Don't inadvertantly double-dose with meds and supplements

When it comes to health and wellness products, everything seems to fall into one of three categories: 1 - Pharmaceuticals; 2 - Nutritional Supplements; and 3 - Snake Oils. Granted, an argument can be made that these three groups can, at least in some instances, overlap. But, for the most part, a demarcation does exist.

Still, it is not entirely uncommon for someone to simultaneously take products that fall into these different categories. While this may not cause any immediate harm in some cases, in others it may. A good example can be found in aspirin and the popular supplement Ginko Biloba.

Because many nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs -- such as aspirin -- have blood-thinning properties, taking them along with Ginko can potentially lead to intestinal bleeding. Why? Because Ginko Biloba also produces a similar blood-thinning effect. When taken together, serious health ramifications may arise.

This is why it's very important to always check with your doctor before taking any medications or supplements. As for snake oils, I think avoiding them altogether is probably your best bet.