• When considering starting supplements for the first time or just introducing a new one into your life, it’s essential to do your research.
• One supplement, which can be helpful to many, may or may not be the right one for you — this is why asking questions is essential.
• Before taking a new supplement, ask yourself these 6 questions.

Supplements are fantastic — we know it first hand. But when you’re diving into taking supplements for the first time or just adding a new supplement to your regime, it’s essential to know exactly what you’re getting into.

How do you know what is good to take? Is one supplement better for you versus another? What will benefit your life specifically? Is it safe for you to take? These are all important and essential things to consider.

This is why we believe you should answer these 6 questions before ever taking any new supplement, below.

1. How is your overall health?

Try to think about this question and answer as honestly as you can. How is your overall health? If you’re suffering from medical conditions like kidney problems, liver issues or high blood pressure, you may need to avoid taking certain vitamins. Remember: you should consult with your doctor before taking any new supplement.

2. Are you over the age of fifty?

Does age matter? In this case, yes. As we age, it becomes possible that our bodies stop absorbing nutrients as it used to from just diet alone. Deficiencies in certain vitamins, such as vitamin D, vitamin B, magnesium and Omega-3 are more prevalent in older individuals above the age of 50. If you fall into this category, it might be helpful to add in supplements to your daily regime to get the nutrients your body needs.

3. Do you omit food groups in your diet?

This is a big one: are you omitting a food group in your diet? If you are a vegetarian, vegan or even following the paleo diet, you may not get all of the vitamins and minerals you need from food alone. This is where a supplement might be a great option.

Several studies have found that, while a vegetarian and vegan diet can be healthy, they often lack vitamin B12 which is only naturally occurring in animal products. Vegetarians and vegans have a higher risk of deficiency — especially those who don’t use supplements — than other groups. If you have too little B12, it can lead to a host of ailments that can impact your heart, nervous system, bone health and more. If this is you, consider adding in an Active-B complex supplement.

4. Are you pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant?

The process of pregnancy is life-changing and can put a strain on a woman’s body. If you’re pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant, your body needs more daily nutrients in order to keep you and your baby healthy. It’s important to consider where you stand on vitamin levels — talk to your doctor about what may be right for you. Often, it is recommended that a woman take a prenatal vitamin supplement. We like these options: this one and even this vegan prenatal vitamin.

In pregnancy, it’s essential for women to get enough folic acid, iron and calcium. A prenatal vitamin can help with these needs.

5. How healthy is your gut?

Ah, gut health. If your gut health isn’t in check, the odds are that the rest of your body is feeling the effects. Your gut health is linked to every part of your body — you’ll notice the signs both physically and mentally whether it be positive or negative. Wherever you are in your gut health, you can actually reset your gut with the help of supplements. We love these three essential, quality options to get started: support your gut barrier function with MegaSporeBiotic, increase your microbial diversity with MegaPre and rebuild a healthy mucosal barrier with MegaMucosa.

A healthy gut leads to a healthier, happier you.

6. Is it a quality supplement?

Last, but not least, you should always ask yourself: is it a quality supplement? These days, we are inundated with false information and claims around products that simply just don’t work. At The Swell Score, we recognize the need for a place where you can go to get quality, reputable supplements that actually help you. If you’re into research, check out our evidence-based articles. Our team of doctors and nutritionists have hand-selected the top options for you, with a store curated just for you, all in one convenient place.