More and more Ukrainians are turning to dietary supplements to support their health: some want to improve sleep, others want to strengthen their immune system or improve their digestive system. However, the supplement industry is almost unregulated, so you can find products of questionable quality on the shelves of pharmacies and stores.
Naturopathic doctor and nutrition expert Jeanine Bowring advises following a few simple rules to avoid buying a fake.
Read the label carefully. If you see complex chemical names in parentheses after the vitamin name, these are almost always synthetic compounds, often derived from the petrochemical industry. Such supplements may not be beneficial and may even be harmful.
Folic acid is the chemical form of vitamin B9. Only folate exists in nature, and the body absorbs it effectively. The synthetic form can take longer to convert to the active vitamin, which is dangerous in folate deficiency.
It's best to choose supplements from natural sources, as they have higher bioavailability. For example, studies show that vitamin C from natural foods is better absorbed by the body than synthetic pills.
Other important tips:
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Consult your doctor before taking supplements.
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Avoid products with loud promises of quick results.
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Trust proven brands with certification from NSF International, USP or UL.
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Read the ingredients and choose products with a minimum of complex chemical names.
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Don't forget about natural products in your diet - they are always healthier than synthetic counterparts.
Supplements can be beneficial if they are of high quality and chosen correctly. Knowing simple rules will help you distinguish a real product from a fake and maintain your health.
