Health Canada has seized an unauthorized health product from a store in Moose Jaw and is warning the public as it may pose serious health risks.

A bottle of 21st Century DHEA (Health Canada)

Seized from Alternate Root Organics, "21st Century DHEA" was taken off the shelf because of the controlled substance dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) labelled to be in the capsules.

Promoted to give "support for the immune system, mental well-being & energy levels,” DHEA can actually cause higher than normal levels of female and male hormones in the body which could increase the risk of hormone-related cancers, such as breast, prostate, and ovarian cancer. 

Potential side effects of consuming DHEA include changes in sperm production and fertility and serious cardiovascular disease. Those pregnant or breastfeeding or have a history of blood clotting disorders, liver disease, or abnormal heart rhythms should completely avoid DHEA.

Health Canada advises anyone that has been using "21st Century DHEA" to stop using the product and consult a health care professional if you have any concerns and to contact Health Canada if you have suffered any side effects.

Again, the product has been seized by Health Canada and the agency will continue to inform and protect consumers from unauthorized products.

If you are purchasing any health products and are unsure of the validity of it, you can look for Health Canada's eight-digit Drug Identification Number (DIN), a Homeopathic Medicine Number (DIN-HM) or a Natural Product Number (NPN) on the label.