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Last week we talked about factors that impact whether you should or shouldn’t take a supplement. However, even when that’s decided it can feel like a lot to choose a specific product.

So let’s break that down.

Canadian Regulations On Supplements

Thankfully in Canada, there is regulation of supplements through Health Canada. Manufacturers need to apply to Health Canada to receive an NPN number confirming that the product has been reviewed and authorized by Health Canada and meets Canadian standards for safety and quality when used as directed on the label.

The rules are NOT the same in the USA as the industry there is known to be poorly regulated and there are studies looking at herbal products especially finding that many don’t contain the dose of the ingredients implied on the label.

For this reason, my recommendation is always to purchase through a healthfood store, Fullscript, online Canadian healthfood stores, or actual Canadian stores, versus through third party sellers such as Amazon. Amazon has a higher risk of American unregulated products as well as product tampering.

It’s just not worth it!

In terms of the actual product. The brand matters much less than what the product contains. I’m looking more at the DOSE and the FORM of the nutrient than anything else.

vitamin d

For Vitamin D, for example, as long as we are getting the correct dose and taking it in a gel cap or drop form, most products will be quite similar.

Tablet forms are not quite as well absorbed.

vitamin b12

For B12 we want the methylcobalamin version in a sublingual form for best absorption.

magnesium:

For magnesium, we may prefer a bisglycinate for one person, or a citrate for another depending on what we’re treating. There are lots of brands that will make options that are good for all of these nutrients

Other Factors To Consider:

Your ability to take something also matters! If you hate swallowing things, we’ll choose a liquid or chewable form to make it easier to take it.

One product we’ll always discuss in more detail is an omega 3 fatty acid. Labels are quite misleading as we’re looking at the dose of EPA and DHA, and not just the total omega 3. We also want to ensure there is no mercury contamination, so choosing a product that does third party testing for this nutrient is important.

These are all things we discuss in a visit. If you’re going to spend time and $ on something we want the best option! I love it when people bring their products in so I can see exactly what they’re taking and advise from there.

Summary

Buy from a reputable source such as a Canadian health food store or Fullscript so we ensure it has an NPN and no tampering.

Look at the dose and form of the nutrient when purchasing. And choose a version you’re likely to actually take!

If you’re looking for support in finding what supplements could work for you, book a visit today!

book a visit today

Disclaimer:

This content is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, naturopathic doctor, or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or health concern. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read here.

Hi, I’m Dr. Janine, ND

I’m a Naturopathic Doctor currently practicing in Guelph, Ontario, Canada.
I truly believe that our enjoyment of life is closely tied to how we feel physically. When we’re healthy, we can take on anything. But when we feel off, even the simplest tasks become overwhelming. I’ve been through hormonal shifts, sleepless nights as a parent, and the stress of balancing everything. But I also know that with the right strategy, we can go from surviving to thriving—and create a healthy, thriving family in the process.
I look forward to meeting you soon.
***- Dr. Janine, ND***