Dietary supplements are more popular than ever, with over 80% of Americans using some form of supplementation, according to the 2021 Consumer Survey on Dietary Supplements. From vitamins, minerals, and probiotics to botanical herbs, mushrooms, and amino acids, supplements are widely used to enhance overall health and wellness. However, not all supplements are created equal, and it’s crucial to understand how to choose high-quality, safe, and effective products.
Why Are Supplements Important?
Supplements can help fill nutritional gaps in our diet, supporting immune function, gut health, energy levels, and overall wellness. However, they should always be used as an adjunct to a whole-food diet, not a replacement for nutritious foods. Like prescription medications, supplements must be taken at the proper dosage to avoid unwanted side effects or interactions.
The Lack of FDA Regulation in the Supplement Industry
Unlike pharmaceuticals, the FDA does not regulate dietary supplements in the same way. While the FDA has established Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) to ensure the purity and composition of supplements, not all companies comply with these standards.
Unfortunately, many mass-market supplement brands sold in grocery stores and pharmacies contain low-quality ingredients, artificial fillers, and contaminants. Some supplements, such as fish oil, may even be rancid when they reach consumers! This is particularly concerning for individuals with autoimmune disorders, allergies, and sensitivities.
How to Choose High-Quality Supplements
To ensure safety and effectiveness, selecting supplements from reputable sources is essential. Here are key factors to look for when purchasing dietary supplements:
✅ Medical-Grade Supplements
Medical-grade supplements undergo rigorous third-party testing to verify purity, potency, and safety. These products are free from unnecessary fillers, artificial additives, gluten, soy, and GMOs.
✅ Third-Party Certification Seals
Look for third-party verification seals from independent organizations that test and inspect supplement manufacturing sites. These seals indicate that the product has met strict quality standards, ensuring safe and effective ingredients.
✅ Full Ingredient Transparency
Reputable supplement brands provide clear labeling with accurate ingredient lists and proper dosing information. If a supplement lacks transparency, it may contain harmful additives or suboptimal dosages.
Food First: The Best Source of Vitamins and Minerals
While supplements can be beneficial, whole, nutrient-dense foods should be the primary source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. However, due to factors such as poor soil quality, dietary restrictions, and health conditions, supplementation is often necessary to support optimal health and wellness.
Stasha-Gae Roberts Trusted Supplement Sources
Stasha-Gae Roberts, nurse practitioner, recommends trusted brands through Fullscript and Wholescripts to ensure her patients receive safe, high-quality supplements. These platforms provide medical-grade supplements that adhere to GMP guidelines and have been third-party tested for purity and potency.
Enhance Your Health with High-Quality Supplements
Choosing clean, high-quality supplements is essential for supporting immune health, digestion, energy, and overall well-being. Don’t compromise your health with low-quality products that may contain contaminants or ineffective ingredients.
Call or text 813-669-3084 to learn more about how Stasha-Gae Roberts, nurse practitioner, can guide you in selecting the right supplements to support your journey to lasting wellness and vitality.
