can create effects that are very different from consuming small amounts of the plant as food.
The NIH Office of Dietary Supplements specifically cautions that natural products can still cause harm and recommends discussing supplement use with healthcare professionals.
## How to Use Supplements More Safely
A few precautions can reduce unnecessary risk:
* Avoid megadoses unless specifically recommended medically.
* Check whether several supplements contain the same nutrient.
* Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all supplements you take.
* Be especially careful with products marketed for rapid weight loss, bodybuilding, or detoxification.
* Choose products from reputable manufacturers.
* Avoid using supplements as substitutes for prescribed treatment.
* If you have liver or kidney disease, discuss supplements before starting them.
* Stop using a supplement and seek medical advice if you develop concerning symptoms.
## The Bottom Line
Most vitamins and supplements are not inherently dangerous when used appropriately.
Problems are more likely when people take **very large
