Dietary Supplements
Whether you're visiting the drug store, grocery or natural food shop you'll likely find an aisle where there are jars and bottles of things for you to put in your body that are neither foods nor medicines. Ranging from vitamins and minerals to fiber and herbal remedies, these supplements are not regulated in the same way as either food or medicine. Some of them are backed by solid research, others are folk remedies or proprietary cures.
If your diet does not include enough of certain vitamins or minerals, a supplement may be a good idea. Natural treatment for conditions like constipation may be effective. But because these substances are unregulated, it is always a good idea to educate yourself about the products and to use common sense when taking them. This is even more true if you are pregnant or taking a medicine that may be affected by supplements.
Recently Answered
- Q Are there any special ways to store Bifidobacterium?
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Stacy Wiegman, PharmacyStore your Bifidobacterium away from heat, light and dampness. When Bifidobacterium has reached its expiration date, discard it properly. Never leave this supplement where children can reach it. In case of accidental swallowing, call poison... Full Answer
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- Q What does it mean if Bifidobacterium is rated possibly effective?
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Stacy Wiegman, Pharmacy"Possibly effective" is a rating on a scale of the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. This rating indicates that Bifidobacterium has been suggested in recognized scientific references as being helpful for certain conditions. In order to... Full Answer
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- Q What are signs that I might be allergic to Bifidobacterium?
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Stacy Wiegman, PharmacySome people may be allergic to Bifidobacterium. Signs of an allergic reaction include having chest pain or tightness in your chest, problems with breathing or developing itching or hives or a rash. Stop taking this supplement and get medical... Full Answer
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- Q Are there other names for Bifidobacterium?
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Stacy Wiegman, PharmacyBifidobacterium is known under a number of other names, such as bifidus, bifido, bifidum, probiotic (which can refer to other beneficial bacteria products) and several others. It is also included in some name brand products such as Activia... Full Answer
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- Q Does Bifidobacterium really work?
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Stacy Wiegman, PharmacyIn some cases Bifidobacterium really does seem to work. At least one research study in humans has shown that it is possibly effective in treating the following: colitis; irritable bowel syndrome; diarrhea and inflammation of the intestines in... Full Answer
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- Q Should I let my doctor know I am taking Bifidobacterium?
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Stacy Wiegman, PharmacyIt is always best to let your doctor know about any supplements you are taking even if they can be purchased without a prescription. It is possible that Bifidobacterium may interact with other medications you are taking. You should not take this... Full Answer
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- Q What is the best way to take Bifidobacterium?
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Stacy Wiegman, PharmacyThe best way to take Bifidobacterium depends on who is taking it and for what condition. Probably the easiest way to take Bifidobacterium is by eating it in a yogurt product such as Activia. However, if you do not like or cannot eat yogurt, this... Full Answer
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- Q How can I take Bifidobacterium?
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Stacy Wiegman, PharmacyBifidobacterium is available as a supplement to take in powder, pill or chewable form. The label will tell you how much you need to take for your condition as verified by research. Bifidobacterium is also available in some yogurt products such as... Full Answer
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- Q Does bifidobacterium interact with other medications?
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Stacy Wiegman, PharmacyBifidobacterium may interact with other medications, especially antibiotics. Talk with your doctor before using a supplement that contains bifidobacterium, if you are taking an antibiotic. Bifidobacterium may reduce the effectiveness of the... Full Answer
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- Q Who should not use Bifidobacterium?
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Stacy Wiegman, PharmacyAlthough Bifidobacterium is safe for most people to use, there are some individuals who should use it only on the advice of a doctor. Women who are pregnant or nursing, people with serious health conditions and those with a weak immune system... Full Answer
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