"I can buy it on Amazon (or Ebay, etc) for 1/2 the price!"
Many supplements you see on Amazon or on other sites can definitely provide significant health benefits, but concerns about their quality, potency, and safety persist. There are many risks you may not be aware of if you accidentally buy a poorly manufactured supplement.
Some of the main issues are contamination, incorrect labeling, and the presence of undeclared substances. According to a study by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), between 2007 and 2016, over 700 dietary supplements were found to contain prescription drugs or other undisclosed ingredients that could pose serious health risks to consumers. These adulterants included steroids, antidepressants, and sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra (FDA, 2018). I don’t know about you, but I was pretty shocked when I read this!
Also, if the manufacturer isn’t careful (or is cheap), supplements can be contaminated with heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and arsenic, which are harmful even at low levels, as well as pesticides or bacteria. A report by ConsumerLab, an independent testing company, noted that some protein powders contain excessive levels of lead and other heavy metals, which can pose serious health risks if consumed regularly. Also, a study published in the Journal of Plant Research noted that herbal supplements are particularly prone to such contamination if grown in polluted environments or processed using inadequate methods.
Another issue is potency. If I’m taking a certain dose of a vitamin, that’s what I want to be taking. The inconsistency in potency not only misleads consumers but can also pose health risks, especially for those requiring precise dosages for clinical reasons, such as individuals with vitamin deficiencies or those using supplements like vitamin D for bone health. On top of that, I don’t want to pay for something that may only have a small percentage of the active ingredient! Obviously, this variability can affect the supplement's effectiveness and safety. One review found that 46% of multivitamin supplements tested did not contain the listed amounts of nutrients, with some deviating from listed amounts by over 40%.
Improper manufacturing processes can introduce several other health risks:
Toxic Fillers and Binders: Some supplements contain harmful fillers and binders that can cause adverse reactions. For example, certain products have been found to use magnesium silicate, similar in composition to asbestos and potentially harmful if inhaled or ingested in large quantities. A notable study by the University of Guelph in 2013 tested the DNA of herbal products and found that many products on the market were mislabeled and contained fillers such as rice and soybean, not mentioned on the label, which could dilute the effectiveness of the intended herbal content. This not only misleads consumers but can also affect those with allergies or sensitivities to these undisclosed ingredients.
Allergens in Supplements: Cross-contamination with allergens like nuts, gluten, or dairy can occur during manufacturing. For individuals with severe allergies, this can lead to unexpected allergic reactions.
While many supplements are safe and beneficial, issues with quality, potency, and contamination highlight the need for more stringent regulatory oversight and better manufacturing practices. Consumers should remain informed about the supplements they use, including potential risks and the reputation of the manufacturers. Opting for products that have been independently tested and verified by reputable third-party organizations can also help ensure higher quality and safety.
Here at Vytazen, we take our jobs very seriously. Your health is our passion. We only sell supplements that are manufactured in FDA-Approved facilities. The facilities also must follow the Current Good Manufacturing Process, a certification that ensures the highest quality and safety. Plus, our products are tested by an independent lab as a final step to ensure you receive the highest quality supplements on the market.
