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2 September 2025
Supplements Uncovered
A Practical Guide to Making Informed Choices
- Written by Lynae, Owner of Healthy Living with Lynae, NNCP, CHN, CHC
The use of supplements has continued to grow rapidly over the last 20 years, confirming supplements are an important part of people’s diets worldwide. There are a number of reasons why people are reaching for supplements more than ever. Some of the factors driving growth are preventative healthcare, personalized nutrition, E-commerce expansion, influence of weight loss medications, etc.
The global dietary supplements market is projected to experience significant growth by 2028, with various forecasts estimating the market size to reach between $128 to $319 billion, depending on the source and scope of analysis. With a growing supplement market providing opportunities, consumers should also be cautious and aware of key factors.
Are supplements created Equal?
No, not all supplements are created equal!
Key Factors to Consider before Choosing or Taking a Supplement:
Quality, Purity and Transparency of Ingredients
Regulatory Compliance
Reputation of Brand / Trusted Sources / Third-Party Testing
Purpose and Necessity
Dosage and Formulation
Allergies and Sensitivities
Expiry Dates
Potential Interactions with Medications
Combining some supplements can reduce absorption or counteract each other’s benefits.
Be cautious of proprietary blends and unrealistic claims.
Are Supplements Regulated?
Supplements are regulated but they are not as strictly regulated as pharmaceuticals. Health Canada regulates natural health products to ensure products are safe, effective and of high quality.
NHPs include a wide range of products, such as:
Probiotics Herbal
Remedies Vitamins and
Minerals Homeopathic
Medicines Traditional
Medicines Amino Acids and Essential Fatty Acids
All NHPs must be licensed before they can be sold in Canada. You can identify licensed natural health products by looking for the eight-digit Natural Product Number (NPN) or Homeopathic Medicine Number (DIN-HM) on the label. Health Canada, provides:
Safety and Efficacy: Companies must demonstrate that their products are safe andperform as claimed.
Good Manufacturing Practices: Manufacturers of NHPs must adhere to GMP to ensure product consistency, quality, and safety. This includes standards for production, labeling, and packaging.
Labeling Requirements: Labeling must include the NPN or DIN-HM, product monograph, dosage instructions, and any safety warnings or contraindications.
Post-Market Surveillance: Health Canada monitors NHPs on the market for adverse reactions and compliance with regulations.
Consumer Information: Health Canada provides resources and guidance for consumers to help them make informed choices about NHPs.
Enforcement and Compliance: Health Canada has the authority to take enforcement actions against non-compliant products.
Choosing the right supplement can be complex, here are someadditional steps to help!
Assess your Nutritional Needs: Dietary Evaluation – Review your current diet to identify any potential nutrient gabs. Life Stages – Consider your age, gender, life stage and lifestyle factors that can affect nutrient requirements.
Consult your Healthcare Professional: Guidance – See a provider who can provide personalized advice based on your health history, dietary habits, and specific needs.Blood Tests – Blood tests can show deficiencies in specific nutrients.
Define your Health Goals: Specific Goals – Identify your health objectives, such as improving energy levels, boost immunity, support weight loss, or enhance performance.Targeting Supplements – Based on your goals.
Start slow and Monitor Effects: Gradual Introduction and Monitor Symptoms – start slow to see how your body reactsand keep track of changes in your health, or any side effects.
Stay Informed: Ongoing Education – Nutrition science is constantly evolving. Stay informed.Reassess Periodically – Regularly review your supplement regimen, especially if your health status of dietary habits change. Always discuss new supplements with your doctor, or healthcare provider especially if pregnant, nursing or have underlying health conditions.
Healthy Living
with Lynae
Natural Nutrition Clinical Practitioner (NNCP), Certified Holistic Nutritionist (CHN),
Certified Nutritional Counsellor (CHC)
Cell: 778.822.09920
www.healthylivingwithlynae.com
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