Navigating the Rise and Risks of Natural Supplement Use in Spain

Amid growing stress and health concerns, many Spaniards are turning to natural supplements like ashwagandha, magnesium, and melatonin to manage sleep and relaxation, often without consulting health professionals. Gabriel Pozuelo, a clinical psychologist, notes that over 30% of his patients use some form of supplementation, a trend that surged notably during the COVID-19 pandemic. Experts, however, caution against the common misconception that “natural” equals safe, pointing to possible side effects and dangerous drug interactions. Ignacio Calvo highlights how the contemporary culture of quick fixes can foster new dependencies on supplements seen as safer alternatives to medications.

Meanwhile, Marta León, an expert in women's hormonal health, draws attention to the importance of understanding collagen loss beginning around age 30, emphasizing that vitamin C is critical for producing collagen, which supports skin and connective tissues. León advocates a tailored nutritional approach for each decade of life, recommending high-quality proteins, antioxidants, and in later years, hydrolyzed collagen for joint and bone health. She stresses a lack of sufficient information among women regarding hormonal changes and their effects.

The surge in supplement use, often influenced by social media, underscores the need for professional guidance and better public education to ensure safe, effective health strategies. Both articles emphasize that while natural supplements can aid wellbeing, they should complement, not replace, holistic lifestyle habits and medical advice.