For years, dietary supplements have been marketed as an easy solution to improve health, fill nutritional gaps, and enhance overall well-being. However, a recent investigation has raised serious concerns about the safety of these products, including those marketed as “natural.” While the benefits of supplements are undeniable, the dangers associated with their overconsumption or misuse cannot be ignored.
The risks of popular supplements
On March 24, 2025, the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health Safety (ANSES) issued a severe warning regarding the increasing consumption of dietary supplements, including those that seem harmless at first glance. These products, available in the form of capsules, gummies, powders, or even liquid ampoules, are much more dangerous than most people realize. Irène Margaritis, Deputy Director for Risk Assessment at ANSES, emphasized that while the idea of “natural” supplements is appealing, it does not necessarily mean they are safe.
This issue is further complicated by the rising popularity of trendy supplements like gummy vitamins, which have become popular for both adults and children. Although they may look like candy, they can easily be consumed in excess, leading to serious health risks, especially for children who may unknowingly overdose on these sweet, colorful pills.
Toxic ingredients in supplements
The dangers of supplements extend well beyond occasional overdoses. According to Fanny Huret, who leads the Nutrivigilance program at ANSES, supplements can be classified into four main categories of concern: intrinsic toxicity, abuse, drug interactions, and adulteration.
An example is Garcinia cambogia, a popular weight loss supplement, which has been linked to fatal health risks. A few years ago, ANSES also highlighted the dangers of certain hair growth gummies that were linked to severe liver damage. These are just a few of the troubling incidents that underscore the need for stricter regulation and increased awareness of the potential risks that these supplements can pose.
Beware of dangerous drug interactions
Another alarming concern is the drug interactions that can occur when supplements are taken alongside prescription medications. For example, ANSES reported a case in 2024 of hallucinations caused by a supplement containing melatonin and California poppy, both of which interact with multiple medications. Some combinations of vitamins, minerals, and trace elements have been found to interfere with treatments for conditions such as HIV, reducing the effectiveness of crucial therapies.
The Wild West of online supplement sales
The ease of purchasing supplements online adds another layer of danger. Many of these products, particularly those sold by websites hosted outside the European Union, may contain fraudulent substances that endanger users’ health. For example, several products sold by the Trex brand, banned since April 2023, contained dangerous ingredients such as a weight loss medication banned in 2010, as well as sildenafil—the active ingredient in Viagra—which can cause side effects such as headaches, digestive issues, and flushing.
Are pharmacies a safe option?
While purchasing supplements in pharmacies may seem like a safer choice, the reality is more complex. Pharmacists, like any other retailer, have a financial interest in promoting certain products over others, potentially guiding consumers toward supplements that may not be the most suitable for their needs. This profit-driven approach can sometimes jeopardize health. As Aymeric Dopter, head of the nutritional risk assessment unit at ANSES, points out, the “Wild West” nature of supplement consumption is fueled by consumer freedom, which can lead to harmful consequences when products are misused.
A healthier alternative: fresh fruits instead of supplements
Ultimately, the safest and most effective approach to maintaining good health is to focus on a balanced diet rather than relying on supplements. Even the most common vitamins can have serious side effects if taken in excess. Take vitamin C, for example: it can be excreted in urine, but excessive amounts can lead to kidney stones. Instead of turning to vitamin C supplements, consider increasing your intake of fresh fruits for a more natural and safe source of essential nutrients.
Before taking a supplement, it is always wise to consult a healthcare professional to ensure it is necessary and safe. The next time you consider adding a new supplement to your routine, take a moment to reflect on the potential risks and explore healthier and more sustainable options.
Naturally curious, Jules Nova is a blogger who writes from the heart. He enjoys diving into topics that challenge, inspire wonder, or provoke thought. His writing blends personal insights, culture, life tips, and gentle poetic touches.
