Ever stood in the supplement aisle, staring at the endless rows of bottles, and wondering, “What on earth do I need?” You’re not alone. Navigating the world of supplements can feel like solving a puzzle without the picture on the box. Thankfully, Dr. Terri and clinical nutritionist Elizabeth DiMeo took a deep dive into this topic on her podcast, breaking down everything from probiotics to inflammation—and trust me, you’ll walk away feeling smarter and maybe even a bit healthier.
What Supplements Should I Take?
Let’s face it: not all supplements are created equal. Elizabeth explained the difference between general supplements and nutraceuticals, which are like the VIPs of the supplement world. “Nutraceuticals are beyond the diet but before drugs,” she noted, emphasizing their prescriptive power in addressing specific health concerns. Think of them as super-heroes for your body, tackling chronic inflammation or boosting your immune system.
So, what should be in your arsenal? According to Elizabeth, it depends on your goals. Vitamin D paired with K2 is a game-changer for bone health. Probiotics? Essential for gut health. But here’s the kicker: not every over-the-counter brand delivers the quality you need. Elizabeth warns, “Without third-party testing, you could be buying glorified plant dust.”
Nutraceuticals: The Next Level of Wellness
Nutraceuticals are gaining recognition as a cornerstone of modern preventative healthcare. These powerful supplements go beyond providing basic nutrients, offering targeted benefits for specific health conditions. Elizabeth highlighted their role in reducing inflammation, improving gut health, and even combating stress-related hormonal imbalances. Unlike general supplements, nutraceuticals often feature concentrated bioactive compounds designed for therapeutic effects.
For instance, omega-3s can lower inflammation, while curcumin—a key component in turmeric—has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Other examples include adaptogens like ashwagandha, which supports hormonal balance and stress resilience, and certain strains of probiotics that enhance immune health. When paired with a nutrient-dense diet and a balanced lifestyle, nutraceuticals can amplify your wellness journey.
Can Inflammation Cause Weight Gain?
Short answer: absolutely. Inflammation isn’t just the villain behind sore joints or fatigue—it can also mess with your metabolism. Dr. Terri pointed out, “Inflammation disrupts your physiology, making it harder to shed those extra pounds.” This is especially true if you’ve got a gut out of balance. Too much bad bacteria can lead to a metabolic spiral that leaves you feeling sluggish and bloated.
The good news? Anti-inflammatory supplements like omega-3s and curcumin can help tame the internal fire. Pair these with a healthy diet (goodbye, processed snacks), and you’ll be setting your body up for success.
What Do Probiotics Do?
If you’re like most people, the word *probiotic* recalls yogurt commercials or the fancy refrigerated section at your health food store. But what do probiotics do? Elizabeth summed it up: “Probiotics restore balance in the gut by adding good bacteria where it’s needed most.”
Your gut is home to more bacteria than your body has cells. Crazy, right? These bacteria influence everything from digestion to mood. But Elizabeth advises starting slow, especially if you’re new to the probiotic game. “Start low, go slow,” she says. Nobody needs a gas-and-bloating fiesta when they’re just trying to get healthier.
What Supplements Lower Cortisol?
Feeling constantly stressed? Cortisol, your body’s stress hormone, could be to blame. Elevated cortisol levels can wreak havoc, leading to fatigue, brain fog, and—you guessed it—weight gain. The solution? Supplements like ashwagandha and magnesium glycinate. These help to regulate cortisol and keep your stress in check.
Elizabeth also emphasized the importance of a holistic approach. “It’s not just about popping a pill. Combine supplements with self-care, exercise, and mindfulness practices for the best results.” So yes, those yoga classes you’ve been eyeing are worth it.
Preventative Health Care: A Must for Modern Living
Dr. Terri hit the nail on the head when she said, “The majority of chronic illnesses are preventable.” Preventative healthcare is all about acting now to avoid problems later. Supplements are a crucial piece of that puzzle. For instance, incorporating omega-3s, vitamin C, and probiotics into your daily routine can improve everything from your immune system to your heart health.
The podcast highlighted how supplements work best when paired with lifestyle changes. Translation: you can’t out-supplement a bad diet. Start by swapping out ultra-processed foods for whole, nutrient-dense options. Then, use targeted supplements to fill in the gaps.
Can Supplements Replace a Healthy Diet?
This one’s tricky. While supplements can enhance your health, they’re not a magic bullet. As Elizabeth put it, “Supplements are just that—a supplement to a good diet, not a replacement.” The focus should always be on eating a variety of nutrient-rich foods, from leafy greens to lean proteins.
That said, certain conditions or lifestyle factors may warrant additional support. For instance, if you’re always indoors or live in a colder climate, a vitamin D supplement might be non-negotiable. Similarly, if stress is your middle name, adaptogens can give you the needed edge.
Ready to Optimize Your Health?
Whether you’re looking to improve your gut health, lower cortisol, or simply feel more energized, EVEXIAS Health Solutions is here to help. Our team specializes in personalized healthcare plans that include supplements, hormone optimization, and more. Ready to take the next step? Find a provider near you today and discover the power of preventative health.
