Supplements Guide: Side Effects & Best Multivitamins

Vitamins and supplements like melatonin and fish oil offer health benefits but can cause side effects if misused. Learn about the impact of saw palmetto on blood pressure and find the best multivitamins for young women and adults over 50.

Dessicant, silica gel

The Dangers & Risks of Taking Silica

Most silica supplements are made with horsetail, though some contain silicon dioxide, which is found naturally in sand, Horsetail contains silicon, which forms into silica as the plant dries.

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Ground Turmeric

Turmeric and Sciatica

Sciatica pain is most often caused by a herniated disc that presses on the sciatic nerve, leading to inflammation, tenderness and pain.

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Fresh turmeric

Side Effects of the Curcumin in Turmeric

Turmeric is a spice often used in Asian dishes, and the curcumin in the spice is what's made turmeric useful as an herbal supplement. Curcumin is an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties.

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pregnant mother drink water

What Are the Side Effects of Prenatal Vitamins?

A growing baby requires a lot of nutrients that most moms-to-be don't get through their diets alone. Prenatal vitamins ensure that you and your baby are getting the vitamins, minerals and nutrients you need so you can stay healthy and your baby can develop properly.

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Ginger root

Ginger Benefits & Side Effects

Ginger has been used as a medicinal herb for over 2,000 years, particularly in Asia, India and Arabic countries, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Ginger is available in capsules and tinctures, but you can also use fresh or powdered ginger in cooking or use the fresh root to make a tea.

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Pregnant woman uses vitamin tablets

Prenatal Vitamins Irritate My Stomach and Cause Gas & Bloating

Taking a prenatal vitamin when you're expecting helps ensure that you and your baby are getting all of the vitamins and minerals you both need to stay healthy. Some people do experience side effects, including upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea and gas, when taking prenatal vitamins, but these can usually be minimized.

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Mid-adult woman wrapped in towel on beach

What Is 5-HTP & How Long Does It Take to Work?

When you eat foods that contain the amino acid tryptophan, your body uses some of it to make 5-hydroxytryptophan, or 5-HTP, a chemical that's also available in supplement form. 5-HTP converts into serotonin, an important neurotransmitter in the brain.

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Smiling Woman With Pills and Glass of Water

The Effect of Vitamin Supplements on Urine

Like many foods and medications, vitamin supplements can change the characteristics of your urine. Most urinary changes, including those caused by vitamins, aren't cause for concern.

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Pills

Can Men Take Prenatal Vitamins?

While prenatal vitamins are designed for pregnant women and those trying to conceive, the supplements contain important vitamins and nutrients that may be helpful to some men.

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