Supplements can be a powerful tool in supporting overall health, but when misused, they can do more harm than good. As a practitioner, I’ve seen clients make similar mistakes repeatedly regarding their supplement routines. In this post, I’m breaking down the five most common supplement mistakes I see and offering tips on how to avoid them. Let’s dive in!
1. Taking the Wrong Dose
One of the most common mistakes I see is taking either too little or too much of a supplement. Many people assume that “more is better,” but that’s not always the case when it comes to supplements. Taking too much of certain nutrients can be harmful, and taking too little might not have any noticeable effect at all.
Tip: Always follow the recommended dosage on the supplement label or, even better, consult with a healthcare provider to determine the right dosage for your specific needs. It’s important to consider factors like your age, weight, health conditions, and diet before deciding on the appropriate dose.
2. Taking the Wrong Form
Not all supplements are created equal. Some supplements are better absorbed in certain forms than others. For example, magnesium comes in various forms, such as magnesium citrate, glycinate, and oxide. Some forms are more bioavailable and easier for your body to absorb than others.
Tip: Research the different forms of the supplement you’re taking, and consider which one is best suited for your body. If you’re not sure, ask your healthcare provider about the most effective form for your specific needs.
3. Taking It at the Wrong Time of Day
The timing of when you take your supplements can affect how well they work. Some supplements are best taken with meals to improve absorption, while others may be better on an empty stomach. For example, fat-soluble vitamins like Vitamin D should be taken with a meal that contains fat for optimal absorption, while iron needs to be away from certain medications and minerals such as calcium.
Tip: Check whether your supplements need to be taken with food or on an empty stomach and follow the recommended timing. If you’re unsure, your healthcare provider can guide you in terms of what time of day will optimize your results.
4. Taking Something That’s Making Your Other Symptoms Worse
This one is more common than you might think—sometimes supplements can exacerbate other health issues or symptoms. For example, certain herbs or nutrients may interact with medications or other supplements, or they may not be suitable for individuals with specific health conditions.
Tip: Always check with your doctor or a healthcare professional before introducing a new supplement to your routine, especially if you’re already taking medications or have pre-existing health conditions. Be mindful of potential interactions or side effects, and listen to your body—if something feels off, stop and consult a professional.
5. Taking Too Many Supplements
More isn’t always better. Taking a handful of supplements each day without fully understanding why you need each one can lead to nutrient imbalances or over-supplementation. It can also be overwhelming for your system to process multiple supplements at once, especially if they’re not needed.
Tip: Be strategic and intentional about your supplement use. Focus on your specific health goals and consider speaking with a professional to identify which supplements are truly beneficial for you. Less can be more when it comes to supplementation—aim for quality over quantity.
Final Thoughts
Supplements can be incredibly helpful, but they need to be used wisely. The key to success with supplementation is understanding what works best for your body, taking the right doses, choosing the correct forms, and being mindful of when and how you take them. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can make sure your supplement routine is as effective as possible.
If you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider to get personalized guidance on the best approach for your unique health needs. Your body will thank you for it!
Let me know what you think! Would love to hear your thoughts or any other supplement-related questions you might have.