Questions to ask before buying a supplement

Ask what problem it is meant to solve

Before buying a supplement, consider why you are considering it and whether a reliable health professional has identified a need. A product's presence on a shelf does not prove it prevents or treats a condition. NIH's Office of Dietary Supplements provides fact sheets about ingredients and evidence, while FDA explains that supplements are regulated differently from medicines in the United States.

Read the label carefully

Check the serving size, ingredients, amount per serving, warnings and manufacturer contact details. Keep the label or a photo of it to share with a clinician or pharmacist. Products can contain multiple ingredients, and labels may not answer every question about quality, interaction or suitability. Do not assume that natural means safe, or that more of an ingredient is better.

Get advice for your circumstances

Pregnancy, surgery, existing conditions, medicines and age can change whether a product is appropriate. Ask a qualified professional before starting a supplement, particularly if you take prescription medicines or are buying for a child. Rules differ across countries, and online marketing can overstate benefits. Do not replace prescribed treatment with a supplement without discussing it with your care team.

Health information note

This article is general educational information, not a diagnosis or a substitute for advice from a qualified health professional.

Sources and further reading

• NIH Office of Dietary Supplements: Fact Sheets
• FDA: Dietary Supplements