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Detailed Answers to the Supplement Quiz

Question One: False. The term "natural" may suggest that the supplement is safe, especially when compared with prescription drugs that are known to have side effects. But natural is not necessarily safe. Although many supplements can be used safely by most people, other supplements, including some herbal products, can be dangerous. Aristolochic acid, which has been found in some traditional Chinese herbal remedies, has been linked to severe kidney disease. And the herb comfrey contains certain alkaloids that, when ingested, have been linked to serious, even fatal, liver damage. Animal studies suggest that the herb may cause cancer, too. Certain vitamins can be toxic at high doses and some supplements have been found to interact with other medications in ways that could cause injury.

Question Two

False. Studies have shown that some herbal products interact with drugs and can have a wide range of effects. For example, St. John's Wort can lower the effects of indinavir, a protease inhibitor for treating HIV. St. John's Wort may also interfere with drugs used by organ transplant patients and drugs used to treat depression, seizures and certain cancers. In addition, there are concerns that it may reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives.
Garlic, ginkgo, danshen and dong quai can cause blood to thin, which could cause serious problems for individuals taking drugs like warfarin or aspirin. Although dietary supplements are not required to go through the same pre-market government review for quality, safety and efficacy as are drug products that doesn't mean they should be taken lightly or without consulting your healthcare professional, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking other drugs.

Question Three

False. It's unwise to judge a product's efficacy or safety based only on testimonials. First, it is very difficult to verify the accuracy of the account. Some marketers may embellish or even invent testimonials to sell their product. Second, we are all different and you simply can't generalize one person's experience to others. Anecdotes are not a substitute for valid science.

Question Four

True. Studies suggest that several popular supplements, including herbal products, may provide health benefits. For example, calcium can reduce the risk of osteoporosis, folic acid taken during pregnancy can prevent birth defects, and there is some evidence suggesting that St. John's Wort may be helpful for some people with mild depression. The bottom line: Check out any health claims with a reliable source, such as the National Institutes of Health's Office of Dietary Supplements, a public health or scientific organization like the American Cancer Society or the Arthritis Foundation, and your health provider.

Question Five

True. Talk to your doctor, pharmacist or other healthcare provider about any medicines you take, as well as any dietary supplements you're using or thinking about using. Though some doctors have limited knowledge of herbal products and other supplements, they have access to the most current research and can help monitor your condition to ensure that no problems develop or serious interactions occur. Retailers or marketers can be good sources of information about their products and their ingredients, but bear in mind, they have a financial interest in their products. If your doctor or pharmacist has a financial concern in the product, get a second, independent opinion.