How to find the best natural supplements

The world of natural supplements can be complex to navigate, with countless options available and an overwhelming amount of advice online. At Nourishing Apothecary, our team of experienced Naturopaths and wellness practitioners are here to simplify this journey for you. We've brought together our collective expertise to guide you through choosing supplements that will genuinely benefit your health.

Understanding quality matters: insights from Jaime Chew, founder, Naturopath and Homeopath

"The most important thing to understand about supplements is that not all products are created equal," explains Jaime Chew, founder of Nourishing Apothecary. "Quality and sourcing make an enormous difference in how effective a supplement will be for your body."

As a Naturopath and Homeopath with extensive experience in women's health and fertility, Jaime emphasises looking for:

• Third-party testing and quality certifications

• Transparent ingredient sourcing

• Clear labelling of active ingredients and their concentrations

• Products free from unnecessary fillers and additives

"At Nourishing Apothecary, we carefully curate our supplement range based on these criteria," Jaime notes. "Every product we stock is naturopath-approved and chosen for its efficacy and quality."

The role of personalisation in supplement selection

Mel Gearing, our Naturopath and Medical Herbalist with a Masters in Health Science, emphasises the importance of personalisation when choosing supplements. "What works wonderfully for one person might not be the best choice for another," she explains. "Your supplementation needs depend on various factors, including:

• Your current health status and specific concerns

• Any medications you're taking

• Your diet and lifestyle

• Your health goals

• Your body's unique requirements

"This is why we always recommend speaking with a qualified practitioner before starting any new supplements," Mel adds. "We can help identify exactly what your body needs and ensure you're taking supplements that will truly benefit your health."

Natural vs synthetic: understanding the difference

Lainie McTackett, our Naturopath and Homeopath with over 14 years of experience, shares her perspective on choosing between natural and synthetic supplements. "Natural supplements are typically better absorbed and utilised by the body," she explains. "Look for supplements that source their nutrients from whole food sources where possible."

Key indicators of high-quality natural supplements include:

• Ingredients derived from whole food sources

• Minimal processing methods

• No artificial colours or preservatives

• Bioavailable forms of nutrients

Supporting specific health needs

Toni Baker, our experienced Naturopath specialising in women's health and hormonal balance, emphasises the importance of choosing supplements that align with your specific health goals. "Different health concerns require different approaches to supplementation," she explains. "For example:

• Hormonal balance might require specific herb combinations and mineral support

• Stress management often benefits from adaptogenic herbs and B vitamins

• Immune support typically needs different nutrients depending on whether you're looking for acute or long-term support"

The importance of timing and combinations

Danielle Critchell, our Clinical Naturopath focusing on women's health and fertility, shares her expertise on supplement timing and combinations. "It's not just about what supplements you take, but when and how you take them," she explains. "Some supplements work better:

• Taken with food

• On an empty stomach

• At specific times of day

• In particular combinations with other nutrients

• Away from certain medications or other supplements"

Making informed choices

When selecting natural supplements, our team recommends considering:

1. Quality and sourcing: Choose products from reputable manufacturers who are transparent about their sourcing and manufacturing processes.

2. Practitioner guidance: Work with qualified practitioners who can help identify your specific needs and recommend appropriate supplements.

3. Holistic approach: Remember that supplements should complement, not replace, a healthy diet and lifestyle.

4. Individual needs: Consider your unique health status, goals, and any existing conditions or medications.

5. Long-term strategy: Think about how supplements fit into your overall health and wellness journey.

Getting started with supplements

If you're considering adding supplements to your wellness routine, we recommend:

1. Booking a consultation with one of our experienced practitioners to discuss your specific needs

2. Starting with basic supplements that address your primary health concerns

3. Monitoring how your body responds and adjusting as needed

4. Regular review of your supplement regime to ensure it continues to serve your health goals

Remember, natural supplements can be powerful tools for supporting your health, but they work best as part of a holistic approach to wellness that includes proper nutrition, regular movement, and stress management.

Want to learn more about choosing the right supplements for your needs?

Book a discovery call with one of our experienced practitioners at Nourishing Apothecary. We're here to support you on your journey to optimal health, naturally.