The majority of my clients use nutritional supplements. Some only take a capsule or two a day. Others literally swallow a handful of carefully selected supplements. Each person has a unique set of needs and requirements that is considered in my evidence-based recommendations. However, there is one suggestion that I make across the board. I strongly recommend that everyone make a list of the supplements they use, with a little note next to the name that describes why each capsule, soft gel and tablet is being taken. This list should be reviewed occasionally as a reminder of why you’re making the effort and spending your hard earned money on this regimen. I personally do this when preparing my family’s supplements for the week.

The mind-body connection is what I want to emphasize in this practice. Blankly staring at an assortment of supplements prior to swallowing them isn’t nearly as powerful as being mindful of the anticipated benefits of doing so. How detailed you get in your awareness of what you’re taking is up to you. For instance, I was just working with a client the other day who needed some support for brittle hair and nails. I suggested that she start taking a bioavailable form of the trace mineral silica (orthosilicic acid) known as Biosil. But, prior to swallowing the first pill, I requested that she read the product label. The label accurately and clearly states that this form of silica may “promote healthy bones and joints”, “reduce fine lines and wrinkles”, “strengthen nails” and “thicken and strengthen hair“. That was enough for this particular client. If more detailed, scientifically oriented information is necessary, that can also be provided. Using the example of Biosil once more, I would explain that it has been shown in animal, human and in-vitro studies to: a) support healthier bones via improved calcium retention and collagen production; b) reduce hair breakage by increasing elasticity and tensile strength in those with fine hair and; c) help brittle nails and improve skin texture when a dosage of 10 mg/day is used on a consistent, long term basis. The degree of specificity is rarely important provided that you have reliable sources. What is important is that you understand the reason why you’re taking what you’re taking and that you’re confident that it’s a worthwhile pursuit. If this isn’t the case, it’s likely an indication that you should reassess your supplement regimen and/or your health care team.

To learn more about the studies referenced in today’s column, please click on the following links:

Study 1 – The Chemistry of Silica and Its Potential Health Benefits … (link)

Study 2 – Silicic Acid: Its Gastrointestinal Uptake and Urinary Excretion … (link)

Study 3 – Choline-Stabilized Orthosilicic Acid Supplementation as an Adjunct … (link)

Study 4 – Partial Prevention of Long-Term Femoral Bone Loss in Aged … (link)

Study 5 – Mineral Balance in Horses Fed Two Supplemental Silicon Sources … (link)

Study 6 – Supplementation of Calves with Stabilized Orthosilicic Acid Effect … (link)

Study 7 – Orthosilicic Acid Stimulates Collagen Type 1 Synthesis and Osteoblastic … (link)

Study 8 – Effect of Oral Intake of Choline-Stabilized Orthosilicic Acid on Hair … (link)

Study 9 – Vitamins and Minerals: Their Role in Nail Health and Disease … (link)

Study 10 – Effect of Oral Intake of Choline-Stabilized Orthosilicic Acid on Skin … (link)

Biosil May Increase Bone Collagen Content

Source: BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2008 Jun 11;9:85. (link)