The shelves of pharmacies and drug stores are brimming with a multitude of supplements, presenting a baffling array of options. Many individuals grapple with deciphering which supplements are truly beneficial for their health and which might just be a drain on their wallets.
This confusion is exacerbated by the lack of stringent regulation within the nutraceutical industry in the United States. Numerous studies have revealed that some products contain far less of the specified nutrients than what their labels claim.
Regrettably, the standard American diet has contributed to a pervasive issue of micronutrient deficiencies, significantly impacting our overall health. Additionally, several commonly used medications deplete our bodies of essential vitamins and nutrients.
For instance, medications prescribed for acid reflux and gastritis—such as H2 blockers (like Pepcid), PPIs (such as Protonix), and antacids (like Tums)—result in the depletion of folate, B12, vitamin C, calcium, iron, and magnesium. Antibiotics, Metformin, and anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen deplete folate, a crucial co-factor in numerous cellular reactions. Notoriously, birth control pills also lead to the depletion of micronutrients including magnesium, B6, B12, vitamin C, zinc, and selenium.
The average American spends a staggering $49,000 on supplements over their lifetime, yet the efficacy of these purchases remains unclear.
Addressing this dilemma, the Gajer Practice has joined forces with a lab offering a timely solution. Cell Science Systems presents a personalized test that evaluates individual micronutrient needs in a unique manner. Rather than simply comparing blood levels of certain micronutrients to a generalized “normal” population average, this lab methodically reintroduces one micronutrient at a time into a patient’s blood, observing the pace of cellular reactions in a test tube. If the micronutrient enhances cellular activity, it’s likely to be beneficial for that specific person. The same methodology is applied to antioxidants, assessing their impact in vitro on a blood sample. A comprehensive report is generated, outlining the specific micronutrients and antioxidants that may significantly benefit your body.
Taking this insight a step further, we collaborate with Vitamin Lab to curate a custom supplement comprised of only the highest quality ingredients, tailored to meet your body’s precise needs.
If you’re keen on discovering more about your micronutrient requirements, please schedule a wellness visit here: