8 Tips for Taking Your Supplements from a Functional Nutritionist

Navigating the world of supplements can be overwhelming. With countless vitamins, minerals, and health boosters on the market, it's essential to know not just what to take but how and when to take them for maximum benefit. Here are eight expert tips to help you make the most of your supplement regimen.

1. Understand Your Needs

Before you start any supplement regimen, it's crucial to understand what your body specifically needs. A blood test, like those provided by Keyspan, can reveal your unique biomarker profile, helping you understand any deficiencies or imbalances. Tailoring your supplement intake to your specific needs ensures you're not taking anything unnecessary and focusing on what truly benefits your health.

2. Quality Over Quantity

Not all supplements are created equal, and it’s important to choose high-quality supplements from reputable sources. Look for products that have undergone third-party testing. Keyspan supplements are research backed and third party tested. We also use high quality ingredients that are gluten-free, dairy free and contain no colorants or synthetic fillers.

3. Timing Matters

The effectiveness of some supplements can depend on when you take them. Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) are best taken with a meal that contains fats for better absorption. Water-soluble vitamins (C and the B vitamins), on the other hand, can be taken any time, but some people prefer to take them in the morning to support energy throughout the day. If you are strapped for time and would like to take your supplements all at once, take them with a complete meal, as early in the day as possible. 

4. Consider Food Pairings

Certain nutrients enhance each other's absorption when taken together, while others might inhibit it. For instance, taking iron supplements with a vitamin C source can enhance iron absorption, especially if you're vegetarian or vegan. Conversely, calcium can interfere with the absorption of iron, so they should be taken at different times. This is something that your dedicated Keyspan health coach will go over with you in a coaching session.

5. Be Wary of Interactions

Supplements can interact with medications, other supplements, and even certain foods, potentially impacting their effectiveness or causing adverse effects. Keyspan health coaches will dive deep on your history, lifestyle, and medications. However, it’s still a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you're taking medications.

6. Keep It Consistent

Consistency is key to the effectiveness of any supplement regimen. Establishing a routine can help ensure you're taking your supplements regularly. Keyspan’s supplements have been designed for busy people who want to save time prepping while ensuring that your supplement stack is tailored to your exact needs based on your blood test. You're unique. Your supplements should be too.

7. Keep Supplements Somewhere Visible

A simple yet effective tip is to keep your supplements in a place where you'll see them every day, such as next to your toothbrush or on the kitchen counter. This visual reminder can help ensure you don't forget to take them, making it easier to incorporate them into your daily routine. Keyspan supplement packs are designed with this in mind.

8. Re-evaluate Regularly

Your body's needs can change over time due to factors like aging, lifestyle changes, and health conditions. Keyspan does bi-annual blood tests across 24+ biomarkers to refine your supplementation program every 6 months. This ensures we’re helping you with additional nourishment in-line with your evolving needs and nutrition plan. 

In Conclusion

Supplements can play a significant role in supporting your overall health, but they're most effective when used thoughtfully and in conjunction with a balanced diet. Remember, supplements are there to complement your diet, not replace it. If you're considering starting a supplement regimen or making changes to your current one, it's always best to consult with a registered dietitian or healthcare provider.

Ready to take control of your health with a personalized supplement plan? Discover how Keyspan can help tailor a regimen just for you. Learn more and get started today.