Health expert warns of risks associated with dietary supplements

María José Alonso, a health sciences professor at the Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC), has issued a warning regarding the consumption of dietary supplements. She emphasizes that being ‘natural’ or available without a prescription does not guarantee a product is harmless.

Alonso highlights several risks, including the danger of using supplements to replace a balanced diet, which can lead to nutritional imbalances. She also warns against self-prescribing nutrients like iron or vitamin D to treat symptoms such as fatigue or hair loss without professional medical assessment.

Furthermore, combining different supplements can lead to accidental overconsumption of specific vitamins or minerals. Excessive intake, particularly of fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, and K, can cause toxicity in the liver and kidneys. The expert also notes that improper administration—such as incorrect timing or dosage—can significantly affect absorption and tolerance.