The Safety of Vitamin E Oil in Pregnancy
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that supports good health during pregnancy. But unless directed by your doctor, you should skip a vitamin E supplement.
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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.
Side Effects of Turmeric Capsules
Turmeric, which contains an active compound called curcumin, is a type of spice derived from the Curcuma longa shrub, native to India, Africa and regions of Asia. This golden spice is traditionally used as flavoring for food and dye for fabric.
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Side Effects of Fish Oil in Diabetes
Fish oil, a supplement rich in omega-3 fatty acids frequently touted for its protective effects on the heart, isn't right for everyone. In fact, fish oil may cause negative side effects particularly when used by people with diabetes -- a condition characterized by unusually high blood sugar levels.
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Lysine Supplement Benefits
Lysine is a type of amino acid your body needs to maintain proper growth and energy production. Unfortunately, your body can't generate lysine by itself. Instead, you need to consume lysine-rich foods, such as meat, fish or nuts, or supplements to ensure your body receives enough lysine each day.
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Lysine Overdose Symptoms
If you have oral or genital herpes, your doctor may recommend treatment with a lysine supplement. Though additional research is necessary, lysine may help reduce the replication of the herpes virus in your body, which may help reduce outbreak symptoms.
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Side Effects of Kelp Tablets
Kelp is a nutrient-rich vegetable, commonly called seaweed, found in the ocean along the coastline. Treatment with kelp tablets may be beneficial if you have iodine deficiency, digestive disorders or joint and bone problems.
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Side Effects of Mangosteen Extract
Native to Southeast Asia, the Garcinia mangostana or mangosteen plant produces fruit that may yield health benefits when used medicinally. Extract from the mangosteen fruit has been used traditionally to alleviate symptoms associated with diarrhea and skin infections.
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Side Effects of Chicory Root Extract
Derived from the root of the Cichorium intybus plant, chicory root extract may impart health benefits when used as a medicinal treatment. Historically, chicory root has been used as a sedative, anti-inflammatory and digestive aid.
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How Much Spirulina Should I Consume?
Spirulina is the most commonly used type of blue-green algae, a nutrient-rich aquatic plant. Health supplements containing spirulina are purported to boost immune function, increase protein intake and protect against liver problems.
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How Much Turmeric to Take?
Turmeric is a plant most commonly used as a flavorful spice in Indian cuisine. When used medicinally, the root and stem of the Curcuma longa plant may help reduce inflammation and improve digestion. The amount of turmeric you can take depends on a variety of factors, including your age and health status.
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Who Should Not Take Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha is a medicinal supplement derived from the Withania somniferum plant, a member of the pepper family commonly found in Africa and India. Ashwagandha contains a class compounds called withanolides, which may help reduce stress and inflammation while boosting immune system activity in the body.
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Safety of Licorice Root During Pregnancy
If you are pregnant, you should not use licorice root, despite its purported medicinal properties. None of these properties are proven, and licorice is potentially damaging to both mother and developing fetus. In addition, licorice root may cause health problems even if you are not pregnant.
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How Much Panax Ginseng Is Safe?
Panax ginseng, or Asian ginseng, is a commonly used herbal supplement purported to boost immune system function, regulate blood sugar levels and reduce erectile dysfunction symptoms, among other things.
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How Much Fish Oil Can My 5 Year Old Take?
Fish oil is a popular supplement that contains high levels of two omega-3 fatty acids: DHA, or docosahexaenoic acid, and EPA, or eicosapentaenoic acid. Though treatment with fish oil is usually associated with heart disease prevention in adults, children may also benefit from taking fish oil.
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Dosage of Bitter Melon for Diabetes
Bitter melon, also known as balsam pear or kerela, is a plant widely cultivated in Asia, Africa and South America. The fruit, seeds, leaves and roots have long been used in traditional remedies, including some for diabetes.
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Dosage of Fenugreek
Fenugreek is both a spice and a medicinal supplement commonly used in regions of the Middle East, Egypt and India. As a supplement, fenugreek has been used historically to treat stomach problems, bronchitis, arthritis and constipation. Fenugreek may also improve breast milk production in lactating women.
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Interactions With Iron Supplements
For people who struggle with anemia -- a condition characterized by low red blood cell levels -- iron supplements can help alleviate the severe fatigue, weakness and breathing difficulties associated with this condition.
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Dosage of Valerian Root to Help Sleep
Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep through the night is a problem that can severely affect your ability to function normally during the day. If you experience recurrent sleep problems, talk with your medical provider about using a natural herb called valerian root to help you sleep.
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What Is a Safe Dosage of Biotin?
Your body requires small amounts of biotin -- also called vitamin H -- to convert the food you consume into energy. Biotin also supports the healthy growth of your nails and hair. If you're uncertain how much biotin you need each day, seek additional guidance from your medical provider.
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Kelp Overdose Symptoms
Kelp is an iodine-rich sea plant that is used as both a food and medicinal supplement. Taking more than 2,000 mcg of kelp per day may lead to the development of overdose signs and symptoms.
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