Reading on the web. Open in the Thier app for the interactive version, progress tracking, and XP.

Open

Supplement Red Flags

4-minute read 25 XP in app 6 cards

When supplements do harm

Supplements are unregulated in most countries. Contamination, mislabeling, and dangerous dosing are common. More is not better — some supplements are actively harmful.

Try in app

True or False

Antioxidant supplements extend lifespan.

This step is interactive — open the Thier app to try it.

Try in app

Supplement red flags

Tap each warning sign to learn why it matters.

This step is interactive — open the Thier app to try it.

Fact

Specific supplements that have HARMED in trials

Beta-carotene (high-dose) increased lung-cancer risk in smokers (CARET, ATBC trials — both stopped early). Vitamin E (>400 IU/d) raised all-cause mortality (Miller 2005 meta-analysis). Folic acid (high-dose) accelerated some cancer growth. Calcium >1500 mg/d linked to vascular calcification. The pattern: high-dose isolated antioxidants and minerals consistently disappoint or harm. Food forms remain protective.

Try in app

Drug-supplement interactions

Tap each — common combos that genuinely matter.

This step is interactive — open the Thier app to try it.

Takeaway

Key Takeaway

Buy third-party tested supplements (NSF, USP, Informed Sport). Avoid proprietary blends. Test your blood levels before supplementing. Food first, always.

Practice this lesson in Thier More Fasting & Supplements lessons Discuss in community

Keep going

Library Browse all 24 tracks Sleep · Nutrition · Movement · Peptides Free tool Calculate your bio age 30 seconds · no signup Community See what people are practicing Live posts on longevity, fitness, brain health