Do I need Supplements

Yes, no, maybe! Honestly there is no easy to answer to this. As I like to continue to stress, the fundamental principle of naturopathic nutrition is that everyone is different and must be treated so.

However it is clear that in modern society today, it can be increasingly challenging to ensure that each of us is getting the right amounts of the most crucial vitamins and minerals from food alone. This is why supplements can often bridge this essential gap and why at The Nutrition Spa we often advocate the undertaking an appropriate supplement regime alongside healthy eating.

Why do I need all these vitamins & minerals?

The body requires many different vitamins and minerals that are crucial for both healthy development and preventing disease. Particularly, in more vulnerable populations such as the young and old. These vitamins and minerals are often referred to as micronutrients. Most aren’t produced naturally in the body, so you have to get them from your diet. Many of them are dependent on each other so if your diet is lacking a particular vitamin, then the chances are this means that another one won't work as it should, leading to ongoing deficiencies.

Your body is incredible. Mother nature carefully gave each vitamin and mineral a specific role to play to promote optimal health. For example the mineral magnesium is responsible for an incredible 300 biochemical functions in the body including regulating your heart beat and nerve function. Did you know that an estimated 80% of the UK population is deficient in it leading to negative symptoms such as, muscle aches or spasms, poor digestion, anxiety, and trouble sleeping. Sound familiar? And that's just one of numerous minerals we need for good health.

So what's going wrong?

Our ancestors used to eat foods in their natural state straight from the earth or as hunted and gathered season by season. Untouched by pesticides and never genetically modified, these foods would have been nutrient dense and free from chemicals. Even our grandparents were used to eating a diet that would have been nutrient rich by eating and by today’s standards would be considered organic.

Now, we mainly consume foods that have undergone extensive processing and been packaged some time (possibly weeks or months) before we pick them off the shelves and cook them in our homes. We also rarely know or understand what has been added, removed or changed in the process of bringing the food to market.

Vitamin deficient conditions are widespread such as Vitamin D, Iron and B12 and on the increase and Victorian conditions such as rickets are on the rise.

Micronutrient deficiencies can cause short-term symptoms and long-term health complications therefore its important to ensure you are keeping your levels optimum.

How can I find out if I am deficient?

A comprehensive analysis into your diet will give a lot of insights into possible triggers and drivers.

Functional testing is also a very beneficial way to quickly find out what the issue is so we can strategically put a plan in place to address the imbalance.

We can advise on what tests you may need and also work alongside your doctor in advising tests that can establish current levels.

And if I am?

We can help you cut through the wealth of products out there to provide high quality and effective supplements to start your path to wellness.