Supplements have become an increasingly common part of many people’s healthy lifestyles. The small tablets are capable of addressing a wide range of issues, from fatigue to immunity.

However, these products have come under a lot of attention in recent years. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning about a supplement whose negative effects could result in death.

While some supplements, such as vitamin D during the winter months, are essential, others, according to many experts, are a waste of money. They all seem to preach the same message: don’t take supplements unless you absolutely need them, such as if you’re vitamin deficient. What’s even worse, some supplements have been associated with very bad side effects, which is even worse.

Supplements, ranging from herbal remedies to vitamins, are now widely used by many people.

However, tests and experiments have shown the tiny nutrients’ dark side in the form of risky side effects.

Don’t be fooled by the small pills. They may resemble other prescription medications, but they are not regulated in the same way because they belong under the food category.

Caffeine tablets or powder is one supplement in particular that has been linked to serious negative effects.

Caffeine products, which are classified as stimulants, are typically used to boost alertness and energy when you’re feeling tired.

There are times when you need a little extra coffee to get you through the day, but if you want to be safe, stick with real coffee.

FDA said: “Pure and highly concentrated caffeine products present a significant public health threat and have contributed to at least two deaths in the United States.”

The following is a complete list of the side effects associated with energy boosters:

• Death
• Rapid or dangerously erratic heartbeat
• Seizures
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Stupor (long or deep state of unresponsiveness)
• Disorientation.

All of these can be signs of caffeine poisoning, according to the health department.

Pure and heavily concentrated caffeine supplements are far more “potent” than your average cup of coffee or tea, which is why they can cause these “serious” effects.

They go on to say that these dietary supplements are frequently purchased in bulk, with packaging containing thousands of servings.

This usually means that the consumer has to figure out the safe dose “from what can be toxic or even lethal” for them.

The FDA also advises that the boundary between a safe and toxic dose can be easily crossed.

This may make it difficult to measure the correct amount with your standard kitchen tools.

To put the numbers in perspective, a single teaspoon of pure powdered caffeine contains the same amount of caffeine as 28 cups of coffee.

A half cup of a liquid highly concentrated caffeine product, on the other hand, contains the caffeine equivalent of over 20 cups.

“These are toxic amounts that can have serious health consequences,” the FDA added.

If you have any major negative effects from caffeine supplements, you should seek medical attention.

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