The Problem with Generic Supplements

Most supplements sold in supermarkets and pharmacies use the cheapest forms of each nutrient — which are often the least bioavailable. Magnesium oxide is 4% absorbed; magnesium glycinate is 80%+. Folic acid cannot be utilised by the 40% of Australians who carry MTHFR genetic variants; methylfolate can.

Taking the wrong form, wrong dose, or wrong combination can be ineffective at best — and sometimes counterproductive.

Supplements Worth Considering for Most Adults

Supplements with strong evidence for most people include:

  • Vitamin D3 + K2: Most Australians are deficient, even in sunny climates — windows block UVB
  • Magnesium glycinate: Deficiency drives anxiety, poor sleep, muscle cramps, and constipation
  • Omega-3 (EPA/DHA): Anti-inflammatory, brain health, cardiovascular protection
  • Probiotic (multi-strain): For microbiome support, particularly post-antibiotic use

Supplements That Require Testing First

Some supplements should only be used with confirmed deficiency:

  • Iron: Can cause harm if supplemented unnecessarily; requires confirmed serum ferritin testing
  • Zinc: High dose zinc depletes copper — only supplement with confirmed deficiency
  • B12: Active B12 (methylcobalamin) if deficient; requires testing first especially in vegans/vegetarians
  • Iodine: Only supplement with confirmed deficiency and in the absence of autoimmune thyroid disease

Quality Matters Enormously

We prescribe practitioner-grade supplements that match label claims (confirmed by third-party testing), use evidence-based doses, and are free of unnecessary fillers, artificial colours, and allergens.

We never recommend supplements we would not take ourselves, and always review potential interactions with your current medications.

The right supplement at the right dose for the right person is medicine. The wrong one is expensive urine.

Quality Standards

A 2023 independent testing study found 40% of common vitamin D supplements sold in Australian pharmacies contained either significantly less or significantly more vitamin D than stated on the label — highlighting the critical importance of practitioner-grade, third-party tested supplementation.

Get Evidence-Based Supplement Guidance

Book a consultation at Health Therapies Clinics — supplementation tailored to your test results, not the generic RDI.

Book Your Appointment