Should I take supplements?

This is a question I am often asked, but the answer is really dependent on the person, their life stage, and their health.

The short answer is no if you follow a balanced and healthy diet. However there are some circumstances where supplements are helpful…

1. Diet type

Supplements can be useful to cover any nutritional gaps if you are following a specific diet. For example, a vegan or vegetarian diet may require vitamin B12 and omega-3 supplementation.

If you are intolerant to certain foods, it may be a good idea to check that your nutrition is covered while excluding those foods.

2. Specific times in your life or time of year

Supplementation is really important during specific times such as pregnancy, postpartum, and while trying to conceive.

Vitamin D is also essential during winter time.

3. Life stage

If you are older, and have trouble meeting your nutritional requirements to keep your brain, bones, and immune system strong and healthy, you may benefit from targeted high quality supplements.

4. Health

If you have a chronic disease, certain vitamin and minerals may be beneficial in a higher dose than that typically found in food. This is when supplementation can be really helpful.

5. Chronic stress

If you are chronically stressed or are experiencing anxiety, your body may have a higher requirement for certain vitamins and minerals. Certain supplements can be helpful to support the body during this time.

6. Soil nutrient depletion

Evidence also suggests that food is now not providing as much nutrition as it used to due to soil nutrient depletion. The disruption of soil microbial health by harmful farming practices, such as overuse of pesticides and over-farming, may be the cause of this decline.

Confused about supplements?

I create personalised nutrition and lifestyle plans that include evidence-based supplement recommendations specific to your life stage and health goals.

If you are confused about which supplements you should be taking, and would like to work with a registered nutritional therapist, book in for a free 30 minute consultation.