With so many options on the market, finding the best practitioner-grade supplements for your patients can be an overwhelming task. In this article, we’ll explore the key aspects to consider when choosing practitioner-grade supplements, the differences between these supplements and over-the-counter options, as well as potential risks and side effects to be aware of. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of how to make informed decisions about prescribing supplements to your patients.
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What Are Practitioner-Grade Supplements?
All supplements are regulated by governing bodies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Furthermore, all supplement manufacturers must present proof or testing and a certificate of analysis to prove what’s in the supplement bottle. However, the FDA only conducts post-market surveillance in the event of serious adverse events associated with the use of a particular supplement. This means that many lower-quality supplements can enter the market with little to no prior testing, potentially putting consumers are risk. (7)
What often sets practitioner-grade supplements apart from other lesser-quality supplements is their commitment to quality, purity, and safety. Practitioner-grade supplements are more likely to invest in third-party certification programs to ensure higher quality and transparency with their customers. (1)
Outlined below are some common characteristics of practitioner-grade supplements:
- Clinically studied.
- Crafted using high-quality ingredients.
- Designed to provide optimal bioavailability, meaning they are easily absorbed and utilized by the body.
- Formulated with therapeutic doses of vitamins, minerals, herbs, and other nutrients to help address specific health issues or deficiencies.
- Manufactured using strict processes to ensure safety and potency (1)(11).
The Importance of Supplement Quality
When you’re investing in your patients’ health, it’s crucial to choose supplements that meet the highest safety and quality standards. Low-quality supplements may contain fillers, additives, contaminants, mislabeled ingredients, or suboptimal ingredients that can reduce their efficacy and potentially pose health risks. (4)(5)(6)
Practitioner-grade supplements undergo thorough third-party testing to ensure purity, potency, and overall quality. These supplements are manufactured in facilities that adhere to strict regulations and guidelines. (8)(12)
Practitioner-Grade Supplements Versus Over-the-Counter Supplements
While both practitioner-grade and over-the-counter supplements serve a similar purpose, there are significant differences between the two.
When it comes to choosing the right supplements for your patient’s health and wellness needs, understanding the disparities between practitioner-grade and over-the-counter options is crucial.
Key Distinctions Between Practitioner-Grade Supplements and Over-the-Counter Supplements
Quality and Efficacy
One of the key distinctions between practitioner-grade and over-the-counter supplements is the quality and efficacy of the ingredients. Practitioner-grade supplements are typically formulated with higher-quality ingredients that undergo rigorous testing and have a higher level of bioavailability.
On the other hand, over-the-counter supplements may be made with lower-quality ingredients and may not undergo the same level of testing. While some over-the-counter options may provide benefits, the lack of stringent quality control measures can lead to inconsistencies in terms of potency and effectiveness. (6)(10)
Cost
Practitioner-grade supplements may come at a higher price point compared to over-the-counter options. However, it’s important to consider the value your patients are getting for their money.
Practitioner-grade supplements are often more expensive considering that they contain higher-quality ingredients. While over-the-counter supplements may seem more affordable upfront, the long-term benefits and potential health outcomes of practitioner-grade supplements may often outweigh the initial investment.
How to Choose the Right Practitioner-Grade Supplements for Better Health Outcomes
Now that you understand the importance of practitioner-grade supplements, let’s explore how to choose the right ones based on your patient’s unique needs.
Consult with Your Patients
Speaking to your patients and understanding their unique needs is crucial when choosing practitioner-grade supplements. It’s up to you to guide your patients on proper dosages, potential side effects, and potential interactions with medications or other supplements they may be taking. Taking into account their medical history, lifestyle habits, and current medications is the best way to ensure that the supplements you recommend are appropriate for them. (2)
Furthermore, it’s essential to consider their health concerns, as well as any dietary restrictions or preferences they have, and utilize laboratory tests to detect deficiencies. This will help you determine which nutrients they may be lacking and need to supplement. For example, if they follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, you may need to ensure they are getting adequate amounts of vitamin B12, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids.
