Dietary supplements that are safe to take, which to avoid: experts - Insider

Some dietitians recommend people speak to a clinician before taking any nutritional supplements because overuse can lead to serious health complications.

Nutrition experts previously told Insider to talk to a doctor about deficiencies before taking supplements. .

For instance, Americans spend millions each year on high-dose vitamin C supplements even though only about 6% of Americans are deficient in the nutrient and studies show taking vitamin C supplements won't prevent a cold. .

Sports nutritionists previously told Insider that creatine supplements can help build muscle.

Research suggests zinc supplements may slightly reduce the length or symptoms of a cold when taken early, but Mayo Clinic still recommends consulting a doctor as too much of the mineral can damage the nervous system

A cardiologist who has seen a rise in heart problems stemming from herbal remedies told Insider she would never recommend a person take supplements without consulting a doctor