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What is a REAL supplement? In the United States, much of what we buy in a package with an ingredients list is FAKE. What do I mean by this statement? The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates dietary supplements, it does not approve them before they are marketed. The responsibility for ensuring the safety and proper labeling of dietary supplements lies with the manufacturers and distributors. Unlike drugs, dietary supplements do not need FDA approval before they are marketed. When we see an ingredient, let’s use the example of iron here, we assume that iron is absorbed in the body from taking the product in our diet. This is often not true. This is where the term Bioavailability comes into play. Bioavailability refers to the extent and rate at which the active ingredients in a dietary supplement are absorbed and made available for use or storage in the body. The bioavailability of supplements is a crucial factor because it determines how effectively the nutrients or compounds can be utilized. The quality of vitamins and supplements can vary significantly, and some manufacturers may prioritize profit over quality. Cheap and synthetic forms look equal on a label, but are basically useless for the body. Worse than useless are these cheap products because they add to the burden of detoxification on the liver, bloodstream, bones and brain. Synthetic forms of vitamins and minerals instead of more bioavailable forms do not absorb . Using inferior ingredients and cutting corners in manufacturing processes can significantly reduce production costs and increase profit margins. Investing more in marketing and packaging to create the perception of a high-quality product rather than investing in actual product quality. I have so many clients that have harmed their health buying into a gimmick on places like TikTok with promises of cures. All of us have heard the quote of our elders telling us “anything that seems too good to be true, is too good to be true.” There is no supplement that can outperform a poor diet, period. Look for supplements that have been independently tested and certified by organizations like NSF International, USP (United States Pharmacopeia), or ConsumerLab. Understand the forms of vitamins and minerals that are most bioavailable and effective. Check the ingredient list for fillers, artificial additives, and the actual amounts of active ingredients. Lastly, seek advice from healthcare professionals who can recommend high-quality supplements based on your specific needs. Licensed professionals like me can take the guess work out of shopping for you. To set up a free chat, contact me at hello@angiesrealfood.com, or call or text me at 619-807-1387. My door is always open.
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