From uses to limitations, here are the three most important things to know before trying a dietary supplement.

From Instagram ads to word of mouth, dietary supplements seem to be everywhere. But are these so-called “quick fixes” really worth all the hype?

We dug up all the dirt on dietary supplements, so you won’t have to.

1. A dietary supplement won’t fix everything.

Before you start taking a dietary supplement, it’s important to understand your goals.

If your goal is to get healthy, taking a dietary supplement might help – but it won’t be the whole solution. You’ll have the best results by pairing supplements with a healthy diet and plenty of exercise.

In particular, supplements can be a great option if you’re looking to bring additional nutrients into your diet. If you suffer from malnutrition or a vitamin deficiency, these just might be the answer.

2. All supplements are not alike.

From teas to gummies to capsules, dietary supplements come in a variety of different forms. And in many cases, each form has unique benefits.

Capsules are the most common – and one of the most effective – methods. They act fast and typically come without the taste you might find from a liquid or powder.

With a great flavor and unique texture, gummies tend to be more fun. But that flavor doesn’t come without a cost – these are often packed with sugar. And to keep the flavor intact, they rarely boast as many nutrients as your average supplement.

Popular among athletes, powdered supplements are convenient to pour into juice, smoothies, or even water. That leaves them with an easily customizable taste and eliminates any challenges swallowing.

And if none of those speak to you? With no shortage of enthusiasm for dietary supplements these days, there are plenty of other options out there.

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3. It’s always best to check with your doctor.

Whatever supplement you choose, it’s worth talking to your doctor first.

They can help you understand your individual needs and choose the supplement that will work best for you. And most importantly, they can let you know what side effects or drug interactions to expect.