They defined these supplements as products that contain a dietary ingredient intended to supplement the diet – some popular ones are products that promote the production of HGH, creatine and ephedra.
Ephedra is one such substance that has been banned by the FDA and other organizations (National Collegiate Athletics Association, the International Olympic Committee and the National Football League) have banned the use by their participants. Low doses of ephedrine can have medical benefits such as treating asthma, but high doses have other effects such as increased risks for heart attacks, strokes, psychosis and insomnia.
Generally, though, the FDA does not check out these substances unless there are complaints about potentially dangerous side effects. This means that anyone who uses these supplements are, in effect, testing them for the companies. Because there is no regulation, there is also not a listed recommended dose either. This could cause problems when it comes to people wondering if they are using enough to too much.
So, because dietary supplements have become so popular and because they can have unregulated claims, the federal government took action to decrease the amount of adverse health effects associated with dietary supplements. The reasoning behind this law is because they want to promote the safe use of effective dietary supplements to further maintain and improve the health of Americans.
To do this, the act adds an amendment that deals with the labeling of dietary supplements. Products can be labeled as dietary supplements if the fill the need of helping to solve nutrient deficiencies. The amendment also moves for more concise labeling of ingredients and claims. Sources:
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