Supplements are a great way to boost your consumption of vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients. Before taking them, know first whether you need to supplement your diet. If you do, know how to pick the right supplements that are best for your health.

What Should You Know About Supplements?

Who Needs Supplements?

Those with unique dietary needs or health conditions may need certain supplements. For example, pregnant women typically need folic acid and other vitamins to give their growing fetus everything it needs. Athletes may need extra protein and amino acids because of the unusual strain they put on their bodies. If you have a special diet, such as vegan or gluten-free, supplements can help you get the nutrients that are tough to get due to your dietary limitations.

As people age, their bodies have more difficulty absorbing certain nutrients. This is why older people may supplement their diet with extra calcium or vitamin D. If you want to know what your body might need, you can have a nutritionist or doctor test your blood.

Which Are the Right Supplements for You?

There are many different supplements on the market, and they are not all equal. Read the label carefully before you buy anything. Begin with the ingredients list; if there is anything on the active or inactive ingredients list that you do not recognize, then research it. Some products may have additives that reduce the supplement’s efficacy because they block your body from properly absorbing it. If you have any allergies, look for a label that says it is “free from” your allergen. Check the dosage amount as well; one supplement may look cheaper than another, but it may have a significantly lower dosage. This will cost you more long-term as you must take more of it to achieve the desired effect.

Gates Pharmacy offers a wide selection of high-quality vitamins, minerals, and other supplements in Elyria, OH. Their knowledgeable pharmacist can help you select the right product for your unique needs. If your doctor has provided a prescription for something you cannot buy over-the-counter, they also offer prescription refills. Start shopping on their website and call the drugstore at (440) 329-7300 for assistance.