ABOUT DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS

A dietary supplement is a product intended for ingestion that, among other requirements, contains a “dietary ingredient” intended to supplement the diet. The term “dietary ingredient” includes vitamins and minerals; herbs and other botanicals; amino acids; “dietary substances” that are part of the food supply, such as enzymes and live microbials (commonly referred to as “probiotics”); and concentrates, metabolites, constituents, extracts, or combinations of any dietary ingredient from the preceding categories.

Dietary supplements play a role in the comprehensive care plan for many Americans. For example, some dietary supplements can help improve or maintain overall health and help provide adequate amounts of essential nutrients that the body needs to function. Because taking supplements can also involve health risks, the FDA advises consumers to be informed and talk to their doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional before deciding to purchase or use a dietary supplement.