Wisdom Takes Time

While reading, you may encounter some words or terms, you may not be familiar with. You may already know the meaning of some of them, but it doesn't hurt to refresh your memory.
Here is a list of the most commonly used terms and their explanation:

Clinical trials: Human studies.
Cytokines: Chemicals produced by the body that trigger the inflammatory process, for example, C-reactive protein, interleukins, tumor necrosis factor (TNF).
DHA: Docosahexaenoic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid, found in fish oil.
EPA: Eicosapentaenoic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid, found in fish oil.
mcg: Microgram: a unit of measurement, 1/1000 of a milligram.
mg: Milligram: a unit of measurement, 1/1000 of a gram.
NSAIDs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Since we are becoming much more conscious about our health, our food, exercise, activities and medications, we tend to be a bit too quick and too drastic, by grabbing anything of the shelves that we may think would be beneficial. Resist the temptation and look before you leap.

You may have heard great testimonies of others, who have used a vitamin or supplement. Keep in mind, what works for them does not necessarily mean it will work for you. There are a lot of things to take into consideration, before supplementing.

"The claims about what supplements are supposed to do for you certainly may tempt you to try one, two or more. But practice safety first. Trying a supplement shouldn't be a decision you make on a whim, while you're browsing through products on a shelf. Learn all you can about products before you risk your money or your health. To be a savvy consumer and make the right choice, follow these seven tips:

- Be wary of unrealistic claims, such as the product will "cure" or "prevent" arthritis. It is illegal for supplements to make such claims.
- Talk to your doctor about a supplement and whether it would be safe to try.
- Do not stop taking your prescription medications unless directed by your doctor.
- Find out if the supplement will interact with other medications or other supplements you are taking.
- Determine if potential side effects outweigh the potential benefit.
- Shop around for reputable brands.
- Know how much to take and how often to take it.
~Arthritis Today, Arthritis Foundation."

Don't react on a feeling. It may be a false feeling of obligation, or an invalid feeling. Don't let yourself be pushed into using a product, because of the convincing advertisements. Whatever someone is trying to convince you of, it may not be for the best. Take your time to read up on it, learn, and study.

It is always best, not to blindly follow the herd. Just because the majority of the people may do something, still does not mean it is the route to go. Even when they are leaning hard on you and try to push you in a certain direction, ward off the "peer" pressure. There is absolutely nothing wrong in taking a time out to think, but absolutely everything wrong with walking right into temptation's claws!

1 Corinthians 10:13
No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.