Let me first start off by sending my sincere condolences to the friends and family of Meegan Hefford. The loss of a loved one is an incomparable pain and one not to be taken lightly.

That being said, I've seen a lot of information circulating the internet surrounding her death—namely blaming her use of protein and other nutritional supplements as the primary cause. What few outlets are actually highlighting is the fact that she also suffered from Urea Cycle Disorder.

So what is this? A protein is digested and broken down in the body, waste ammonia is released into the body. The Urea Cycle is responsible for breaking it down and converting it into something less toxic, say urea or uric acid where it is then excreted from the body.

Someone with Urea Cycle Disorder that also supplements their diet with high amounts of protein won't be able to effectively convert all of that excess waste ammonia in their body into something more manageable, the results of which can sometimes be fatal.

That's it then, right? We need to stop blaming the supplements because it was this disorder and not the supplements.

Not quite.

It's certainly true that individuals with normally functioning urea cycles won't have a problem with a high protein diet, that doesn't mean it's okay to start slamming shakes and eating entire cows for dinner either.

Warning labels exist for a reason, and while protein supplements are for the most part benign and relatively safe to consume, other nutritional supplements require more care and awareness when being taken.

This also does not mean that supplements are the enemy.

Some tips for anyone currently taking supplements or considering starting their own regimen.

Research

Do your research. Understand everything you're considering putting into your body. When to take it, how to take it, how much to take, possibly dangerous combinations to worry about, side effects, expected results, etc.

It's also okay to seek help and advice from others.

Listen To Your Body

So you've done your research and started taking some new supplements. That's great! But the work doesn't end here. Say you've started feeling funny since taking something - is this an expected side effect? Did you take too much? Maybe it's worth stopping for a while to see if things improve.

In all aspects of health and fitness, consistency is key - but if that consistency means ignoring vital signs and symptoms your body is throwing at you, then it's not worth it. Pay attention - and if something feels wrong then stop.

Speak With A Professional

Doctor's are expensive, but they can provide vital insight into what is or isn't safe for your body. And in the case that you've taken my advice and listened to your body's signs that something's wrong, a health professional can help decipher that for you and point you in a safe direction.

It's easy to go overboard in the fitness world. I know first hand how tempting it is to invest thousands of dollars into shakes, pills, powders, and plans in hopes of achieving my goals. Moderation is key, and awareness is vital.

Stay healthy.