Tom Miller, Iowa Attorney General, is asking consumers to take necessary precautions and check with their healthcare providers before taking any dietary supplements. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements and is not responsible for taking action against product manufacturers unless harm occurs. Sellers may make claims that their products have certain nutritional benefits to help lose weight, boost energy, build muscle mass or even slow the aging process, but Miller cautions, these should never replace a healthy, balanced diet. Some supplements may have adverse side effects when mixed with other over-the-counter or prescription medications, so always discuss what you are taking, including the amount with your provider or pharmacist. If you believe that a supplement is the cause of an adverse side effect, reaction or illness, you can report it to your healthcare provider or contact the FDA for a complaint form by calling 800-332-1088 or completing an online report at www.fda.gov.
