Taking Supplements for Optimal Health
“As an OB/GYN, I’m often asked about the best ways to maintain overall health. One of the most effective strategies I recommend to my patients is the incorporation of dietary supplements,” says Dr. Fliedner.
Supplements are a concentrated source of vitamins, minerals, herbs, and other beneficial compounds that can support various bodily functions, from immune system health to energy production and beyond. By incorporating supplements into a balanced lifestyle, individuals can ensure they’re getting the essential nutrients their bodies require to thrive.
Moreover, supplements can be particularly beneficial for those with specific dietary restrictions, such as vegetarians or vegans, who may have a harder time meeting their nutritional needs through food alone. They can also be useful for individuals with certain medical conditions or those taking medications that may deplete specific nutrients. In these cases, supplements can help restore the balance and support overall health and wellness.
In this article, we’ll discuss the importance of supplements, how to effectively include them in your diet, and their benefits for hormonal health. Plus, we’ll introduce “The Daily Dose,” my personalized daily supplement recommendation to support optimal health. We’ll also share trusted sources and provide easy access to purchase these supplements directly from our website.
- The World of Supplements and Their Benefits
- Our Bodies Need Supplements
- The Value of Prescription Supplements
- Incorporating Prescription Supplements Into Your Diet
- The Benefits of Prescription Supplements to Hormonal Health
- Dr. Fliedner’s Supplement Recommendations
The World of Supplements and Their Benefits
The variety of dietary supplements available today is vast, multifaceted, and somewhat confusing. With numerous options to support different aspects of health, it can be challenging to navigate the choices. Whether it’s vitamins, minerals, herbs, or botanicals, each type of supplement offers distinct benefits for the body.
Let’s look at some of the more familiar supplements.
Multivitamins are a popular choice as they provide a comprehensive blend of essential vitamins and minerals in a single supplement. These can be particularly beneficial for individuals who struggle to meet their daily nutrient needs through diet alone, such as older adults or those with limited dietary variety.
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil supplements, have been extensively researched for their ability to support heart health, reduce inflammation, and promote brain function. These essential fats play a crucial role in maintaining overall wellness and can be especially beneficial for individuals who do not consume enough fatty fish in their diets.
Probiotics, which are live beneficial bacteria and yeasts, can be incredibly helpful in supporting a healthy gut microbiome. By replenishing the good bacteria in the digestive system, probiotics can improve digestion, boost immune function, and even contribute to better mental health.
Antioxidant-rich supplements, such as those containing vitamins C and E, can help neutralize free radicals and protect the body’s cells from oxidative stress. This can have far-reaching benefits, from supporting the immune system to promoting healthy skin and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Our Bodies Need Supplements
While many people believe they can get all the necessary supplements from their diet, our modern diets often fall short. This is particularly true for women who have unique nutritional needs due to the various stages of life, such as menstruation, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and menopause, all of which can influence hormone levels.
Many of us believe we are eating a healthy diet, yet we may still be missing essential nutrients necessary for our bodies to function optimally. This lack of crucial nutrients can lead to nutritional deficiencies, which significantly increase the risk of diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. To prevent these serious health conditions, it’s vital to ensure our diet is rich in the essential nutrients our bodies need.
According to a study published in the Journal of Preventative Medicine and Hygiene, ”dietary supplement is one of the major solutions for managing micronutrient deficiencies, as it can increase the under-consumed nutrients intake within a population and fill the nutritional gaps.”
The Value of Prescription Supplements
Prescription vitamins and supplements differ from over-the-counter (OTC) options because they are tailored to meet specific health needs. They are often of higher quality, better absorbed by the body, and can be customized to address particular deficiencies or health concerns.
As an example, a prescription vitamin might contain a more bioavailable form of folic acid, which is crucial for women of childbearing age, or a specific combination of vitamins and minerals designed to support bone health during menopause.
Many doctors prescribe prescription vitamins and supplements for their invaluable benefits:
Targeted Nutritional Support. Unlike general multivitamins, prescription vitamins are formulated based on your specific health needs. This means they can provide more precise support for issues like hormone regulation, bone health, and immune function.
Enhanced Absorption. Prescription supplements often use superior forms of nutrients that are more easily absorbed by the body. For example, methylated B vitamins are more bioavailable, especially for individuals with certain genetic mutations that affect vitamin B metabolism.
Consistency in Quality. Prescription vitamins are subject to stricter regulations than OTC supplements. This ensures that you’re getting a product that has been thoroughly tested for purity, potency, and effectiveness.
Prevention and Management of Deficiencies. Many women are unaware they have vitamin deficiencies until they experience symptoms like fatigue, hair loss, or irregular periods. Prescription vitamins can prevent these deficiencies or help manage them more effectively.
Support During Life Stages: Different stages of life require different nutritional support. For example, women who are pregnant or trying to conceive might need higher levels of folic acid and iron, while women going through menopause may benefit from vitamins that support bone density and heart health.
Incorporating Prescription Supplements Into Your Diet
Incorporating prescription supplements into your diet is straightforward, but can be more challenging for those of us with busy schedules. Often remembering what to take when and taking time to replenish supplements can be a hassle. Fortunately, Dr. Fliedner understands these barriers and offers solutions to these barriers on his website.
