How to Start a Supplement Routine

Starting a self-care routine is hard enough, and now you have to tackle a supplement routine. But how do you know which supplements to take? How can you tell if they’re actually improving your health? Should you consult your doctor first?

In episode 007 of the podcast, we discuss starting a supplement routine with health and nutrition expert Cameron Excell. Below is a snippet of what you can expect from the episode.

This blog is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

Can You Get All Your Nutrients from Food?

Yes, it’s possible to get all your daily nutrients from a well-balanced diet. However, food quality today isn’t what it was 60 years ago. Many foods are now highly processed, loaded with sugar, salt, and preservatives, which lowers their nutrient content.

While we produce more food to meet demand, it often lacks essential nutrients. Supplements allow you to add the right amount of nutrients into your body when you’re not receiving it from a food source. 

With cold and flu season here, it’s even more important to boost your immunity. Check out these 10 winter wellness tips from Pria Joshi to stay in shape.

Is There One Supplement for Everyone?

Unfortunately, no—there’s no single pill that works for everyone. However, a good multivitamin can come close as long as it’s well-formulated.

Don’t just grab the cheapest option at the store. Instead, look for high-quality supplements that are easier for your body to absorb.

Cameron shared an interesting fact: “90% of the population can only absorb B vitamins when they’re in methylated form.”

If you’re unfamiliar with methylated B vitamins, they’re simply B vitamins that your body can absorb more easily because they’re already in their active form. Non-methylated B vitamins need to be converted by your body first, which takes more effort and can reduce absorption.

Men vs. Women’s Supplements: What’s the Difference?

Are supplements different for men and women? Yes, they are!

Men and women have different hormonal needs. Women’s bodies follow a 28-day cycle, which means we often require more nutrients than men.

One major health concern for women is thyroid issues. Women have a 1 in 8 chance of developing thyroid problems in their lifetime and are 5 to 8 times more likely than men to experience these issues.

One key nutrient for thyroid health is iodine, which also supports breast and ovarian tissue. A deficiency in iodine can contribute to thyroid problems, making it an important supplement for women.

Why Consult a Doctor Before Starting Supplements?

Before starting any routine, it helps to know what works best for you. This is why consulting your doctor is essential when beginning a supplement routine.

Your doctor can help identify which supplements you actually need by reviewing your bloodwork. Since everyone’s body is different, this ensures you’re addressing any deficiencies and not taking unnecessary supplements.

They can also check for allergies or reactions to specific supplements. For example, not everyone can tolerate fish oil, and your doctor can help you find alternative sources of omega-3s.

Getting professional guidance helps you learn more about your body and ensures you’re making informed decisions about your health.

Should You Use Off-Market Supplements?

If your doctor disagrees with your supplement choices or refuses to run certain tests, you might feel tempted to turn to off-market supplements. However, this isn’t a safe route—you never know what’s really in those products.

Instead, consider getting a second opinion from another doctor. It’s your health, and you have the right to seek the best care. But if your bloodwork shows you don’t need a particular supplement, it’s best to follow your doctor’s advice rather than risk unregulated products.

Be Smart About Your Supplement Routine

Starting a supplement routine involves understanding your body’s needs, which requires professional testing and guidance. Consult your doctor before adding any new supplements to your diet.

Like any routine, it takes time and effort to establish a habit. If you’re looking to create a self-care routine, check out this episode for tips on making it stick.