There is no question that supplements can have a powerful effect on our health. Key word, can.
In order for supplements to be as effective as they are touted to be, the key is finding the right compounds at the right dosages for the right conditions. No two patients are exactly alike, and what works for one person may not work for the other. It is so important to have a personalized approach towards supplements, and recommend them based on the biochemical individuality of each person.
When used properly, supplements can have the ability to correct deficiencies and improve weakened and dysfunctional systems. As cells begin to receive the proper nutrients they need, they may even begin to look different, literally changing our bodies and improving our health.
Testing is key
Something that practitioners should consider when they are recommending supplements to their patients is that it is not as simple as picking up a few bottles from the local health food store. We need to consider the quality of the supplement. Where is it sourced from? Does it contain GMOs? How absorbable is the form? What kind of testing has been done to prove the quality of the ingredient? Another important consideration is the serving size/ dosage.
Anyone can pick up a supplement bottle from the store, but is this dosage appropriate for your patients’ needs?
Why some supplements don’t seem to work
Have you ever heard of the expression, “supplements are just expensive urine”? Commonly, studies done on a large group of people find that supplements do not work or have little benefit. These types of studies often fail to address biochemical individuality. Supplements are given to a large group of people, at the exact same doses, whether that individual actually needs the supplement or not. Often times, the study participants actually need much larger doses to see any effect or benefit.
In order for us to accurately research supplement efficiency, we need to consider measuring the individuals levels comprehensively, take a deep dive into their deficiencies, and redesign the study accordingly.
Better together
A single ingredient often fails when used in isolation. For example, vitamin C helps with the absorption of iron; same goes for black pepper and turmeric. Natural compounds work in unison with other compounds to synergistically correct and activate pathways that have been dysfunctional. A strong supplement formula contains multiple ingredients that all contribute to optimal health of the individual.
The use of supplements are beneficial, powerful and an integral part of a comprehensive plan, but it’s important to note that is best guided by a physician.
Increased patient compliance
Practitioners that have been working with VitaminLab, have seen an increase to their patient compliance rates through offering a single formula to their patients. Offering a single formula instead of different formulas from different bottles and manufacturers, enhances a patient’s adherence and tolerability to the prescription. This also reduces confusion on the patients’ end, as it limits them to only one formula coming from a single bottle.
