Have you wondered if you need supplements?
In the world of holistic wellness our connection to nature and our own bodies is at the heart of everything we do. The question of whether everyone needs supplements to stay healthy is a lot like tuning in to the rhythm of the Earth itself. We’ve journeyed for centuries on this planet, sustained by the bounty of the land and the wisdom of our ancestors. As a holistic nutritional consultant, I embrace the healing power of herbs, the vibrant energy of fresh, whole foods, and the gentle, natural flow of harmony and balance. So, let’s explore the answer to this question, all while keeping our feet firmly grounded and our spirits high.
What are supplements?
Let me first ask, have you ever considered what the word supplement really means when you’re shopping for vitamins or minerals, or even protein shakes?
Lots of people think that the word supplement is a “noun” describing a type of product. The product name is a noun but the action of a supplement is a “verb”. Its action is to supplement the nutrients in the food that you consume every day that might be deficient in your diet.
Some of the reasons for these deficiencies are:
· Our modern agricultural practices
· Overcooking a lot of our foods
· Microwaving too much
· Not eating all the colours of the rainbow (each colour usually signals different nutrients available)
Reasons Why Nutrients Are Lacking in our Bodies
There are LOTS of reasons why some nutrients are lacking in our systems. The goal of supplements is to literally “supplement” what you are already taking in. They are not a real meal replacement or a substitute for not eating a well-balanced whole foods diet or an excuse to eat crap. You can’t compensate for poor nutrition through a pill or a shake.
In my experience working in the health food industry and a health food store for several years, many people are led to believe by the instant gratification of today’s society that you can just switch a pill for ill, and that’s simply not true. You have to look at the root cause of what you are addressing. Sometimes it will surprise you too, I have seen that many times in my practice.
I remember one specific example when the newspaper published the new latest and greatest supplement for arthritis, our store was quickly packed and quickly sold out! We couldn’t stock enough, neither could the stores around us.
Was this because the supplement was so effective? OR because the marketing was so effective? These pills were marketed to any person who had a host of symptoms anyone could be suffering from at any time and they played on that emotion. Marketing companies ask questions like: Are you tired? Stiff when you get up in the morning? Feeling less inclined to exercise? How many people can say yes to those things? Was Arthritis eradicated by the miracle pill?
You guessed it, NO!
Beware of Mixing Supplements with Medications
What bothered me the most was that oftentimes the hopeful customers didn’t realize that supplements can mix with medications that you’re already taking, be counterproductive, and even dangerous. That made me very sad and I felt disappointed for those people who had pinned their hopes on the miracle pill they were led to believe would solve all their problems.
Don’t get me wrong I fully believe there is a place for supplements when they are required to address deficiencies, inflammation, support digestion, and a variety of other places where they can be very beneficial. But you need ALL the information, and do you know the root cause? Are you addressing the right thing?
This is something that oftentimes marketing and advertising do not point out, you need to consult a professional to make sure if you take other medications or have other health issues that they are safe for you.
The population that flooded our store was generally people over 50 who felt unseen and unheard because arthritis has been tagged as a natural part of aging….but does it have to be? And is all your pain and discomfort from arthritis? Are you consuming some foods that are inflammatory to you? Are you getting enough (or the right) exercise for you? Drinking enough water? ….I could go on.
How a Holistic Nutritional Consultant Helps Support a Healthy You
Overall, it’s important to consult a professional, like myself, who has studied the benefits of nutrition, and if you need them for added support. I can walk you through the risks and help you manage other factors that can influence your health.
There is never just one quick fix, or one magic pill or all diseases would be gone! Supplements are meant to SUPPLEMENT not to cure. To support and improve health in partnership with a fully holistic approach filling your body with healthy cells and leaving little room for disease.
Knowing that you can understand what you read on the label of a supplement bottle will allow you to make decisions that are right for you.
If you ever have questions or seek guidance on your holistic path, reach out via my contact form on my website. Let’s continue to take great care of ourselves, staying energized, engaged, and in tune with the beautiful rhythm of life.
Take great care and stay energized and engaged,
Kathleen
