Food should always be the priority, but there are times when supplements can help on a number of levels.
In addition to vitamins and minerals, there are huge variety of supplements on offer, from digestive enzymes for IBS type symptoms, to turmeric, a powerful anti- inflammatory.
With such an array of choices and all the conflicting information surrounding supplements… choosing the right one can be quite a task.
There’s a number of criteria I apply. Here’s a few tips to get you started:
Choose the right product for your specific situation e.g., life stage and sex. If you’re looking for a multivitamin to support your through the menopause, select a specialised product for +40 plus women, not a generic supplement off the supermarket shelf.
Minimal additives: the cheaper the supplement the more fillers you’ll find which may upset more sensitive individuals. Opt for purer products free of unnecessary additives.
Are recent blood tests results available to guide you on how much of a vitamin or mineral to take e.g. vitamin D, B12 and iron? Be informed, rather than stabbing in the dark.
Which nutrient form is the most absorbable? e.g. For magnesium the oxide form is the least absorbable, especially compared to citrate and bisglycinate.
What's the recommended dose for the symptom you are trying to resolve? Going by the labels on the bottle isn't always going to work. Team up with a practitioner to get specific advise on dosing.
Question how pure and fresh your fish oil is. It’s also important to check the strength of both EPA & DHA. Go to the IFOS (International Fish Oil Standards) website for more info.
If appropriate, check for allergens such as gluten, soy and milk.
Always talk to your healthcare professional before starting a supplement and ask about possible contraindications, if you are taking medication.