It’s important to monitor your patient’s progress and make adjustments to their supplement regimen as needed. You can track any changes in their health markers and modify their supplement routine accordingly. This ongoing support and guidance can help optimize your patient’s health and ensure that they’re getting the most benefit from the supplements you recommend.
Research Top Brands
There are several reputable brands that offer a wide range of practitioner-grade supplements. Brands such as Metagenics, Thorne, Pure Encapsulations, Designs for Health, and Microbiome Labs have gained recognition for their commitment to quality and transparency. It’s important to do your own research to find the brand and product that aligns with your specific needs. Refer to brand websites to learn more about their safety, quality, and purity standards.
Learn more about Fullscript’s commitment to supplement quality.
How to Reduce the Potential Risks and Side Effects of Supplements
While practitioner-grade supplements are generally safe, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and side effects.
Understand the Risks of Supplementation
Although rare, there’s always a small risk of adverse reactions or allergies to certain ingredients in supplements. Carefully read the ingredient list and supplement label if you have any concerns. Additionally, certain supplements may interact with medications, so it’s important to understand your patients’ current medication regimen. (3)(9)
Minimize Potential Side Effects
To minimize potential side effects, follow the recommended dosage instructions and avoid recommending excessive amounts. If your patients experience any unusual symptoms, it’s essential to discontinue use, re-evaluate, and, if necessary, report adverse events to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration or Health Canada. (3)
Choose Practitioner-Grade Supplements to Support Your Patients
Finding the best practitioner-grade supplements requires careful consideration of various factors such as quality, efficacy, and personal health needs. By recommending practitioner-grade supplements rather than over-the-counter generic brands, you can ensure that you are making informed choices for your patient’s well-being.
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- Akabas, S. R., Vannice, G., Atwater, J. B., Cooperman, T., Cotter, R., & Thomas, L. M. (2016). Quality certification programs for dietary supplements. Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, 116(9), 1370–1379. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jand.2015.11.003
- Brykman, M. C., Goldman, V. S., Sarma, N. D., Oketch-Rabah, H. A., Biswas, D., & Giancaspro, G. I. (2022). What should clinicians know about dietary supplement quality? AMA Journal of Ethics, 24(5), E382-389. https://doi.org/10.1001/amajethics.2022.382
- Chiba, T., & Tanemura, N. (2022). Differences in the Perception of Dietary Supplements between Dietary Supplement/Medicine Users and Non-Users. Nutrients, 14(19), 4114. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14194114
- Dwyer, J., Coates, P. M., & Smith, M. J. (2018). Dietary Supplements: regulatory challenges and research resources. Nutrients, 10(1), 41. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu10010041
- Lockwood, G. (2010). The quality of commercially available nutraceutical supplements and food sources. Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, 63(1), 3–10. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.2042-7158.2010.01159.x
- Lurie, P. (2023). Ensuring the safety and value of supplements. JAMA Network Open, 6(7), e2323832. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.23832
- Nutrition, C. F. F. S. a. A. (2022, October 26). Questions and answers on dietary supplements. U.S. Food And Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/food/information-consumers-using-dietary-supplements/questions-and-answers-dietary-supplements
- Office of Dietary Supplements – Dietary supplements: What you need to know. (n.d.). https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/WYNTK-Consumer/
- Ronis, M. J. J., Pedersen, K. B., & Watt, J. (2018). Adverse effects of nutraceuticals and dietary supplements. Annual Review of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 58(1), 583–601. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-pharmtox-010617-052844
- Sanzini, E., Badea, M., Santos, A. D., Restani, P., & Sievers, H. (2011). Quality control of plant food supplements. Food & Function, 2(12), 740. https://doi.org/10.1039/c1fo10112a
- Tesseract, A. C. F. |. (2023, August 8). How to Choose a Supplement: Why Bioavailability is Essential to Ensure Efficacy. Tesseract. https://insights.tessmed.com/how-to-choose-a-supplement-why-bioavailability-is-essential-to-ensure-efficacy/
- Vento, K. A., & Wardenaar, F. C. (2020). Third-Party testing nutritional supplement knowledge, attitudes, and use among an NCAA I Collegiate Student-Athlete population. Frontiers in Sports and Active Living, 2. https://doi.org/10.3389/fspor.2020.00115
