Fitness and Health Science.org

Supplements: Information About Dietary, Food, and Exercise Related Supplements

• What is a dietary supplement?

   

• Should I check with my doctor or healthcare provider before using a supplement?

   

• What is a "new dietary ingredient" in a dietary supplement?

   

• What is FDA's role in regulating dietary supplements versus the manufacturer's responsibility for marketing them?

   

• When must a manufacturer or distributor notify FDA about a dietary supplement it intends to market in the U.S.?

   

• What information must the manufacturer disclose on the label of a dietary supplement?

   

• Must all ingredients be declared on the label of a dietary supplement?

   

• Are dietary supplement serving sizes standardized or are there restrictions on the amount of a nutrient that can be in one serving?

   

• Where can I get information about a specific dietary supplement?

   

• What are some tips on searching the Web for information on dietary supplements?

   

• Who has the responsibility for ensuring that a dietary supplement is safe?

   

• Do manufacturers or distributors of dietary supplements have to tell FDA or consumers what evidence they have about their product's safety or what evidence they have to back up the claims they are making for them?

   

• How can consumers inform themselves about safety and other issues related to dietary supplements?

   

• What is FDA's oversight responsibility for dietary supplements?

   

• Does FDA routinely analyze the content of dietary supplements?

   

• Is it legal to market a dietary supplement product as a treatment or cure for a specific disease or condition?

   

• Who validates claims and what kinds of claims can be made on dietary supplement labels?

   

• Why do some supplements have wording (a disclaimer) that says: "This statement has not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease"?

   

• How are advertisements for dietary supplements regulated?

   

• How do I, my health care provider, or any informed individual report a problem or illness caused by a dietary supplement to FDA?