Thinking About Taking a Supplement? 
By Andrea Holwegner, Health Stand Nutrition Consulting Inc.
If you are considering taking a herbal or dietary supplement, here are some questions you should ask yourself. If you answer NO to any of these questions you should reconsider taking the supplement.
| Question | YES | NO |
| I am in a life stage that is safe to consider taking a supplement: (i.e. I am NOT pregnant, breast-feeding, or attempting to conceive a child and I am NOT an infant or child) or I have discussed with my physician/dietitian the safety of taking the supplement | ||
| My physician/dietitian is aware that I am thinking of taking this supplement. | ||
| I have realistic expectations about the supplement and realize it will not be a miraculous cure-all | ||
| I am purchasing a product that lists: · The scientific name and quantity of any botanical · The name and address of the manufacturer · A batch or lot number · The date of manufacture and the expiration date | ||
| I am purchasing the product from reliable producers that advertise quality assurance and standardized products | ||
| I have researched the scientific effects of the supplement from a reliable, non-biased source and believe it could be effective for me for my health and/or medical issue | ||
| I have researched the medical side effects of the supplement from a reliable, non-biased source and believe I could safely take the supplement | ||
| I do not take prescription medication or I have discussed with my pharmacist/physician/dietitian the effect of taking the supplement on my prescription medication and/or other supplements I may be taking | ||
| The financial costs of taking the supplement are reasonable for me | ||
| I am NOT an athlete that is tested for drugs and /or banned substances or I am an athlete that is confident there are no banned substances present and/or contaminated in my supplement |
About Andrea Holwegner
CEO, Registered Dietitian, Counseling Practice Director & Professional Speaker
Andrea the «Chocolate Loving Nutritionist» is founder and CEO of Health Stand Nutrition Consulting Inc. since 2000. She is an online nutrition course creator, professional speaker and regular guest in the media. Andrea is the recipient of an award by the Dietitians of Canada: The Speaking of Food & Healthy Living Award for Excellence in Consumer Education....Read more
