Episode 95: Are Supplements Worth It? How to Choose the Right Ones

 

Supplements are everywhere, from Instagram ads to supermarket shelves, but how do you know which ones are actually worth your money? In this episode of The Goode Health Podcast, we break down the myths and misconceptions about supplements, separating marketing hype from genuine health benefits.

You’ll learn why more isn’t always better, why “natural” doesn’t automatically mean safe, and how factors like dosage, bioavailability, and third-party testing determine whether your body can actually use the nutrients inside that bottle. We’ll also explore hidden risks like fillers, poor-quality ingredients, and misleading claims that can leave you wasting money, or worse, harming your health.

This episode answers questions like:

“Are supplements safe?”

“Do supplements really work?”

“What supplements should I take daily?”

“Natural vs synthetic supplements”

“What is supplement bioavailability?”

“Do I need supplements if I eat healthy?”

“What does third-party tested supplements mean?”

“How to know if supplements are high quality?”

Finally, I’ll share my simple three-step filter to help you choose the right supplements for your unique needs. Whether you want to boost immunity, correct deficiencies, or simply stop wasting money on products that don’t work, this episode gives you the clarity and confidence you need to build a supplement routine that actually supports your health

DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast and related website is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice. It is not intended to be used to diagnose or treat, instead it is designed to help educate and inspire. Always seek the advice of a professional medical practitioner or qualified health practitioner. Never ignore or disregard advice given to you based on information in this podcast or related website and do not delay in seeking medical advice.

 

Timestamps:

[01:50] - Supplement Myths and Misconceptions
Busting the biggest supplement myths, including “natural means safe,” “more is better,” and “if it’s sold in a health shop, it must be good.”

[05:15] - What Makes a High-Quality Supplement?
Learn the factors that separate effective supplements from marketing: dosage, bioavailability, third-party testing, and sourcing.

[09:45] - The Dangers of Influencer Recommendations
Why celebrity and influencer supplement advice can be unsafe, misleading, and not tailored to your individual health needs.

[13:20] - Supplement Health Claims
Breaking down vague supplement claims like “boosts immunity” or “supports heart health” and what they really mean.

[14:50] - How to Choose the Right Supplements
A simple 3-step filter to evaluate supplements: know your need, check the label, and choose trusted brands.

 
Natural doesn’t automatically mean safe. We love to believe that if something is plant-based or labeled ‘natural,’ it must be harmless, but that simply isn’t true. Arsenic is natural. Poison ivy is natural. Some natural supplements can interact with medications or make certain conditions worse. That’s why choosing supplements isn’t about following influencer recommendations, it’s about understanding what your body actually needs and selecting products that are tested, safe, and effective.
— Nicole Goode
 

Essential learnings from this episode…

  • Not all supplements are created equal. Supplements in supermarkets often contain minimum effective doses, poor-quality ingredients, or unnecessary fillers that don’t support your health.

  • More isn’t always better. High doses of vitamins and minerals like zinc can cause side effects and even harm your immune system.

  • Natural doesn’t automatically mean safe. Some natural supplements can interact with medications, worsen conditions, or cause unwanted reactions.

  • Bioavailability matters. The form of a nutrient (e.g., magnesium glycinate vs. magnesium oxide) determines how well your body absorbs and uses it.

  • Marketing can mislead you. Influencers and vague supplement claims often prioritize sales over science, making it crucial to check the evidence.

  • Use the 3-step supplement filter. Know your health need, check the label for form and dosage, and choose third-party tested, practitioner-trusted brands.

 
 

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Episode 94: Summer Wellness Tips: 7 Simple Shifts + A Big September Announcement