Are Supplements Right for You?

1. Determine the main goals of your supplement regimen.
   • Goals related to your health typically ensure better consistency and results.
2. Always ask your health care professional if the supplements are right for you.
   • Your health care professional has access to your medical history and will know potential interactive effects between supplements and medications.
3. For more detailed information, aim to consult with credible sources with established expertise and credentials.
   • For example, a registered dietician (RD, RDN, or PDt), a physician (MD), or a scientist (PhD) may be able to provide important information about factors that may affect your supplement regimen other than your personal goals (Figure 1).
     
     Figure 1. Factors that determine your nutritional needs that may be used to optimize your supplement regimen.
   • Other healthcare and fitness professionals with expertise in clinical and/or sports nutrition may also provide useful information.
     1. These may include certified strength coaches, personal trainers, or exercise physiologists with certifications from NCSF, ACSM, or CSEP.
   • Fitness bloggers, celebrities, and other media personalities may sound convincing, but they are likely not experts in training methods, nutrition, or supplements.

While you may choose to start a supplement regimen immediately, we suggest that you invest some time upfront determining your goals and needs, and consult with an expert for best results.

For the sake of safety and efficacy, only use licensed, quality-approved, and research-proven products when you embark on your journey!

In our next blog we will discuss the most important things to look for when purchasing your first supplements.