10 Vitamins and Supplements You Shouldn’t Live Without

Meet John Dempster, a licensed (and handsome) Naturopathic Doctor who practices in Toronto, and regularly contributes to Blisstree about health and wellness issues. Last time, the good doctor schooled us about diseases and conditions that Naturopathic Medicine can help prevent or even cure. Today he returns with a Top 10 list of vitamins and supplements he cannot live without – and neither should you. Find The Dempster Clinic here.

As my patients know, I’m a huge advocate for customized medicine based on each person’s unique biochemical makeup.  However, there are some supplements from which virtually everyone can benefit. Here’s to your health.

1.              Whole Food Multivitamin
Multivitamins are a dime a dozen these days. The classic one-a-day just doesn’t meet the demands of today’s lifestyles and environmental pressures. One of the best available today is Ultra preventive X (Douglas Labs). It has a therapeutic multivitamin blend combined with 20 powerful super foods, thus acting as a Whole Food Multivitamin. I take this every day.

2.              Omega-3 Fatty Acids/Fish Oils
There are many sources of Omega-3s on the market – and with that – just as much misinformation about these popular supplements. In short, only fish oil contains EPA/DHA – the best form of available omega-3 oils. These are most effective via a pharmaceutical-grade fish or krill oil.

3.              Traumeel Cream
This award-winning product is great to keep around for any bumps, bruises, sprains, or strains. And you don’t have to be an athlete to accumulate those injuries.

4.              Magnesium
One of the most deficient nutrients in North America. This wonder mineral is extremely helpful for those suffering from high blood pressure, headaches, anxiety, and constipation. How many people do you know with these symptoms?

5.              Digestive Aid
One of my favorite products is Metagest by Metagenics. This product contains betaine HCL – a powerful and safe way to boost your digestive juices. Keep these in your purse or coat pocket; they’re an essential way to get control of gastric distress, namely gas and bloating.

6.              Vitamin D
Quickly becoming one of the nutritional gems of the media, this nutrient helps to reduce risk of most cancers, autoimmune conditions, and heart disease. But before you start popping massive doses, have your ND check your blood levels to maintain a safe amount.

7.              Greens
We’re a society not getting enough fruits and vegetables – our main source of antioxidants. This is a huge factor in terms of the rise of chronic illnesses including cancer and heart disease. If you’re not getting a full ten servings of fruits and vegetables per day, using a high quality Greens product is a no-brainer. My favorite is Beta Greens by Vitazan. Still, eat your greens!

8.              Probiotics
These beneficial bacteria are similar to those naturally found in your body, which are often decreased by lifestyle factors and health conditions. Probiotics can help replenish this friendly bacteria that can be depleted by age, poor diet, stress, antibiotic therapy, and certain medical conditions. Studies confirm that consuming probiotics regularly can significantly improve digestive and immune health. They also help maintain a great complexion.

9.              B-Complex
If you’re balancing a life filled with work, family, friends, and social activity, you’re likely using B vitamins like a jet engine burns fuel. When we get low on these, we lose our luster, motivation, and stamina. Special B Complex by Vitazan does wonders for those living their life to the fullest.

10.          Fiber
The recommended fiber intake is 25-35 grams per day, but the average person only gets 15 grams daily. Fiber has many important functions in the body including weight management, heart health, and digestion. My favorite fiber product is Metafiber by Metagenics.

You can order all these supplements at The Dempster Clinic.