Why quality matters: Practitioner-only vs store supplements

The rise of the Wellness industry has over-saturated the supplement market, and clients come to me with a stack of products wanting advice because they have seen no changes. As a qualified naturopath, I work with practitioner only products that are not available to the general public without an initial consultation. Once a client has had a consult, I form a wellness plan that includes nutritional supplementation that aligns with the main health goal(s).

I love the extensive ranges that I can offer my clientele but want to reinforce that SUPPLEMENTS should always be SUPPLEMENTAL to a well-balanced diet and lifestyle.

SO WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE?

Over the counter/store-bought supplements

Once you get past the attractive branding and clever marketing, many OTC brands contain low amounts of active ingredients, use the cheaper part of the plant or the more inexpensive form of vitamin/mineral, which then is bulked up with fillers which can be no so great for your health. The big downside to this, is you can spend money on products that not only won't be effective but can use harmful fillers that add to the toxic load that your liver has to deal with.

In short

• The forms of nutrients used are cheaper and less absorbed

• The nutrient dose is not enough, and is not effective

• Unnecessary cheap ingredients are added such as fillers, flavours and colours that act as glue, flavour enhancers and even change the colour which can negatively impact health.

• Without the support of a qualified practitioner, these supplements may be unnecessary or you may not be identifying the root cause

Practitioner-only supplements 

Let's get it out of the way, practitioner-only supplements can be more expensive (but not always). This is because these brands source high-quality ingredients and build formulations based on therapeutic dosing. The process of ensuring continued quality requires something called good manufacturing practices (GMP), which tests and tracks product creation all the way through. Another key factor of practitioner brands is the Scientific research that supports their products' efficacy (how well something works). This enables me as a naturopath to support my clinical decision-making with product research to best help my clients.

In short

• You must seek professional qualified practitioner care for access to these products

• These companies follow strict safety and quality procedures

• Formulas are supported by scientific research and clinical trials

• Products contain the best form of nutrient to maximise absorption to increase the effectiveness

• Contains the therapeutic dose of nutrients/herbs

• Can be more expensive

I hope this has helped you to gain clarity on why the cheaper supplements or the product with the prettiest packing may not necessarily be the best option.

Would you like personal supplement advice?

I offer 1:1 mini online consultations (30 minutes) that focus on reviewing your current supplements and offering you advice on what may be best. If you would like to book in please click here

If you think you may need a more in-depth consultation about your overall health, please click here to book in an initial consultation (60 -90 minutes).