Supplements

Some of you may have a cupboard full of supplements you are unsure about. Some believe that all nutrition can be acquired entirely through food, without need of any supplements, ever. Somewhere in between is where most sit.

Supplements are not made to replace good nutritional food, restful sleep, or regular exercise. They can be taken to help support health when stress, illness, or other life pressure takes hold. They can also be used to boost nutrients that are depleted because they are difficult to obtain in sufficient quantities. Vitamin D is an example of that for many living in the northern hemisphere during the winter months.

Supplements include more than vitamins and minerals. They include a wide variety of nutraceuticals, including essential fatty acids, phytonutrients, enzymes, and extracts from herbs or foods.

My goal is to help you know which supplements would benefit you (and which would not); which are high quality (and which are money down the drain); and which are safe (or best to avoid). For some basics about some of the most common supplements, click here.