Some Dietary Supplements Tied to Severe Outcomes in Youth
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Compared with vitamins, some dietary supplements increase the risk for severe medical events in youth, according to a study published online today in the Journal of Adolescent Health. Supplements sold for muscle building, weight loss, and energy were tied to about a threefold increase in risk for severe medical problems, including hospitalization and death.
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@kakali Dietary supplements are a big market in the United States — about 52% of Americans consume them, according to data quoted in the article. Despite their popularity, supplements are subject to very little safety regulation. The Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994 prohibits the FDA from screening supplements for safety and efficacy. As a result, the FDA relies on an honor system that defers to manufacturers to ensure the safety of dietary supplements.