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In an article written by Chris Kresser, licensed acupuncturist and functional medicine practitioner states the case that our bodies are not made for our modern world so most people lack the needed nutrients to keep disease from thriving in the body.
Examples given are increased exposure to toxins (on our food, in the air, on our skin, etc.), a decrease in nutrient dense soils, an overuse of antibiotics and other medications, and a change in day to day activities (sitting more, moving less) all contribute to our bodies operating under nutrient deficits creating the need for dietary supplements.
The Kushi Institute of Becket, Massachusetts, has studied USDA nutrient data from 1975 and 1997, and uncovered a disturbing trend:
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Average calcium levels in 12 fresh vegetables have declined 27 percent
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Iron levels have dropped 37 percent
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Vitamin A levels dropped 21 percent
As a result, getting the nutrients for optimal bodily functioning and health is difficult even when it’s our best intention to consume the best quality food.
Are Supplements Necessary?
How Safe are supplements?
Let me start by saying that the FDA warns against making therapeutic claims on products that haven't recieved FDA approval. Most supplements do not fit this criteria. It's also important to not self-diagnose any health condition. Work with your health care provider to determine how to best achieve optimal health and before taking a supplement.
The Office of Dietary Supplements, a division of the National Institute of Health does state on their FAQ page, that if you are going to buy supplements, what you should be aware of. Note that quality is #1. Quality affects potency, reliability of top notch ingredients and absorbability.
Rest assured, Health Strong begins all therapies with nutrition and lifestyle, first and foremost, and recommends supplements as an adjunct to therapy. If they are recommended, Health Strong only sells professional grade supplements, with the highest quality testing standards, without added fillers and are free of the most common food allergens (gluten, soy, wheat, dairy). Note: Some of the supplements recommended from our office do have the stamp of approval from the FDA. Also, beware of re-purchasing the same supplements online because you can't guarantee what you're getting, if they've been tampered with and how long they've been on the shelf. Quality of supplements affect break down, absorbancy and utilization in the body.
Resources:
http://chriskresser.com/are-supplements-really-necessary
http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/soil-depletion-and-nutrition-loss/
