Have you considered taking supplements such as 5-HTP, SAM-e, or St. John's Wort to treat symptoms of depression or anxiety? If you have, you're not alone. In fact, studies suggest that as many as 60% of patients have tried supplements to treat their symptoms BEFORE seeking professional help.
Before taking any supplements, it's important educate yourself about potential risks and, if you're already taking prescribed medication, to consult with your doctor first. Remember, just because a supplement advertises itself as "natural" doesn't mean that it's "safe". Here are two reliable sources for information about supplements you may be considering:
This government-run site provides up-to-date information on supplements and other forms of alternative therapies such as yoga and accupunture. Check out the report "Using Dietary Supplements Wisely" for an excellent overview of safety considerations.
This subscription website provides independent testing of vitamins, supplements and nutrition products. If you've ever wondered about whether a supplement actually contains the ingredients listed on the label, this is the place to go.
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