Tulsa Doctor Urges Caution In Using Supplements

With the New Year, comes New Year's resolutions. Two of the most popular are getting fit and eating right. 

Many people also add supplements into the mix, but a recent CDC study estimates that dietary supplements are responsible for 23,000 emergency room visits a year nationwide.

Tyron Taylor was hoping for a mental boost when he tried a pre-workout supplement but instead got a plethora of negative side effects. 

"I don't think I'll try those again," he said. "I couldn't sleep; I had bad muscle cramps, crazy nightmares and dreams."  
 
Taylor recovered at home, but others have reported symptoms that landed them in the hospital. 

Young adults account for more than 25 percent of these visits - many reporting negative reactions to weight loss and energy supplements.

Dr. David Murr said the same can be said for the emergency rooms he works here in Tulsa.

"Typically, it's more of the energy-type supplements that we'll see some people have problems with," Dr. Murr said.

"They'll see an increase in their heart rate; they'll feel more anxious."

Dietary supplements can also have hidden ingredients because they're not regulated by the FDA the way prescription medications are. 

"The problem is that a lot of these things are marketed as natural," Murr said. "We think natural is great. Poison ivy is natural, but I wouldn't use it for anything." 

Avid exerciser Melinda Adwon believes it's best to just avoid supplements. She hits the gym without taking anything.

"If I didn't work out, I don't think I'd feel as good - no matter what I took," she said. 

If you do decided to take something,  do your homework.  There are credible websites that test supplements to make sure their ingredients match what is listed on their label. 

Also, talk to your doctor who can offer advice and check for medication interactions.