Adverse effects

Cases of neonatal hypercalcaemia and congenital hypothyroidism involving food supplements for pregnant women have been reported to ANSES, under its national nutrivigilance scheme. These reports led the Agency to assess the risks associated with the consumption of food supplements containing vitamin D or iodine, intended for pregnant women. Having completed its expert appraisal, the Agency warns consumers against combining multiple sources of vitamins and minerals, in the absence of an identified need. It especially wishes to alert healthcare professionals of the importance of not combining sources of vitamins and minerals without regular biological monitoring. The Agency also reminds pregnant women that they should not consume food supplements without first seeking the advice of a healthcare professional.

The national nutrivigilance scheme has collected several reports of adverse effects likely to be associated with the consumption of food supplements for athletes seeking to develop muscle or reduce body fat. These reports, and the widespread consumption of these types of products in several sports disciplines, have led ANSES to draw attention to the potential health risks. Effects that are potentially serious, primarily cardiovascular (tachycardia, arrhythmia and stroke) and psychological (anxiety and mood disorders), have been observed. The Agency therefore advises against the use of these food supplements by people with cardiovascular risk factors or suffering from heart disease, impaired kidney or liver function, or neuropsychiatric disorders, or by children, adolescents, and pregnant or breastfeeding women. ANSES also recommends avoiding the consumption of food supplements containing caffeine before and during any sporting activity, as well as the concomitant consumption of several food supplements, or their combined consumption with medicinal products. ANSES reiterates the need to seek advice from a healthcare professional before taking food supplements.