Why professional supplements? In a perfect world we wouldn’t need supplements, we’d all be eating a nutrient-dense, whole foods diet that provided everything we need. The truth is, our soils are depleted of minerals and we don’t eat the diet we fantasize about. Additionally, many of us require therapeutic doses of specific nutrients to correct imbalances that contribute to sub-optimal health. For most of us, targeted nutritional supplements play a significant role in helping us thrive.
There have been several media stories recently calling attention to the quality of supplements on the market. I have people ask me almost daily about supplements and which brand to purchase at a grocery or big box store. It’s important to recognize that there are two main types of supplements: consumer-grade and professional grade. From a manufacturing standpoint, the nutrient and herbal industries are poorly regulated. Far too many instances exist where unknown substances are added or something important was never included. The companies supplying professional-grade supplements provide assurance that what is on the label is exactly what is in the bottle. These pharmaceutical grade supplements deliver the purest, most potent and effective formulas that are rigorously tested to ensure our bodies can absorb and assimilate them. They are formulated and manufactured with the highest quality materials and standards and are third-party tested. They are also free of allergens, artificial dyes, potentially harmful excipients and unnecessary fillers. The same is not true for consumer-grade supplements. Unfortunately, many companies use lower quality ingredients to reduce their costs-and you won’t see that on the label.
Professional-grade supplement lines are not sold in big chain retail or online stores because these manufacturers believe that proper education by licensed and properly trained healthcare professionals is vital to the proper use of their product. While you might find them on the Internet there is no guarantee they haven’t expired and may have been sitting in a hot warehouse for months.
It’s important to consider your current health conditions, health history and any medications you may be taking to determine what’s right for you. Did you know that many prescriptions actually deplete your body of specific nutrients? Contact me to determine which supplements may be beneficial for you as there is not a blanket recommendation that works for everyone.
Bottom line – if you are going to spend money on supplements to support your health, spend it wisely on professional-grade products that assure you are getting what you pay for.