Nutrition
Dietary Supplements 

 

Dietary supplements are products taken by mouth that contain a "dietary ingredient" such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and herbs or botanicals.

Dietary supplements come in many forms, including tablets,
capsules, powders, energy bars, and liquids.

 

Dietary supplements

healthy living apple  DID THIS NUTRITION WEB PAGE HELP YOU? external link 



Before taking a dietary supplement, remember:

  • Talk to a health care provider or your local Military Treatment Facility's Registered Dietitian.
  • Read the label to see if the product is safe.
  • The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not test or approve dietary supplements before they are marketed to the public. 
  • Many products on the market are dangerous to your health and physical activity may increase the risk.

For more information on dietary supplements, use the resources below.   

Government

Human Performance Research Center - OPSS: Operation Supplement Safety External Link

The Human Performance Research Center (HPRC) provides:

  • Research-backed information to help users make good decisions about supplements.

  • Alerts of recalls, market withdrawals, and safety bulletins, plus links to additional reliable information on supplements.

 OPSS Button

FDA 101: Dietary Supplements External Link

If you have questions about a particular supplement, call the FDA’s toll-free number at (888) INFO-FDA (463-6332).  Also, contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any adverse affects after taking a dietary supplement.  It is also recommended that you report the problem to FDA  

Guide to Herbs and Supplements: Looking for the Edge – Dietary Supplements External Link

Published by the Uniformed Services University Consortium for Health and Military Performance, this guide was developed to provide the warfighter a reputable source of information on herbs and supplements.

Non-Government

Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database External Link   

Many warfighters use supplements to improve their health and performance, but getting good information isn't always easy.  Check out resources from our partners at the Natural Medicines Comprehensive database. 

Supplements and Fluids - an interactive online training module (AKO) External Link

"Supplements and Fluids” is one of several Interactive self-development nutrition training modules available once you have completed the Global Assessment Tool.  Other topics include High Performance Nutrition, Nutrition in the Field, Losing Weight, Fueling the Military Family, and Encouraging Healthy Habits as a Leader.  This online training is part of the Comprehensive Soldier Fitness Program and designed to help you increase strength and resilience.  An AKO account is required to complete this training.