This is an excellent question, and the answer is yes – and no.  The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates dietary supplements differently from medications.  They regulate quality control and good manufacturing processes but do not ensure standardization of the active ingredients or efficacy.  Supplements are regulated as a food, rather than a medication.   

Ideally, nutrients should come from food.  In instances where our body needs a boost or we have deficiencies caused by medications, medical treatments, dietary behaviors, etc. we may need temporary or long term supplementation.  Because we have to rely on manufacturers to source high quality raw material, test for heavy metals, mold mycotoxins, potency, and residual chemicals used in the manufacturing process – it is important to purchase therapeutic quality supplements from vetted manufacturers found in the online dispensaries.  

Much like medications, supplements can have contraindications (reasons for not taking them) or conflict with one another.  Having a healthcare provider with access to the Natural Medicines Database is important to compare medications and supplements with one another, look for nutrient deficiencies caused by either medications or supplements, and create a customized plan for you.  We have you covered, and can provide this to you at your appointment.