We offer some suggestions below to help you make supplements a consistent and healthy part of your daily routine.
Consult With Your Healthcare Provider. Before starting any new vitamin regimen, it’s essential to consult with your OB/GYN or primary care provider. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including blood tests, to determine which vitamins you need and in what dosages. Reach out to our office to schedule an appointment with Dr. Fliedner.
Timing and Dosage. Some vitamins are best taken at specific times of the day or with certain foods. For example, fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K should be taken with meals containing healthy fats to enhance absorption. Water-soluble vitamins like C and B-complex can be taken on an empty stomach or with a light snack.
Consistency is Key. To see the full benefits, it’s crucial to take your vitamins consistently. Set a daily routine, such as taking your vitamins at the same time every day, to help establish a habit. We also recommend a few mobile apps to help. A couple popular apps are Medisafe or MyTherapy.
Dietary Integration. While prescription supplements are crucial, they should complement a balanced diet rich in whole foods. Incorporate a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats into your meals to provide a broad spectrum of nutrients. Prescription supplements can help fill in any gaps.
Monitoring and Adjusting. Your nutritional needs may change over time, so it’s important to regularly check in with your healthcare provider. They can adjust your prescription as needed based on changes in your health, lifestyle, or life stage.
The Benefits of Prescription Supplements to Hormonal Health
Hormones play a pivotal role in a woman’s health, affecting everything from mood and energy levels to reproductive function and metabolism. Balanced hormones are crucial for maintaining overall well-being, and nutrition is one of the most effective tools to support hormonal health.
Here’s how prescription supplements can specifically help in managing hormonal balance:
Supporting Thyroid Function. The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate metabolism. Vitamins like iodine and selenium, often included in prescription formulas, are essential for healthy thyroid function.
Balancing Reproductive Hormones. Vitamins such as B6, B12, and folate are crucial for synthesizing and regulating hormones like estrogen and progesterone. These vitamins are particularly important for women who are trying to conceive or who suffer from conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Reducing Inflammation. Chronic inflammation can disrupt hormone production and lead to conditions such as insulin resistance, which is linked to both PCOS and type 2 diabetes. Prescription vitamins that contain antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, can help reduce inflammation and support hormonal balance.
Bone Health During Menopause. As estrogen levels decline during menopause, women are at increased risk for osteoporosis. Prescription vitamins that include calcium, vitamin D, and magnesium can help maintain bone density and reduce the risk of fractures.
Mood and Energy Levels. B vitamins, particularly B6 and B12, play a key role in producing neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which regulate mood. A deficiency in these vitamins can lead to symptoms of depression and fatigue. Prescription vitamins can ensure you’re getting the right amounts to support mental well-being.
Managing PMS and Menstrual Symptoms. Many women experience symptoms like bloating, cramps, and mood swings before and during their periods. Prescription vitamins that include magnesium and vitamin B6 can help alleviate these symptoms by supporting muscle relaxation and neurotransmitter balance.
The Daily Dose
Dr. Fliedner’s Supplement Recommendations
“I’m thrilled to offer The Daily Dose, a specially formulated prescription of daily supplements, for free download on my website,” says Dr. Fliedner.
As an OB/GYN committed to delivering the highest standard of care, Dr. Fliedner has dedicated years to testing and researching the most effective ingredients for enhancing women’s health. Through this extensive work, he has meticulously curated a daily supplement regimen from three trusted sources, designed to meet the unique nutritional needs of women at every stage of life.
You can download a PDF of “The Daily Dose” supplements, knowing that each product has been carefully selected for its superior quality and proven effectiveness.
Resources:
Dietary Supplement Fact Sheets
Dr. Fliedner’s Supplement Guide
Final Thoughts
Incorporating prescription supplements into your diet is a powerful way to support your overall health and well-being, particularly when it comes to hormonal balance. They are essential components of a comprehensive health plan tailored to your individual needs.
By working closely with your OB/GYN, you can develop a personalized vitamin regimen that addresses your specific health concerns, whether you’re looking to boost energy levels, support reproductive health, or manage the symptoms of menopause.
Remember, while prescription supplements can make a significant difference, they work best when combined with a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep are also crucial for maintaining hormonal health. With the right approach, you can take control of your health and enjoy the benefits of balanced hormones and improved overall wellness.
If you’re considering adding prescription supplements to your diet, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Fliedner to discuss your options. Your health is worth the investment, and the right supplements can be a key part of your journey to optimal well-being.
Dr. Thomas Fliedner, menopause specialist at North Texas Vitality.
Dr. Fliedner is a Board-certified OB-GYN, and is associated with the following professional organizations:
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)
- The North American Menopause Society (NAMS)
- Institute of Functional Medicine (IFM)
- BioTE Medical Certified Provider
- American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine (A4M)
- Age Management Medicine Group (AMMG)
- International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM)
- Texas Medical Association (TMA)
- American Medical Association (AMA)
To request an appointment with Dr. Fliedner, call our office at (469) 455-1665 or fill out the form below.