. Most herbs have more than one

species, and not every species has medicinal value. Again, if you're

unsure, ask for assistance.

• Customer service information. Ideally, either a toll-free phone # to

call, a website, or both.

• Recommendations for use. Does the bottle or other container clearly

state how much of the supplement to take and when?

• Function statement. How the product maintains healthy or normal

bodily structures or functions, as described above.

• Amount per serving and % Daily Value (the latter will say "Daily

Value not established" for herbs).

• Other ingredients. Some supplements contain just the vitamin,

mineral or herb itself, but the vast majority contain minor amounts of

additional ingredients as binders, fillers, or for flavor, such as gelatin,

silica, magnesium stearate, and artificial colors or flavors. If you are

unfamiliar with an ingredient, find out its purpose before buying the

product.

• Additives statement. The product should state whether it is free of

common allergens, such as corn, wheat, and milk.

• Warning statement. For example, "Do not use if you are pregnant."

• Lot number. Helps manufacturers locate the original batch if

problems arise.

• Expiration date. Make sure it's post-dated for at least the length of

time you will spend using up the contents.

• Storage instructions.

http://www.helpguide.org/life/supplements_dietary_nutritional_herbal.htm#1994