Every day we see different supplements jumping off the shelves or on the internet asking us to buy them. Many companies insist you take a small packet of all their supplements in one day. Just how many supplements do we need? There are some who take as many as 20 supplements per day! Is this all necessary?

Are we absorbing and utilizing all these tablets and capsules in our body or are they just sitting there and being eliminated with no use, and maybe some harm to our body?

The Truth

In large amounts supplements can be toxic. In recent years, taking supplements has become almost a fad. Some people think if a little helps, more is even better. What they don't realize is that there can be toxic effects from too much of a good thing. For example, according to the National Institute of Health, Dietary Supplement Fact Sheet:

Vitamin A - has been reported to be toxic to pregnant women who take 10,000 IU or higher amounts per day. There is an increase risk of birth defects and osteoporosis with high intake of Vitamin A. For adults 2000 to 5000 IU is sufficient.

Vitamin C - in high doses can cause diarrhea and gastrointestinal problems.

Niacin - high doses can be toxic to the liver. Physicians may prescribe it as treatment for high cholesterol.

Selenium - this popular antioxidant does have an ugly side. Take too much and you can experience the toxic effects which include skin and nail changes, tooth decay, and nervous system problems.

Comfrey - works well for helping with wound healing as a poultice, or as tea to sooth the stomach. Ingestion of the herb itself can result in liver damage.

Echinacea - is a potent immune system stimulant. It should not be taken during pregnancy. If taken for more than 8 consecutive weeks, may be toxic to the liver.

Feverfew - should not be taken while pregnant or breastfeeding. MAY CAUSE MISCARRIAGE.

Kava - useful as a sleep aid, but it has been associated with liver damage.

Licorice - taking in high amounts, can cause headache, fatigue, high blood pressure, heart problems, and water rentention. Should not be taken by infants or children. Licorice is found in many brands of popular toothpaste and other personal care products.

Sassafras - marketed as a dietary supplement for treatment of skin diseases, as a stimulant, and many other uses. It is banned by the FDA as a food additive, since studies reported cancer in rats and mice.

Senna - sold as tea, capsules, tablets or syrup and promoted as a laxative. Long term use can result in dehydration due to excessive loss of potassium.

What we really need:

Let's keep it simple. A good multi vitamin/mineral supplement will help establish whatever is lacking in our food. Omega 3,6,9 is also helpful for a healthy heart along with coenzyme Q 10, which studies show is also good for the heart and possibly gum disease. Women also need a calcium (preferably in the citrate form) supplement with magnesium, zinc and vitamin D.

Any herbal supplements should be taken only if recommended by your physician.