As more and more studies link common supplements like daily multivitamins to minimal or even negative results, it’s understandable that people are having second thoughts. They want to know whether multivitamins and supplements actually work, and it’s a good question to ask. But there’s a caveat to the answer that changes everything.
THE VITAMIN SOURCE MATTERS
Health care professionals and individuals alike recognize that essential vitamins are missing in the daily diets of many, many people. The conventional wisdom is to supplement our diets with vitamins, which are critical for proper development and overall health. A deficiency of vital vitamins can create havoc in the body and the brain over time, opening the door to major illnesses and ailments.
This means we have a situation in which our diets aren’t sufficient by themselves, and supplementation is necessary. But research is suggesting that these very supplements are creating their own problems. Here’s something interesting – many of these studies fail to factor for the vitamin source.
SYNTHETIC VS NATURAL NUTRIENTS
The real question should be whether synthetic nutrients offer the same benefits as natural nutrients.
- Synthetic nutrients, or isolated nutrients, are created artificially through an industrial process.
- Natural nutrients are derived from whole food sources. That means “whole food supplements” are made from concentrated, dehydrated whole foods.
Most of the supplements on the market today, including vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants, are made artificially. They’re designed to mimic the way natural nutrients act in the body. And while they may be chemically identical to the nutrients found in food, the production process is dramatically different.
The question is whether the body’s reaction to synthetic nutrients is likewise different, and how well we can absorb and use these compounds. When we eat real food, we’re taking in a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. Synthetic nutrients don’t offer this full-spectrum mix, which is why it’s unlikely they’re being used in the body in the same way as natural nutrients.
THE RIGHT CHOICE
If you aren’t planning to completely overhaul your diet to include vitamins and minerals from a range of healthy, whole food sources, supplementation is a good option – assuming your sources are good. Here’s what to consider in your choices:
- The vitamin source – synthetic or natural?
- Encapsulation – are they vegetarian or in gelatin-based caps?
- Balance – do they balance the five elements and pH levels?
- Are they alkaline or acidic?
- Do they contain food coloring or dyes?
- How were they preserved?
The right supplementation can do wonders, but finding the right source is key. Here in Reno, Dr. Lynelle McSweeney takes a well-rounded, holistic approach to health and wellness. In addition to traditional chiropractic, she offers a number of therapies and treatments. Supplementation and nutrition is often included. If you’re struggling with ongoing health issues beyond back or neck pain, you may be surprised at the difference chiropractic care can make. Learn more about what to expect at your first visit, and schedule a visit today.