How do you know which additional remedies and additions can be worth enjoying on top of a balanced and healthy diet?
If you were to walk into any particular supplementation store, you would assume that without a vast array of the latest purchases, tablets, capsules and ointments, you’re somehow not doing it right. Of course, that’s what the marketing tries to tell you.
But the truth is, unless expressly told to supplement by a doctor, you may not need to use anything. The advice in this post is certainly not a prescription or direct advice for your own needs. But what if you wish to supplement a little? How do you know which additional remedies and additions can be worth enjoying on top of a balanced and healthy diet?
Well, of course, this is up to you. Most people are generally fine by taking a multivitamin if they wish to complete their intake, while fish oil tablets for joint and heart health or vitamin D as a healthy hormone can be smart additions. Not everyone needs them, but if you do, they’re generally considered safe.
But what about more specific supplementation? How can you determine if a particular product is worthwhile to you? Let’s consider that, below:
Is It Suitably Sourced & Sustainable?
Before even thinking about what the supplement promises, it’s important to look at where it comes from. There’s no point in taking something that isn’t ethically sourced or doesn’t follow strict guidelines for quality. For example, if you’re considering fish oil, make sure it comes from sustainably sourced fish.
You can do that by looking for products certified by organizations like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) to ensure you’re not contributing to overfishing or harming marine ecosystems by taking it. Make sure you do this especially if shopping online, because sometimes online stores don’t have the same vetting procedures as retail, but again, the same process applies there too.
What Desired Effect Are You Looking For?
You’re not silly for being influenced by flashy packaging or impressive claims (that is exactly what marketers pour money into trying to achieve), but what are you actually trying to do with this supplement?
Are you hoping to boost your energy? Maybe you want to improve your skin? Are you working out and want to build muscle on top of a gym routine you have going on? This way a supplement isn’t something you think you should have, but taken for a specific goal. Some might have melatonin to get their sleeping schedule back on track, for example.
Alternatively, if you want to support your gut health, maybe a probiotic can be a good option, especially one that isn’t in a high-sugar yogurt. Be certain to do your research and understand exactly what effect the supplement is designed to have, because then even relatively newer options, like CBD oil, can be a sure purchase. Don’t expect a supplement to fix everything though, it’s not a medicine, but can often help push you in the right direction.
Does This Supplement Clash With Anything?
If you’re on medication especially, it’s essential to be mindful of what medication you’re taking. For example, calcium can limit the proper absorption of antibiotics, and taking too much vitamin E can increase the risk of bleeding, especially if you’re on blood thinners, which can be dangerous.
Make sure to read labels carefully no matter what you take, and if you’re unsure, talk to your doctor. Be careful about advice you read online as well, some might suggest that there’s nothing to worry about, but that may not potentially be the case in your particular situation. It’s best not to risk and difficulties or health issues that you could avoid.
Sure, supplementation is generally benign in terms of its herbal presence, but remember that just because something is “natural” doesn’t mean it’s automatically safe for everyone.
Which Particular Products & Reviews Are You Looking At?
Of course, it’s not just what supplement you take but what product you buy that counts, because not all are equal. Look at user reviews, and see what’s in the ingredient list. A hyper-strength zinc supplement might sound like a good investment but it could offer dangerous levels of the stuff if you take too much. Moreover, a certain type of supplement may differ, such as magnesium glycinate, or citrate.
Some websites allow you to see how a product stacks up in terms of purity, label accuracy, and value for money. Look past the marketing no matter how fancy the label is, because that will help you find the best products worth trusting to begin with.
With this advice, we hope you can more easily avoid feeling obligated to supplement, and instead use what you need on a case by case basis, more informed than ever before.
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