And if you take dietary supplements on a regular basis, you won't be the only person doing so, because roughly half of people in the United States do so. Should you even bother? Absolutely, let me tell you why!
Many people often ask, “Eric, what dietary supplements are the best for me to take?” Over the years, I’ve seen patients bring in large amounts of unnecessary and often expensive dietary supplements to our clinic. This guide is for those just beginning their journey into building great health, focusing on what supplements to take—and more importantly, when to take them.
Before diving into dietary supplements, it’s important to get your diet right. There’s little point in taking supplements if you’re regularly indulging in fries, pizza, beer, wine, or soda.
The saying goes, “When diet is wrong, medicine is of no use. When diet is correct, medicine is of no need.”
This holds true for supplements as well. A diet rich in quality proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, along with the right basic beverages, can make a world of difference. Poor food choices consistently lead to poor health, and the evidence is all around.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates dietary supplements as foods, not medications. This means that while certain health benefits can be claimed on the label, supplements cannot legally claim to cure, treat, or prevent disease. However, some evidence suggests that specific supplements can improve health in various ways.
For instance, multivitamins, calcium, and vitamins B, C, and D are popular nutrient supplements. Calcium promotes bone health, while vitamin D aids in calcium absorption. Vitamins C and E act as antioxidants, protecting cells and keeping them healthy.
During pregnancy, women require iron, and breastfed babies need vitamin D. Folic acid is essential for all women of reproductive age, particularly in preventing certain birth defects.
Click on the links here to read more on our pages about Vitamin B, Vitamin C, Vitamin D and Folic Acid . Also Calcium and Antioxidants.
While many supplements have minimal side effects, it’s essential to be cautious. For example, vitamin K can interfere with blood thinners, and ginkgo can increase blood thinning. St. John’s wort, a herb used for depression, anxiety, and nerve pain, can hasten the breakdown of many medications, making them less effective.
It’s also important to note that a supplement labeled as “natural” doesn’t guarantee its safety. Some “natural” supplements, like comfrey and kava, have been known to cause liver damage.
Always consult with your doctor before taking any supplement, especially if you’re on medication, to understand potential interactions and correct dosages.
I’ve always advocated for limiting the number of dietary supplements our patients take. I firmly believe that most of the nutrition you need can be obtained from wholesome food, assuming you eat a wholesome diet. However, there are exceptions.
For an all-inclusive insurance policy, I recommend taking a high-quality multivitamin daily. Not just any multi, though—opt for a natural product, not one based on synthetic vitamins and minerals. High-quality multivitamins cost more but are worth the investment.
I also take and recommend an omega-3 supplement daily. It’s essential to choose a clean, fresh oil made from sustainably caught fish. Avoid krill oil, as it’s environmentally detrimental and not necessary. Stick to premium-quality concentrated DHA and EPA fish oil for the best results.
Vitamin D deficiencies are alarmingly common today, even in sunny countries like Australia and New Zealand. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in immune function and cancer prevention. A deficiency in this vital nutrient is linked to an increased risk of cancer and several chronic diseases. Make sure you’re getting enough vitamin D, either through safe sun exposure, diet, or supplementation.
The Bottom Line is, while supplements can play a role in maintaining health, they are no substitute for a well-balanced diet. Prioritize your diet first, then consider a few essential supplements, like a quality multivitamin, omega-3 fish oil, and vitamin D, to fill in any gaps. Remember, the key to great health starts with the basics.
Where do I buy n z formulations omega 3 plus? Can’t find.
Hi Lani, Thanks for your enquiry. We left this formulations with the folk at canxida.com a couple of years back. I’m unsure if it is still available or not. We’re working towards having another available soon. Kind regards, Tracee