Operation Supplement Safety A D o D-w ide E ducational Initiative

OPERATION SUPPLEMENT SAFETY

A DoD-Wide Educational Initiative

From the Human Performance Resource Center (HPRC)

Purpose

• Increase awareness among active-duty service members about dietary supplements

• Provide tools to be “smart” supplement users

Key Messages

• It’s ALWAYS better to use food because

• Choose wisely: Get the facts first! Know how to spot red flags Know what to look for on a label

Supplements are not as complete as food

Supplements can be more expensive than food

Supplements can be dangerous to health

Supplements are not FDA-tested or -approved before marketing

Is it safe?

• Evidence-based approach: Use OPSS High-Risk cardNo ingredients listed as “blends”, “proprietary blends,” or

“delivery systems”?All ingredients have DVs* less than 200%?No caffeine or caffeine limited to no more than 200 mg/serving/day? Is it third-party

certified/verified?

* DV = Daily Value, the recommended daily amount of a particular nutrient% is usually based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Does it work?

• Check Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database (NMCD)Visit hprc-online.org to get account and learn

• Ask yourself why you’re taking this product

• Talk to your provider/dietitian

• HPRC’s Operation Supplement Safety

OPSS Resources for Warfighters

OPSS “Ask the Expert” button

HPRC-online.org/opss

Where to learn moreFrom the Human Performance Resource Center