Health Forge Daily

Supplement Ingredients

This section explains the ingredients found in supplements, from vitamins and minerals to herbs, amino acids and probiotics.

Each guide covers what the ingredient is, the doses used in human research, how strong that evidence is, common side effects and known interactions. We use these guides as the base for every product review.

Many ingredients interact with medicines. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before use if you take medication, are pregnant or have a chronic condition.

Does the FDA approve supplement ingredients before they are sold?

No. The FDA does not approve dietary supplements for safety or effectiveness before they go on sale. Companies are responsible for making sure their products are safe and labeled correctly. That is why it helps to look for third party quality seals and to check each ingredient against independent sources such as NIH. Ask your pharmacist about interactions.

Source: Using Dietary Supplements Wisely, NCCIH