To supplement, or not to supplement? —That is the question. This is the topic of interest that I occasionally get asked from some of my clients as well as others whom I encounter. They hear about all the great things that a specific vitamin or mineral can do, and immediately go purchase the supplement form of said vitamin or mineral, to reap the benefits.
In fact, just two weeks ago, a family member had seen a video on social media that talked about how a young woman used a specific mineral to grow her hair to the length, thickness, and volume that it was. That same family member then asked about my thoughts on that specific mineral, but in supplement form. Granted— the young woman’s hair from the video looked healthy and amazing. However, in many instances, there is usually more to hair growth and overall body health improvements, for that matter, than with the sole use of supplements. Besides, if you’ve read my Vitamin D blog, you’d recall me saying that dietary supplements can be very helpful. However, not as a replacement for a good diet, but as insurance. Therefore, a good balanced and colorful diet should be your first choice of offense, rather than any given supplement.
So, let’s get right into it and list a few vitamins and minerals that are commonly taken in supplement form, along with their natural food sources and/or herbs where they are found.
Broccoli, kale, beans, legumes, dried mushrooms, pumpkin and sesame seeds), spinach and whole grains (whole wheat).
Vitamins/Minerals listed with their Natural Food and Herbal Sources
Therefore, I recommend a good balanced and colorful diet to be your first choice to promote your targeted or overall health concern, before you jump straight into taking supplements. Supplements are great, but are there to add value to what your already colorful and nutrient dense diet is missing; not to replace it. So to answer the question, to supplement or not to supplement— try asking yourself that question after being consistent with your nutrient rich and colorful diet. Your answer just might change from what it is today 😉
Rob Nelson, M.S., CHN
Certified Holistic Nutritionist | Wellness Coach | Pre/Postnatal Fitness Specialist
My journey into holistic nutrition began with a personal transformation that would ultimately reshape not just my body, but my entire life's purpose. Eight years ago, I embarked on an ambitious 90-day raw vegan cleanse that would become the catalyst for my career in wellness. Watching my body shed 30 pounds, experiencing unprecedented mental clarity, and witnessing my skin transform to a natural glow, I realized I had discovered something profound – the healing power of whole, plant-based foods.
This wasn't just about weight loss; it was about discovering optimal health through natural means. Armed with my Master of Science degree and an insatiable curiosity about human nutrition, I devoted myself to understanding the intricate relationship between food, body, and performance. I became my own case study, undertaking various cleansing and fasting programs 2-3 times annually, meticulously documenting what worked and what didn't.
As a certified Holistic Nutritionist, I approach wellness through a comprehensive lens, understanding that true health encompasses physical, mental, and emotional well-being. My background in Pre/Postnatal Fitness has taught me the importance of adaptive nutrition – how different life stages require different approaches to nourishment.
What sets my approach apart is the blend of scientific rigor with real-world experience. Over eight years of plant-based living, I've refined my understanding of cleansing and nutrition through both academic study and personal experimentation. This 10-day smoothie cleanse isn't just another program – it's the culmination of years of research, personal trials, and successful client transformations.
Initially, I shared my knowledge informally, creating personalized meal plans for friends and family. Their successes – from increased energy and better sleep to improved digestion and sustained weight management – convinced me that these insights needed to reach a broader audience. The positive feedback was unanimous: this approach was different because it was both effective and sustainable.
Today, through NelNutrition, I've helped hundreds of clients reconnect with their bodies and discover the transformative power of proper nutrition. This cleanse represents the best of what I've learned – a carefully crafted program that combines scientific principles with practical application.
What you'll find in this guide isn't just theory – it's proven methodology backed by both scientific research and real-world results. I've done the experimentation, made the mistakes, and refined the process so you don't have to. Whether you're new to cleansing or a seasoned health enthusiast, this program offers a structured, effective path to renewed health and vitality.
My mission is simple: to empower you with the knowledge and tools to transform your health, just as I transformed mine. This cleanse is more than just a program – it's your first step toward a sustainable, vibrant, plant-powered lifestyle.
Join me on this journey to discover what your body is truly capable of when nourished properly. Your transformation begins now.
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