Unlocking Wellness: A Comprehensive Guide to Supplements
I heard from many of you that you’d like me to elaborate more on supplements — what supplements I take and what to look out for when choosing your own.
Honestly, our bodies do best getting our nutrients from whole foods but the truth is, most of us aren’t getting all the nutrients we need from food alone.
Enter in - the wide world of supplements. There are so many brands and offerings out there, I know it can be overwhelming. Although supplements are overseen by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Federal Trade Commission (FTC), there are a lot of contaminants and unhealthy ingredients that sneak their way in.
I’d like to share the real truth basics on ingredients and quality to help you to make a more confident and informed decision about your supplements and whether you choose to incorporate them.
1. Ingredient Transparency:
When choosing supplements, always opt for those with clear and transparent ingredient labels. You should be able to easily identify and understand the listed ingredients without any vague terminology or hidden additives.
2. Quality Standards:
Look for supplements that adhere to high-quality manufacturing standards, such as Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). These standards ensure that the products are produced in a clean, safe, and controlled environment. Still unsure? I recommend cleanlabelproject.org or the app Think Dirty to look up the quality of the brand/ingredients.
3. Third-Party Testing:
Seek out supplements that have undergone third-party testing by reputable organizations. This independent verification ensures that the product's ingredients match what is stated on the label and that they meet quality and safety standards. A helpful website is www.nsf.org. NSF is the only independent, third-party testing organization that offers true testing of dietary supplements.
4. Source of Ingredients:
Consider the source of the supplement's ingredients. Quality supplements often use premium sources and may even specify the region or country of origin.
5. Do Your Best to Avoid Fillers, Additives, Added Sugars, Artificial Sweeteners and Artificial Flavors:
Look under “Other Ingredients” and be cautious of supplements that contain unnecessary fillers and preservatives (like hydrogenated oils, gums, synthetic colors), artificial additives (magnesium stearate and polyethylene glycol), artificial sweeteners (sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame), added sugars (glucose, sucrose, fructose, corn syrup), and other artificial flavors.
6. Dosage and Potency:
Ensure that the supplement provides the appropriate dosage and potency for your specific needs. Consult with a healthcare professional if you are uncertain about the right dose for you. For example with probiotics — a good rule of thumb is to look for a brand containing at least 50 CFUs (colony-forming units).
7. Research and Reviews:
Before purchasing a supplement, conduct research and read customer reviews. Hearing about others' experiences can provide valuable insights into the product's effectiveness and quality.
Remember that everyone's dietary needs and preferences are unique, so it's crucial to consult with your healthcare provider to determine which supplements, if any, are right for you.
I’ve had many people ask me what I take and I’m always happy to share (these are NOT affiliate links):
Garden of Life Raw Probiotics for Women
Integrative Therapeutics Pure Omega HP
Garden of Life Vitamin Code Raw D3
Taking a proactive approach to selecting supplements can contribute significantly to your overall health and well-being. If you have any questions or need further assistance in choosing the right supplements, please don't hesitate to reach out. I’m here to support your journey to better health.
Your Health Coach,
Rhianne :)