There’s a growing trend toward using fitness supplements to help boost energy and overall health. The number of products to choose from is also growing at record speeds, and sometimes it can be challenging to know which supplements are best for you. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when making your choice.

Look at the ingredient list. Try to choose supplements that are made from natural ingredients and whole-food sources. This will help you get the nutrition you want plus the cofactors you need to get the most from your supplements.

Determine whether the product is fast-acting and short-lasting, or if it gives a steady energy boost over time. It’s healthier to choose supplements that offer a steady boost of energy over time rather than the short-lasting products that are available. The fast-acting, short-lasting type of supplement causes your body to have a huge rush of energy followed by a crash that can leave you exhausted and unable to function effectively. This creates an unhealthy cycle, especially when these products are used on a regular basis. Supplements that offer steady energy over time don’t create this cycle, and are safer, especially with long-term use.

Whenever you choose to use any dietary supplements, remember that it is important to only take them as directed. Even though it can be tempting at times to take extra large doses of supplements to boost their effects, this can have unhealthy side-effects and shouldn’t be done.

Also keep an eye on the expiration dates because many herbs and natural ingredients can lose potency over time, or become more potent as they age.

Before mixing supplements with other medications, be sure to talk to your doctor first to make sure that it is safe to do so.