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 card No 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 more From the Human Performance Resource Center