(KY3) – It’s a constant on social media. No doubt a thumb stopper. We’re talking about influencers telling you to buy a trendy supplement.
Here’s what to know before you click ‘buy.’
Whether it’s liver support, an energy cocktail, or a pill to strengthen your hair and nails, you’ll hear boastful claims during a doomscroll. Just because it sounds good doesn’t make it true. A little homework can go a long way. Here’s how to do a quick check on supplements spotted in your newsfeed.
We asked Diane McClaskey, a pharmacist with Citizens Memorial Hospital, to help us vet supplement ads.
Dietary supplements are not regulated by the FDA.
“So they don’t go through the rigorous testing that prescriptions or over-the-counter medications do,” said McClaskey.
Some independent groups, like Consumer Lab, test what’s in there.
“People can look for that little seal on the label that could be an indication that it’s been tested and it does contain what it says it does,” said McClaskey.
Read customer reviews not tied to the company website or social media, like Google and the Better Business Bureau. See if there are complaints about shipping, refunds, and customer service. Lookup studies.
“The National Institutes of Health has an office of dietary supplements where consumers can go look for a product and read info about it,” said McClaskey.
Buyer beware. Manufacturers can’t claim miracles.
“This will cure your diabetes, be very wary of that. Do not fall for that,” said McClaskey.
Always talk to your doctor to make sure the supplement is not going to interact with your medications.
We asked McClaskey if any supplements really work.
She mentioned melatonin, milk thistle, and psyllium.
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