Something to Know About Dietary Supplements
Did you know that "natural" doesn't always mean safe, and "supplement" doesn't always mean necessary? After years of researching and writing about dietary supplements, I've noticed a fascinating paradox in the $150+ billion industry:
Over 50% of U.S. adults take supplements monthly, yet many might be getting little to no benefit. Here's what 8 years in the industry has taught me about bioavailability - the real MVP of supplementation:
Think of bioavailability like delivering mail to your home. Just because you sent it (took the supplement) doesn't guarantee delivery (absorption into your bloodstream). Some fascinating examples:
? That expensive iron supplement you're taking? It might be better absorbed with your morning orange juice (Vitamin C) than your calcium-rich breakfast.
? Taking fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) without healthy fats? You might as well be throwing money away.
The most counterintuitive finding: More expensive doesn't always mean better quality. I've seen $10 supplements outperform $50 ones simply because they were better formulated for absorption.
?? Question for my network: What's your most surprising supplement discovery? Have you ever noticed a significant difference between different brands of the same supplement?
#Supplements #Wellness #Healthcare #NutritionalScience #HealthTech #BioavailabilityMatters #WellnessWednesday
?? P.S. Currently working on a comprehensive guide to supplement evaluation. DM if you'd like early access to our quality assessment checklist.