"Dirty Dozen" In Dietary Supplements

Millions of Americans take dietary supplements, but some of what they are taking could be risky.

We are talking about some of the ingredients in popular over-the-counter supplements. Consumer Reports just issued a warning about what some are calling the "dirty dozen" ingredients you should avoid.

These ingredients have side effects that most consumers don't know about but that experts say can cause heart, liver and kidney problems. The issue, according to Consumer Reports, is that most consumers might not realize that manufacturers of these supplements don't have to show they are safe or effective before putting them on the shelf. The FDA, which does regulate the safety of drugs and medicines, doesn't have much authority over these types of supplements.

The ingredients being listed as ones you should avoid include aconite, bitter orange, chaparral, colloidal silver, coltsfoot, comfrey, country mallow, germanium, greater celandine, kava, lobelia and yohimbe.

If you are taking any of these supplements your best bet is have an honest, open talk with your doctor about how risky they are to your health. The same goes for any other supplement or herb you're taking, since they might have side effects you aren't aware of, or could even be interfering with medication you are already taking.