Top 5 Tips for Selecting Quality Supplements

by | May 11, 2023 | Functional Medicine

Today, Dr. Lloyd Anderson addresses a vital question from our audience about the often perplexing world of supplements. With a plethora of choices available, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and unintentionally choose subpar products. Dr. Anderson, a trusted voice in the field of functional medicine, provides five essential tips to help you make informed decisions when sourcing supplements.

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  1. Ingredients List Matters: Before anything else, Dr. Anderson recommends diving into the ingredients list. Cheap fillers and poor-quality components are often used in substandard supplements. To ensure you’re making the right choice, be on the lookout for ingredients like corn oil, soybean oil, polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl alcohol, or rice flour. These fillers may do more harm than good.

  2. Watch Out for Gummies: Gummy supplements might seem enticing, especially for kids, but they often contain excessive sugar and texturizing agents like Acacia gum or carrageenan gum. Dr. Anderson advises against them, as they can lead to GI distress and blood sugar issues.

  3. Trust Your Nose: Intriguingly, Dr. Anderson suggests using your sense of smell as a barometer of supplement quality. Rancid or fishy odors in fish oil, for instance, can be indicators of poor quality. If something doesn’t smell right, it’s best to steer clear.

  4. Seek Certification: Dr. Anderson emphasizes the importance of looking for certifications like IFOS (International Fish Oil Society) or IKOS (International Krill Oil Society) on fish oil and krill oil supplements. These certifications ensure that the products are pure, free from heavy metals, and of high quality.

  5. Consider the Cost: While higher-quality supplements often come with a higher price tag, Dr. Anderson urges you to consider the long-term investment in your health. If you must choose between a cheaper and a more expensive option, opt for the latter. Remember that supplements should complement a healthy lifestyle, not replace it.

Conclusion: Choosing the right supplements can significantly impact your well-being. Dr. Lloyd Anderson’s five tips are your compass in navigating the world of supplements. With a discerning eye on ingredients, a cautious approach to gummies, and a willingness to invest in quality, you can make more informed choices for your health. Supplements should enhance your overall well-being, not compromise it.