Supplements: Friend or Fad? Here’s What You Need to Know

Ever stood in the supplement aisle wondering if those bottles can really replace the nutrients from food? You’re not alone. With the rise of dietary supplements, the debate between if they are worth it or not is more relevant than ever.

Understanding Dietary Supplements

Dietary supplements encompass a wide range of products, including vitamins, minerals, herbs, botanicals, enzymes, and amino acids. Usually taken in pill, capsule, tablet, or liquid form, these supplements are designed to enhance your diet. According to studies, the prevalence of using such nutraceuticals is on the rise globally. Key motivating factors for consumers include perceived health benefits and safety, as well as recommendations from healthcare professionals, friends, and family.

The benefits of supplements:

✅ Fill nutritional gaps in today’s busy world

✅ Support specific conditions (heart health, pregnancy, digestive health, more)

✅ Personalized plans based on your unique needs

The risks of supplements:

⚠️ Over-reliance on pills over real food

⚠️ Poor quality or contaminated products

⚠️ Risk of overdosing or interactions with medications

The Functional Medicine Difference

From the perspective of functional medicine, supplements are viewed as one component of a holistic health plan tailored to the individual. This individualized supplement approach acknowledges that not everyone needs the same supplements; specific health issues, genetic predispositions, or lifestyle factors often dictate the choice of which to use. 

Additionally, functional medicine places a strong emphasis on the importance of supplement quality.

At Beautiful & Well, we start with lab testing to see exactly what your body needs—nothing more, nothing less. No guessing. Just data-driven, personalized supplement strategies designed for your optimal health.

Ready to find your perfect supplement plan?

Schedule your personalized supplement consultation today and get a tailored approach backed by science.

Wishing you good health,

Lynn Fredes, FNP

Rooted in science. Guided by compassion.