SUPPLEMENTS

Many people ask the following question:

“I eat wholesome, healthy food. Why in the world would I need to take supplements?”

The answer is simple. Throughout much of the U.S., land has been over-farmed and over-grazed. Soil quality has been greatly reduced and as a result food is low in minerals, vitamins, and nutrients.

Our food supply is also depleted of nutrients thanks to food processing and preserving. Fortunately, more people are realizing the importance of complementing their diet with supplements to boost their health and lose weight.

Darla Miller, owner of Leesburg Herb Shoppe, answers questions about supplements

Q: Why should people take supplements?

A: Supplements provide us with important nutrients that many people don’t get with food because they have poor digestion.

Q: Are people of all ages buying supplements?

A: The primary people I see in my store are ages 40 and older. Sometimes, I do get young new parents, but most of my customers are above 40.

Q: What is your most popular supplement?

A:Digestive aids. I see many people with digestive issues who desire to cleanse and strengthen their guts. Most healing starts in the gut.

Q: There are hundreds of supplement brands out there. Which one do you prefer?

A: I stick with one brand, Nature’s Sunshine. The company has been around for 43 years. The company adheres to a strict testing protocol and is FDA compliant. I know that whatever is on the label is in the supplement. Never be afraid to call a company and ask about its products.

Here’s what Evan Dupont, manager of Vitamin Shoppe in Clermont, says about supplements.

Q: What are your most popular brands of supplements?

A: Multi-vitamins and fish oils. I think it’s because multi-vitamins and fish oils are heavily pushed nationally.

Q: How does fish oil play in role in better health?

A: Fish oils are very beneficial for cardiovascular health, cognitive function, eye function, and for healthy joints and skin.

Q: Should I consult my doctor before taking supplements?

A: Yes. There’s always a chance your doctor could have you on a medication that doesn’t interact well with supplements. Your doctor should be aware of any supplement you’re taking so there are no adverse interactions.

Michelle Mommaerts of Green Apple in Lady Lake also shared her opinion about supplements.

Q: If somebody only takes one supplement, what kind of supplement should it be?

A: A probiotic because it helps maintain the health of your digestive system. A good probiotic helps you absorb nutrients from food.

Q: What is your most popular supplement?

A: CuraMed. I’ve received testimony after testimony how it helps with inflammation and relieves pain. Customers come back each month to purchase this product.

Q: Are supplements more effective in pill or liquid form?

A: It’s really a personal preference. Some feel like liquid is more easily absorbed into the body, but there are great companies out there that make excellent supplements in capsule and pill form. A lot of it depends on the quality of the brand you buy.