Many of us are unaware of the potential dangers of self-medicating – even with something “natural” like a vitamin.
It’s essential to educate ourselves about supplements and seek information from credible sources. Avoid taking well-meaning advice from friends and non-credible sources about what pill to take for what ailment. Especially if the supplement is attributed with having “too good to be true” effects.
The first thing we must stop believing is that supplements are natural and, therefore, safe. Anything that has the power to positively affect our health will also have the ability to negatively affect our health. It’s naïve to think supplements will only generate “positive” results.
Here are just a few examples of the many contraindications of “natural” products:
All herbs act as blood thinners. If you are taking any blood-thinning medication, it’s best to consult your doctor before consuming herbs in any form, on a regular basis.
St John’s Wort, commonly used to alleviate depression, can make the birth control pill less effective. It will also decrease the effectiveness of cholesterol-lowering drugs, some chemotherapy drugs, blood pressure medications, blood thinners, and many other medications.
Goldenseal, used to treat colds, has the opposite effect of St. John’s Wort. Goldenseal may allow certain medications to reach high concentrations – sometimes toxic levels – in the bloodstream.
Glucosamine, a common arthritis remedy, is often derived from shellfish and should be used cautiously (if at all) by those allergic or sensitive to shellfish.
Chondroitin, also used by people with arthritis for easing joint pain, may be derived from bovine cartilage. There can be cross-reactions if you have beef or cow milk allergies.
For those with allergies to wheat, corn, or soy, be aware most vitamin E supplements are commonly derived from one of these three foods.
Stinging Nettle, used to alleviate seasonal allergies, is rich in iron. Caution is advised for those with Haemochromatosis (excessive iron in the blood).
Chamomile is commonly used as a tea to promote restful sleep or for indigestion. However, this plant belongs to the Composite Family (a vast plant family), the same family as Ragweed. Therefore, be cautious as there may be a cross-reaction if you suffer from hay fever.
The popular cold remedy “Cold-FX” is made from ginseng. Ginseng may have contraindications with certain health conditions and medications. Talk with your doctor.
Taking high doses of fish oil supplements (an omega-3 source) has been found to deplete levels of vitamin E in the body. (Incidentally, eating fresh fish* is a more balanced way of getting omega 3s, without risk of overdosing!).
There are many other contraindications – far too many to list here. Be aware of what you are using and how much of it you are using. Supplements can have a place and purpose in our nutritional needs. But far too often, we abuse their use, usually through ignorance: you will likely harm yourself if you have the mindset of, “If a little will work, more will work better!”
The potency of most herbs and herbal preparations often requires using only a small amount. Herbs used in excess over a long period can eventually reach toxic levels in the body, placing much stress on the liver and kidneys, which filter and purify the blood.
Use common sense with supplements. They are not “safe” because they are “natural” (whatever you define “natural” as). They certainly aren’t always safe. Herbs are our oldest form of medicine and should be respected as such.
If you have concerns, consult your family physician, a pharmacist, a clinical herbalist, or a naturopath.
*See my September 2021 column on fish at www.seniorlivingmag.com/articles/forever-fit-should-we-stop-eating-fish/
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Eve Lees has been active in the health & fitness industry since 1979. Currently, she is a Freelance Health Writer for several publication and speaks to business and private groups on various health topics.