Vitamins, minerals, herbs, and supplements Archive

Ashwagandha is an herbal remedy that has long been used in traditional Indian medicine. In recent years, it’s also become popular in the United States. Proponents say it can help with stress and promote better sleep. However, we have only limited scientific evidence about ashwagandha, and it may not be safe for people with certain medical conditions.

A high calcium result often turns up on a routine lab test. Possible causes range from overactive parathyroid glands to excess vitamin D.

Elevated blood iron can result from supplements, genetic disorders, liver disease, or transfusions. Learn what doctors check next and common ways to reduce it.

500 to 700 milligrams of calcium through diet and 800 to 1,000 of vitamin D as a supplement should be adequate to preserve bone density.

Taking a multivitamin does not reduce the chance of heart disease or mental decline, but it does reduce the risk of being diagnosed with cancer or developing cataracts.

Vitamin D supplements have been growing in popularity, but they're not always needed or taken in the correct doses.

Protein powder supplements can harbor health risks. They're recommended only for certain conditions, such as impaired appetite or wounds that are resistant to healing.

Monthly vitamin B₁₂ shots for pernicious anemia can be a hassle. Explore whether high‑dose vitamin B₁₂ pills or other non‑injection treatments might be an option.

Vitamin B₆ helps with the body's enzyme reactions, immune system health, brain chemicals, and more, but it doesn't get a lot of attention. The body can't synthesize it, so people need to get it from food, and a recent study found that a surprisingly high percentage of people may be deficient in vitamin B₆.

Calcium gets most of the credit for healthy bones, but another nutrient quietly controls how much you actually absorb. See why balance matters.