Supplements and Diet

I have come to value testing 6 key nutrients as a tool to better understand a persons health issues and symptoms. The 6 nutrients I most often test are magnesium, folate, vitamin b12, iron, vitamin D, and zinc. I think of these as clues to learning more about underlying deficiencies that could be contributing to a patient's symptoms. These are not typically ordered in a routine physical.

In my approach, I often use supplements to begin correcting deficiencies while also correcting underlying reasons the patient may have become deficient in these nutrients. In addition, it’s important to incorporate the foods that contain these nutrients and improve digestive health for optimal absorption, as part of a long term solution. 

Below are explanations of what each of the key nutrients do in your body, possible signs of deficiency, and how to go about optimizing your levels for better health including some specific supplement recommendations.

Magnesium

My patients frequently come back talking about how much magnesium has made a difference in how they are feeling. They report improvement in areas from sleep, to digestion, to mood and energy. If I had to pick one supplement that I most commonly recommend, it would be magic magnesium! 

VITAMIN B12

Vitamin B12 has always been a popular supplement for mood and beauty. Patients often don't realize they are at risk for deficiency because of digestive issues and medications which can interfere with absorption.

Folate

Folate is one of the most crucial vitamins in your body. It helps build your DNA, neurotransmitters like serotonin, and your immune cells. It's best known for ensuring healthy pregnancy, but also is vital for your mood, energy, and ability to fight infection. 

IRON

Many patients have been told they are iron deficient. What most people don't realize is how much this impacts how they feel everyday.  From exercise to metabolism, our bodies work better with optimal iron.

vitamin D

Vitamin D deficiency is extremely common. Deficiency is associated with immune problems including frequently illness, autoimmune disease and allergies, poor bone health, and low thyroid function.

Zinc

Zinc is an important nutrient which assists the body’s immune function, hormone production, skin maintenance, and digestive health. Zinc testing is useful in patents who get frequent viral illnesses, who are seeking fertility, who have thyroid disease, acne, or digestive problems.