I get asked about supplements a LOT. And the truth of it is through twenty years of trial and error combined with ten years of functional medicine training and application I have arrived at a combo that is perfect for me. No one’s diet is perfect 24/7, 365 days so a backup plan is essential to being proactive about your own health and wellness. Just promise me you won’t go buy a bunch of RANDO supplements on Amazon or GNC! It’s really worth your time to reach out to a functional health practitioner to get the EXACT targeted nutraceutical support you need.
A Disclaimer About Supplements
Supplements are intended to “supplement” – but I think some of us are still stuck in old patterns of belief that “a pill will solve the problem.” Wherever you are in your health, working on a challenge or maintaining the right place for you, take note that your adrenal glands return to a state of homeostasis (balance) a lot faster if you manage your life stress consistently. If meditation doesn’t work for you, try breath work. If getting to the gym is unrealistic, go for a walk, and if you can’t bear the thought of a yoga class, grab a notebook and start a gratitude journal. Any one act that will change your physiology for just ten minutes a day is RESTORATIVE. I talk a LOT about different supplements, nutraceuticals, adaptogens and essential oils that assist the body in healing adrenal gland dysfunction to educate (and hopefully add value to you). But, at the end of the day, supplements are tricky and meant to supplement a current protocol that a health practitioner has designed for you. I talk about supplements A LOT. So how do you know which ones are right for you? Test rather than guess the root causes of your health issues!! Perimenopause (and your hormones during perimenopause) is complex. Guessing which supplements to take might even exacerbate symptoms!
Understanding Supplement Regulations
First, remember supplements aren’t regulated by the FDA like medications. So the safety, efficacy, and quality of supplements can vary widely. Where you purchase them matters! Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring their products are safe (but they don’t always do this) and accurately labeled, but there’s limited oversight to verify any claims.
- Look for products that have been independently tested by reputable organizations. NSF International or ConsumerLab are two to check out.
- In the absence of stringent FDA oversight, knowledge is power. Research supplement brands, read reviews and ask your doc!
- Just because a product is available doesn’t mean it’s safe or appropriate for YOU.
Before taking a new supplement, always consult your doctor, preferably a functional medicine one!
Not All Supplements Are Created Equal
When it comes to supplements, quality matters. Not all supplements are created equal, and the difference in quality can significantly impact their effectiveness and your experience. Some products may contain fillers, artificial ingredients, or lower-quality forms of nutrients that are less bioavailable, meaning your body cannot fully absorb and utilize them.
- First, check for third-party testing and certification on the label, which indicates that the product has undergone independent quality checks.
- Research the brand’s reputation and customer reviews to gauge the experiences of other users. Brands that are transparent about their sourcing and manufacturing processes are more reliable choices.
- Consider supplement form. Some nutrients, like certain vitamins and minerals, have different forms with varying levels of bioavailability. Opt for supplements that use highly bioavailable forms for maximum absorption and effectiveness.
Cycling Supplements
Some supplements, particularly adaptogens, require cycling to maintain their effectiveness and prevent reliance. Adaptogens are natural substances that help the body adapt to stress and restore balance. Cycling means you take the supp for a specific amount of time, then give your body a break before resuming use. You don’t want to develop a tolerance! Plus, you want the adaptogen to keep its efficacy. For example, you might take an adaptogen for four weeks, followed by a one-week break before starting again.
The Importance of Bioavailability
Ever heard of bioavailability? It plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of supplements. It refers to the proportion of a nutrient that your body can absorb and utilize. Even the most potent supplement may be ineffective if it has low bioavailability, as your body may not be able to access the nutrients inside. To enhance bioavailability:
- Choose supplements that use high-quality, easily absorbed forms of nutrients. For example, look for methylated forms of B vitamins or chelated minerals, which tend to have higher absorption rates.
- Some supplements benefit from being taken with food or other nutrients that aid absorption. Check your manufacturer’s directions.
I hope this helps! Remember to TEST and not GUESS the root cause of your symptoms to find supplements that work for YOU. If you know what supplements YOU need, check out my dispensary.
The information provided in this blog post is for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practice and experience by Dr. Francesca LeBlanc. However, this information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician. Do not use the information provided in this post for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. Please, do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read on this website.
