“Some supplements are superior for their physical & mental health effects, cost-to-benefit ratio, and accessibility.” ~ Andrew Huberman
All Natural vs. Supplements
One of the big questions in our day and age is whether or not supplements are necessary.
For some, the natural route is the end all be all. For others, supplements are good enough to cover what our bodies might lack or need.
We will review whether supplements are necessary in the article below.
Let’s begin!
Most People Do Not Need Supplements
The NHS states, “Most people do not need to take vitamin supplements and can get all the vitamins and minerals they need by eating a healthy, balanced diet… Many people choose to take supplements, but taking too much or taking them for too long could be harmful. The Department of Health and Social Care recommends certain supplements for some people at risk of deficiency.”
To take supplements, we must understand the reason, amount, and frequency. We need to take time to monitor these things (and speak with a doctor about them) to avoid falling prey to taking too many supplements, overdosing, and taking supplements that could do more damage than good.
Additional Insight from Harvard Health Publishing says, “Even though supplements are popular, there is limited evidence that they offer any significant health benefits. A study published online on May 28, 2018, by the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that the four most commonly used supplements — multivitamins, vitamin D, calcium, and vitamin C — did not protect against cardiovascular disease.”
What Most Supplements Consist Of
According to Penn Medicine, as of 2020, “The most common supplement contains fish oil, omega 3, DHA, or EPA fatty acids.”
The most common forms of supplements tend to come in a multivitamin.
Penn Medicine suggests that the following vitamins can benefit your health. These include:
- Vitamin B12
- Folic acid
- Vitamin D
- Calcium
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Fish oil
- Vitamin A
- Zinc
- Melatonin
Some Supplements Can Enhance Health
Some supplements can enhance your health. Certain supplements can improve certain aspects of your body depending on your current health and situation.
According to News in Health (NIH), “Evidence does suggest that some supplements can enhance health in different ways. The most popular nutrient supplements are multivitamins, calcium and vitamins B, C and D. Calcium supports bone health, and vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium. Vitamins C and E are antioxidants—molecules that prevent cell damage and help to maintain health.”
The Bottom Line
After certain studies, Hopkins Medicine stated, “The researchers concluded that multivitamins don’t reduce the risk for heart disease, cancer, cognitive decline (such as memory loss and slowed-down thinking) or an early death.”
If you are looking to take supplements for your health, there have been proven to be some benefits.
If you are looking for easy ways to bypass, reduce, or prevent certain diseases (cancer, Alzheimer’s, heart disease), supplements are not shown to produce any benefits.
The decision is up to you, but consult your local healthcare provider before buying and experimenting with supplements.
Your Next Steps
For further reading on supplements, view our articles on our learning center on:
- What Happens in Your Body When You Start Taking Supplements?
- Are Supplements Necessary for Good Health?
- Who Should I Talk to About Supplements?
You have what it takes inside you to make a definite choice that will change the future trajectory of your health.
Our team at Tiger Medical Institute has the experience, clinical skills, and coaching acumen to help you get your health and energy back.
To talk to one of our professionals, click here to schedule your call!