Which Supplements to take ?
Supplements: Do You Really Need Them?
Supplements are everywhere – from multivitamins to herbal powders to fish oil capsules. But do you really need them? The truth is: while supplements can help bridge nutritional gaps, they’re not a substitute for a healthy diet. In this article, we’ll help you understand when supplements are useful, which deficiencies to test for, and how our team works with you to make it simple and safe.
Confused about supplements? Chat with our nutritionist for personalised support.
Why We Don’t Test Every Vitamin
There are over a dozen vitamins and minerals you could test for, but doing every single test is not practical – both financially and logistically. A full micronutrient panel can cost tens of thousands of rupees. Instead, in our programs we work with you to:
- Identify likely deficiencies based on your lifestyle and symptoms
- Prioritise the most important and cost-effective tests
- Customise supplements and diet to your needs
This approach ensures you aren’t wasting money on unnecessary tests or supplements.
Most Common Deficiencies to Test
| Nutrient | Symptoms | Food Sources | Doctor Supervision? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vitamin D | Fatigue, low immunity, bone pain, mood swings | Sunlight, fortified milk, eggs, mushrooms | Yes – dosage should be prescribed by a doctor |
| Iron | Hair fall, weakness, pale skin, brittle nails | Spinach, beetroot, lentils, red meat | Yes – excess iron can be toxic |
| Vitamin B12 | Numbness, dizziness, fatigue, memory issues | Dairy, eggs, chicken, fortified cereals | Yes – injections may be needed in severe cases |
| Magnesium | Muscle cramps, poor sleep, anxiety | Pumpkin seeds, almonds, spinach, dark chocolate | Usually safe, but high doses need monitoring |
Want to know which deficiencies might be affecting you? Message us on WhatsApp and let our team guide you.
Do You Really Need a Supplement?
Most healthy people don’t. But some situations do call for extra support – pregnancy, ageing, restricted diets, or certain health conditions. For example: women planning pregnancy are advised folic acid; those with inflammatory bowel disease may need extra B12 and D. Always check with a professional before starting.
Supplements and Safety
While multivitamins are generally safe, overdosing can cause serious issues. For instance:
- Vitamin D excess can cause kidney stones
- Vitamin A in pregnancy may increase birth defect risk
- Vitamin K can interfere with blood thinners
This is why supplements should never be self-prescribed without testing or guidance.
5 Truths About Supplements
- Supplements come in many forms (pills, powders, liquids)
- Some are effective – e.g. B12, folic acid, vitamin D
- Supplements aren’t always safe if misused
- Always consult your doctor before combining with medicines
- Nothing replaces the nutrient power of real food
Remember: supplements are only part of the picture. A personalised diet and lifestyle plan is what makes the real difference. Chat with us today to get started.
Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and should not replace consultation with a qualified doctor. Always test before supplementing and seek professional guidance on dosages.
Leave a comment