Are you often lured in by the latest health boosting supplements or maybe overwhelmed by the many choices out there? In a market flooded with promises of vitality and well-being, it’s crucial to navigate with caution. As a Registered Nutritional Therapist, I’ve learnt from experience both the pitfalls and benefits of supplementation. Here are five key points you should consider before parting with your money!
You Can’t Out-Supplement a Bad Diet
No matter how many health supplements you take, it can’t make up for a poor diet. As the name suggests supplements are exactly that – there to supplement a good diet. So optimising your diet should come first. No magic pill can replicate the benefits of a nourishing, balanced diet full of colourful veg and fruit, proteins and healthy fats.
More is Not Better
Despite what some supplement marketing will lead you to believe, bigger doses are not always better. I have seen certain companies selling their products on this basis, which shows a lack of understanding of how these supplements work. Supplement doses should ideally be based on the evidence available in research – where possible. Any reputable companies will have their eye on latest research, formulate their products accordingly and be able to advise customers.
Avoid Cheap Supermarket Multivitamins
While it can be very tempting to pick up a pot of multivitamins while you’re doing the weekly shop, in my experience, these often fall very short in quality and probably efficacy. They often contain less-effective forms of the nutrients and contain lots of unnecessary fillers and additives. In short, as with many products, you get what you pay for – they are very cheap for a reason. If you are on a tight budget it would be better to spend your money on good food or take a better quality supplement less often.
Invest in better quality supplements from reputable brands or consider consulting a profession who can give personalised recommendations on what is appropriate for you. Also consider, it’s not what you take but whether your body can absorb and use the nutrients effectively.
Your Friend’s Miracle Supplement May Not Be Yours
Many of us have heard the story of a miraculous improvement in health attributed to a single supplement or protocol. However, we all have unique health histories and individual needs, what works for one person may have little benefit for another. It is not usually wise to blindly follow trends, better to listen to your own body and seek guidance from qualified professionals who can assess and address your specific needs.
Consult a Qualified Professional
When it comes to supplementation, one size does definitely not fit all. Consulting a qualified professional, such as a Registered Nutrition Practitioner, will provide you with personalised advice relating to your specific health needs They can help you to pinpoint root causes of your symptoms, identify nutrient deficiencies, assess potential interactions with medications and advise you on evidence-based choices.
While this requires an initial investment of time and money, it can ultimately save you from the pitfalls of a trial and error approach.
So while supplements can seem a very attractive way to improve your health, they may not be the answer to your health problems. Consult a qualified professional for advice on the right diet for you and help with supplementing diet to suit your unique needs.