Supplements and Healthy Living

We live in a society that expects instant results.  Don’t ask me why, it still takes 9 months for a baby to mature, a few years to get through college, and it takes a while to work up to your dream job.  But still, we expect things to be instant.

Unfortunately, supplement manufactures and their marketing departments are all too ready to promise “instant” results.  Often times, people don’t know better and assume the products must be safe or they wouldn’t be allowed to sell them.

Realize that “supplements” are just that – supplements to what you are eating.  They are not “in place of,” they are “in addition to.”  They are designed to take up the slack.  For example, if you don’t eat enough meat, a protein drink would be a great supplement.  You need that extra protein but for whatever reason you are not getting it through your regular eating habits.  It is used to supplement what you are already doing, not as a main source of protein.

Most supplements, herbal remedies and items available at a health store are not required to go through the testing required of medication.  They don’t fall under the Food and Drug Administration and can pretty much claim what they want without any proof. I’m not saying they don’t work.  I’m saying don’t assume they are safe and non addictive.  Marijuana is natural and despite what others may say, study after study has proven it is addictive and long term use increases aggressive behavior. 

Most fat burners and weight loss supplements work when combined with good nutrition and an exercise program.  However, they are also loaded with caffeine and other addictive stimulants.  One of the more popular brands is equivalent to 40 cups of coffee in one dose.  The manufacture recommends taking it several times a day.  Yes it works, but it may not be safe for you especially if you have a medical history of heart issues.  If the same products were sold as a pharmaceutical drug you might be more informed about the risks associated with taking the pills.

Don’t believe what the bottle says.  If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.  There are no miracle drugs.  Things worth while take some time, despite what we may desire.