2023-09-27 17:20:23
Title: The Risks of Taking Nutritional Supplements Without Medical Guidance
Published: September 27, 2023, 4:45 a.m
By: Juliane Gutmann
The trend of taking nutritional supplements without professional guidance is becoming increasingly popular, but experts warn against the potential dangers associated with this practice. Attempting to self-medicate with supplements can lead to imbalances in electrolytes, causing serious health risks. It is advisable to consult a doctor or pharmacist before incorporating any supplements into your routine.
Imbalances in the body’s electrolytes, such as low iron levels leading to anemia or elevated calcium levels resulting in nausea and abdominal cramps, can have harmful effects on one’s well-being. In severe cases, high calcium levels can even lead to cardiac arrhythmias and death. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize professional advice when considering taking nutritional supplements.
According to the poison information center in Erfurt, inquiries regarding high-dose vitamin D preparations have been on the rise since 2022. However, it is worth noting that most of these inquiries pertained to accidental overdoses, which were relatively harmless. Yet, cases of vitamin D overdoses have the potential to turn life-threatening.
The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) warns against excessive intake of vitamin D, which can cause hypercalcemia — increased levels of calcium in the body. Symptoms of hypercalcemia include nausea, loss of appetite, abdominal cramps, vomiting, kidney damage, cardiac arrhythmias, loss of consciousness, and death. Since vitamin D can be stored in the body, both acute and gradual overdoses are possible.
To minimize the risk of side effects resulting from over-the-counter dietary supplements, consumers should adhere to the following guidelines:
1. Recognize that dietary supplements are primarily for healthy individuals and should not replace a balanced diet.
2. Understand that dietary supplements have a different regulatory framework than medications, with no approval process or reporting point for side effects.
3. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to avoid overdosing.
In most cases, nutritional supplements are unnecessary for individuals without nutrient deficiencies. Quarks, a knowledge portal, further emphasizes this point. If there is uncertainty about potential deficiencies, a visit to the doctor for a medical blood test can provide clarity on whether nutritional supplements are necessary.
It is essential to note that this article provides general information and is not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment, or medication. It is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice. Unfortunately, our editorial team cannot respond to individual inquiries regarding medical conditions.
By sharing this essential information, we hope to raise awareness about the potential risks associated with unsupervised use of nutritional supplements. Prioritizing professional guidance and medical advice is crucial for maintaining one’s health and well-being.]
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