So. This is a good one. There has been a recent uptick in news stories in regard to supplements people purchase after seeing them online, and then find out they have actually poisoned themselves. So, what’s the deal?
Buying over the counter supplements…or whatever else.
I cannot begin to tell you my fear of seeing people with no credentials teaching exercise on TikTok. The poor form, the scary setups, and the likely ambulance calls. But, I have also seen a rise of supplements, vitamins, weight loss drugs, mushroom teas, etc, on Facebook reels. Even I have almost fallen prey to mushroom coffee – what harm could it do?
Ok, so what harm can it do?
Well, first of all, if you are buying supplements, vitamins, potions, or concoctions off the internet and they are not Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved, shame on you. There is a reason we constructed Federal agencies to police the safety and effectiveness of stuff like supplements and drugs.
When these products are not tested, not vetted, and imported from god-knows-where…we have no idea what is in what you are choosing to ingest. You could, literally, be taking poison. All to keep the seller’s bank account full. Your liver will take a hit, because it is your blood’s filter, but any other organ system could struggle or fail as well.
Ok, well what should I do if I want to take something?
TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR. For Pete’s sake. For Paul’s sake. For Pam’s sake. And, guess what, your doctor will make sure if what you are taking is medically necessary and safe. And, if they aren’t, run for the hills. But, you will need to make sure you bring with you what you are interested in taking so they know exactly what the TikTok influencer told you to take.
So, what happens if I take something and don’t get it approved?
My husband works in Liver Disorders as a Physician Assistant. I can get you his number pre-emptively until your liver, which is the filter for the human body, decides it has had enough of your shenanigans.
Hope this helps!
Heal today, transform tomorrow. Unlock your potential to heal, learn and grow. – Dr. Barb Wally, LLC
Note: These blog articles are not in exchange for a one on one Physical Therapy visit. Please contact me if you are interested in receiving a Physical Therapy visit!
*This content is original and copyright Dr Barb Wally, LLC*
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