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But My Multi-Vitamin Covers All The Bases...
I’m sure you’ve heard it before.
Most likely when you’re trying to figure out some supplements to take to get a bit healthier, maybe add some benefits to a new workout routine, or your favorite fitness YouTuber just dropped a grocery list of supplements you’re definitely deficient in…
“This ___ did ___ for me in ___ days/weeks,” or “I started seeing results in ___, you need ___.”
There are tons of different iterations, methods, and calls to action used by influencers; and ultimately, companies.
If you’ve been reading my articles for a while, you’ll know by now to avoid anyone who claims training or nutrition protocols or choices in absolutes.
And I’m not saying that you shouldn’t take supplements, or that anyone promoting them is evil.
What I am saying:
They are not as important as you are led to believe. It’s almost so ingrained in us by now that, at times, I still catch myself giving feedback about certain supplements someone should take… as long as they ask, of course.
What I’m getting at is that outside of actual doctor-prescribed supplement protocols, you’re often just shooting in the wind.
Now, some things are a little easier to give the okay on… Living in winter months or not getting outside very often? Well, I’d say you most likely should start a vitamin D routine.
And understandably, you’re probably agreeing with me right now; because it makes sense. Right?
But why is the first thought we have, when considering a deficiency, to immediately recommend a supplement?
Because last time I checked… most milk (animal or plant-based), cereal, yogurt, and even orange juice are fortified with vitamin D.
Or look at eggs and most fish; especially wild salmon, which are rich in vitamin D.
And honestly, if you have the means to go outside in the sunshine, take a walk once in a while. Not only is sun great for you, but the exercise will be as well.
I’m mainly writing this because I want to bring up a couple key points; and I promise I’ll wrap this up.
Whole-food options and lifestyle changes are, by far, the better option.
Example: Vitamin C.
Low doses (≤200 mg) of supplementation were comparable to what’s obtained from fruits and vegetables.
Beyond that, absorption dropped off with supplements (think: expensive pee).
Supplementation spiked vitamin C levels for a short time, whereas whole foods provided more consistent levels that were used more effectively by the body.
I’ll leave out all the flavonoids and fiber that come with whole foods as well.
Regardless of the supplement, the majority will have far lower absorption and utilization than nutrients from whole foods.
Stop hunting for “quick fixes” or “benefits.” Learn how to apply patience and consistency.
All great and meaningful things come from patience, work, and consistency.
Before you fill your Amazon cart with a bunch of random supplements, take a minute and figure out the best lifestyle changes you can make instead.
Supplements quite literally should not be replacing food.
Take the ad I’ve attached to this newsletter. You should not be buying a greens product if you have not yet figured out how to eat, at minimum, a few servings of both vegetables and fruits daily.
Green powders and supplements should be used on off-days when you’re overly busy and there’s just no way—or as a small addition on top of your normal intake to support recovery.
Stop relying on this stuff.
Also, more protein isn’t the answer. If you’re feeling sluggish, tired, or demotivated, check the basics first:
-sleep
-stress
-diet/food consumption
-exercise
“No great thing is created suddenly, any more than a bunch of grapes or a fig. If you tell me that you desire a fig, I answer you that there must be time. Let it first blossom, then bear fruit, then ripen.”
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MINDSET
Build your world through patients, work, and consistency.
Buy and consume what you’d like.
All I ask is that you take a minute to think of a better alternative.
And yes, you can do this without being a holistic hippie.
Train smart, but never forget to train hard.