They could be doing more harm than good.
A viral TikTok video by Amina Khan, a UK-based pharmacist known online as @aminathepharmacist, has ignited a discussion around the safety and necessity of dietary supplements. In the widely circulated clip, which has attracted over 1.5 million views, Khan outlines three types of supplements she personally avoids and advises others to reconsider. Her recommendations challenge common supplement habits and highlight the potential health risks associated with overuse or misuse.
Khan first cautions against gummy vitamins, pointing out that they often contain high levels of sugar and filler ingredients. She notes that these products are sometimes consumed in excess, similar to candy, which can lead to serious health problems such as vitamin toxicity. Overconsumption, particularly of fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin A, or minerals like iron, can cause issues ranging from nausea to organ damage. Digestive disturbances are also a common side effect.
She then turns her attention to general multivitamins, suggesting that they offer little value to most healthy individuals. Many contain a wide array of nutrients in quantities too small to have a significant impact. Khan argues that people who maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables likely already get sufficient nutrients and don’t benefit from such broad-spectrum supplements. However, in certain cases—such as pregnancy, aging, or restrictive diets—a multivitamin might still be appropriate, depending on individual needs and under medical advice.
Lastly, Khan questions the effectiveness of supplements marketed for hair, skin, and nail health. These products often contain biotin, collagen, and keratin but typically lack sufficient amounts to produce real results. In addition, high doses of biotin can interfere with important medical tests, potentially leading to misleading results related to thyroid and heart conditions. Collagen supplements have also raised concerns about contamination with heavy metals, as some studies have revealed.
Khan’s insights reflect broader concerns in the medical community regarding supplement regulation and safety. In the United States, dietary supplements are not subject to the same rigorous oversight as prescription medications, meaning product quality can vary. Health experts recommend confirming nutrient deficiencies through blood tests and seeking professional guidance before starting any supplement regimen.
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