What You Need to Know About Taking Supplements

If you’re focused on your health, it’s likely that you’re taking—or have taken—supplements. The supplement industry is rapidly growing, and there are tens of thousands of nutrients, extracts, herbs, probiotics, and more to choose from. But which supplements should you be taking? How do you know which products to trust? And should you be taking supplements at all?

If you’ve ever asked these questions, you’re not alone. Supplements can be confusing! In this blog, Dr. Morrison shares his insights on how to navigate the noise and make the right choices for you.

Why Take Supplements?

Many people take supplements without considering why. There are numerous reasons, but generally, they boil down to just two: targeting a disease process or health optimization.

• Targeting Disease Process
  Specialized supplement protocols, guided by functional lab testing, can be a vital part of natural healing from chronic conditions. Many natural remedies, when taken correctly, help activate the body’s innate ability to heal and restore balance.
• Health Optimization
  For those who are generally healthy, the right supplements can support wellness or enhance performance. For example, our Immune Defenders can provide a seasonal immunity boost for optimal wellness during the colder months.

Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Take Supplements?

While stressors and toxins are abundant in today’s world, anyone interested in supporting their health can benefit from supplements. But remember:

• Supplements are not replacements for a healthy lifestyle. A wholesome diet, physical activity, and mind-body stress reduction are non-negotiables.
• Certain populations should avoid supplements without professional guidance, including individuals on multiple prescriptions, those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, undergoing chemotherapy, or children.

How to Take Supplements

Taking supplements isn’t as simple as swallowing a pill—there’s an optimal way to approach it to maximize the benefits. Here’s how:

• Follow Dosage Instructions – Take the recommended dosage unless otherwise advised by a healthcare provider.
• Timing of Taking Supplements – Some supplements, like probiotics, can be taken with or without food, while fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) need to be taken with meals for best absorption. In Dr. Morrison's opinion, it's best to take supplements just before a meal or in the middle of a meal.
• Stay Consistent – Make supplements part of your daily routine to ensure regular absorption and effectiveness.
• Hydrate Well – Water is the best choice when taking supplements as it aids digestion and absorption. Avoid tea, coffee, and dairy drinks, as they can interfere with the absorption of some vitamins and minerals. Juice can be helpful for certain supplements, like vitamin C aiding iron absorption, but water remains the most reliable option.
• Avoid Overloading – Don’t take too many supplements at once. Overloading can strain your body. Prioritize what’s essential.
• Monitor Progress – Pay attention to how you feel and report any changes to your healthcare provider.

How to Select Supplements

With so many options, it can be overwhelming to choose the right supplements. Here are a few key tips to help you make informed choices:

• Look for Third-Party Testing – Ensure that the supplements you choose are independently tested for quality and purity. At Daily Benefit, all our supplements are third-party tested, so you can trust what’s inside.
• Research the Manufacturer – Choose reputable brands with a proven track record for producing high-quality, effective supplements. Look for companies that prioritize transparency and ethical sourcing.
• Check for Clean Ingredients – Opt for supplements that contain natural, effective ingredients without unnecessary fillers or additives. The fewer the additives, the better.
• Consider Bioavailability – Choose supplements in forms that your body can easily absorb, like magnesium glycinate over magnesium oxide. Higher bioavailability means better results.
• Avoid Fads – Beware of supplements that promise quick fixes. Stick to science-backed products rather than chasing trends.
• Trust Clinically Curated Products – At Daily Benefit, our supplements are curated by Dr. Morrison, backed by over two decades of clinical experience. We offer products you can rely on for quality and results.

What Supplements to Take

Supplement recommendations are often based on common health concerns that our patients experience. For example, patients are frequently bothered by seasonal issues such as allergies in the spring, cold and flu symptoms during the winter, or the effects of overindulging during the holiday seasons. Dr. Morrison’s protocols are designed to address these specific health challenges and are generally suitable for anyone dealing with similar concerns.

However, no two bodies are alike. If you’re wondering which supplements might be right for your current needs, taking our Symptom Survey is a great place to start. This survey asks you to rate your health based on a range of symptoms and conditions, giving you a snapshot of your health across six main categories.

Remember, we strongly recommend that you talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements. Consulting a professional will give you a better understanding of your health and help guide you through your wellness journey.