Supplements and nutraceuticals
We recommend supplements to correct something your history or testing has identified, so what you take is chosen for you rather than picked off a shelf.
Choose your side
The honest version, before the detail
Everything below expands on these points, with sources.
- 01A supplement is recommended when history or testing indicates a specific reason, not offered as a general wellness package.
- 02Supplements interact with prescription medicines, so bring everything you take including anything bought over the counter.
- 03Dietary supplements are not reviewed by the FDA for safety and effectiveness before they are marketed.
- 04Where the evidence for a supplement is weak, we will tell you rather than sell it to you.
Targeted, not routine
A supplement is recommended when history or testing indicates a specific deficiency or a specific clinical reason. Iron, vitamin D and B12 are common examples where a measurable deficiency has a measurable correction.
Supplements interact with prescription medicines. Bring everything you take, including anything bought over the counter, so interactions can be checked properly.
Where the evidence for a supplement is weak, we will say that rather than sell it to you.
How supplements are regulated
Dietary supplements are regulated differently from prescription medicines, which is why we choose brands carefully and check everything against the medicines you already take.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Benefits, risks, alternatives and candidacy
This appears before the booking button on purpose. You should be able to decide with the risks in front of you.
What it may do
- Correcting a documented deficiency can improve the symptoms caused by that deficiency.
- Where no deficiency exists, benefit is unlikely and the expense is avoidable.
Risks and side effects
- Interactions with prescription medicines, which is why a full medication list is required.
- Some vitamins and minerals are harmful in excess, particularly fat soluble vitamins and iron.
- Product quality varies between manufacturers because pre-market review does not apply.
Alternatives, including doing nothing
- Dietary change, which addresses most common deficiencies.
- Treating the underlying cause of a deficiency, which may be more important than replacing it.
- Taking nothing, which is the right answer when testing does not support a supplement.
Who may not be a candidate
- Pregnancy, kidney or liver disease, and certain medication combinations change what is appropriate. Some supplements must be stopped before procedures or surgery.
Where this information comes from
Primary sources only: regulator publications, specialty society patient guidance and manufacturer information. Not marketing pages.
Ask whether a supplement is indicated for you
Bring your full list, including anything over the counter, and we will check it properly.