Supplements can give your body extra vitamins and minerals when you’re deficient. However, they’re no substitute for a balanced diet of healthy foods.

Dietary ustservizibs come in many forms, including tablets, capsules, soft gels, bars, gummies and liquids. They can contain multivitamins, single-ingredient vitamins like vitamin C and D, minerals (such as calcium and magnesium), herbs or botanicals, amino acids, or live microbials.

Many people take supplements for specific health goals or to address a particular issue. For example, people with age-related macular degeneration may take a combination of vitamins C and E, zinc, copper, lutein and zeaxanthin to slow vision loss. Or, some people may take calcium and vitamin D to support bone health. Others use supplements to help ward off chronic inflammation, which has been linked to heart disease, cancer, and other health problems.

Balancing Act: How Supplements Can Fill the Gaps in Your Nutritional Intake

It’s important to talk with your doctor or dietitian before taking any dietary supplements. They can tell you which ones are safe and appropriate for your situation, as well as whether any might interact with your medications. It’s also a good idea to purchase your supplements from reputable companies, so you know they’re made under the FDA’s current Good Manufacturing Practice and labeling regulations.

Taking more of certain nutrients than your body needs can cause harmful side effects. For instance, too much iron can cause nausea and liver damage. And large doses of some vitamins, such as vitamin C and folic acid, can interfere with some types of birth control and antidepressants.