Supplements and your gut health – Mayo Clinic Health System

Multivitamins and mineral supplements are the most common type of dietary supplement used by adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The use of supplements increases with age.
While dietary supplements may seem popular, that does not mean they are right for you, given your health or medical history. Many supplement ingredients can interact with medications and allergies.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate dietary supplements in the same way as prescription and over-the-counter drugs. This means supplements have not been reviewed for safety or effectiveness before being sold.
Most people decide to take supplements to improve health, lose weight or treat a certain condition. Collagen, prebiotics and probiotics, turmeric and melatonin are among the most common supplements used. It’s important to consult with your health care team before taking a supplement.
Although multivitamin and mineral supplements are common for adults, it’s important to consider if a supplement has a nutritional benefit. Most nutrients can be obtained through good nutrition.
Your health care team can use blood tests to check if your vitamin levels are normal. If a deficiency is found, a supplement may be used briefly to normalize the level.
If you’re having symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain or elevated liver enzymes, review your medications and supplements with your health care team. If a supplement is not necessary, stopping its use for a period of time could determine if it is causing the symptoms. Working together with your health care team can ensure supplements do not harm your body.
New supplements are being marketed every day. Being cautious and talking to your health care team before taking a supplement can protect your health, and avoid unintentional side effects and damage to your body.
Amanda Yurick is a physician assistant in Gastroenterology and Hepatology in Mankato, Minnesota.

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