One of the most common mistakes people make is to take a handful of supplements all at the same time. You might think you are doing the right thing but are you just wasting your money?
Supplements play a really importing role in boosting health in times of need, but if you are not taking them at the right time, you could actually be doing more harm than good.
All supplements come with instructions and it’s important to take note of whether they are to be taken before, with or after food and there is a reason for that.
WHICH ONES DO I TAKE AND WHEN?
For example, digestive tonics and enzymes are best taken before food to prepare the stomach in helping to breakdown the food that is about to be consumed.
Vitamin D, A and fish oil supplements are fat soluble which means they are better taken with food because they are broken down through the digestive processes and absorbed more efficiently.
Some supplements can stand alone and be taken after or away from food like vitamin C, Magnesium, some B vitamins, and herbs for sleep in the evening.
When you separate your supplements at different times throughout the day, you will get so much more from them in performance and results. Taking them all together can literally cancel each other out and put added unnecessary stress on your digestion and organs, yet they can have such a profound effect on someone’s health when chronically deficient in a particular nutrient.
WHAT DO SUPPLEMENTS DO?
Supplements are primarily designed to give your body a boost when you need it most. It’s like a gentle reminder or a kick up the bum for your body to restore balance and harmony. You may be depleted of nutrients, experiencing pain, inflammation, headaches, or fatigue. Maybe your diet hasn’t been so great lately and you are under a lot of stress, all of which will leave you feeling depleted, possibly anxious, and just not feeling like you are running on all cylinders.
Not all supplements are the same either. You really do get what you pay for, so wasting your money on cheap supermarket brands that contain many fillers will not only drain your pocket, and leave you with the impression that supplements don’t work.
The rule of thumb to remember is that quality supplements can and do work when taken correctly. Always follow the instructions on the label or from your prescribing practitioner. On that note, it is always worth asking someone specialised in supplements what is right for you. Picking what you think is best off the discount shelves is not.
Naturopaths and nutritionists are trained in supplements, nutrition, herbs and lifestyle modalities that treat you as a whole, individual person. Visit your local health store and speak to someone qualified who will address your specific concerns, prescribe the correct supplement and save you money!
Written by Mona Hecke
Mona Hecke is a degree qualified Naturopath, nutrition specialist and health and wellness writer.
With over 20 years in the health industry, beginning with a focus on children and families, and a bestselling book ‘The Lunchbox Revolution’, Mona is now empowering women through education and conversation to take action and embrace change. Gut health, mindfulness, nutrition, hormones, and menopause are the topics that women want and need to know to create their healthy future.
Mona holds certifications in Lifestyle Coaching, Kinesiology, holistic herbal medicine, and nutrition.
A recognised leader in the health industry, Mona’s strong social media presence and passion for influencing change will continue to be a catalyst for health reform for the benefit of every Australian.
