Food First, But Not Food Only
As a health coach, one of the first things I always share with my clients is: food is information for your body. The way we eat affects everything from energy and mood to digestion and sleep. Whole, nutrient-rich foods are the foundation of good health.
But here’s the truth I’ve seen again and again with clients (and in my own health journey): food alone often isn’t enough. And that’s not a failure on your part – it’s simply the world we live in today.
Let’s unpack why that is.
Why Food Isn’t Always Enough
✔️ Nutrient Gaps Are Real
Our soil isn’t what it used to be. Industrial farming practices have stripped the soil of key minerals, which means our fruits and veggies contain fewer nutrients than they did a generation ago. Add in busy schedules, eating on-the-go, and stress (which increases nutrient needs), and most of us are left with gaps.
✔️ Special Diets Can Lead to Deficiencies
Many people today are following eating patterns that cut out entire food groups – like vegan, vegetarian, carnivore, or keto diets. While these can have benefits, they also increase the risk of nutrient deficiencies. For example, vegans and vegetarians are often low in vitamin B12, vitamin D, iron, zinc, and calcium. Keto, because of its low-carb nature, can leave people low in folate, vitamin A, vitamin B6, magnesium, and calcium.
✔️ Calorie Restriction Reduces Nutrition Too
When you’re eating fewer meals – whether from calorie counting or intermittent fasting – it’s simply harder to get everything your body needs. Even with three meals plus a snack each day, it takes thoughtful planning to meet daily requirements for protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Cut that down to two meals a day, or skip snacks, and the gaps grow wider.
✔️ GLP-1 Medications Change Eating Patterns
Many people on GLP-1 medications experience reduced hunger. On the surface, that sounds like a good thing – but when your appetite drops, so does your intake of essential nutrients. Add in common side effects like stomach upset or interrupted sleep, and many people start reaching for quick, simple carbs – crackers, bread, small sandwiches – rather than balanced meals. Over time, this can create deeper nutritional shortfalls.
✔️ Supplement Quality Isn’t Guaranteed
Here’s another wrinkle: not all supplements are what they claim to be. You may think you’re taking a probiotic, but if the quality is low – or the CFU count isn’t anywhere near high enough to make a difference – you’re wasting your money. Some supplements are counterfeit, some have expired or lost potency, and others contain fillers or even toxins that cancel out the positive effects. This is a huge industry problem, and one I’ll be breaking down in the workshop.
Supplements: A Tool, Not a Replacement
It’s important to remember: supplements should never replace real food.
They are exactly what the name suggests – supplemental.
Food provides a symphony of nutrients, fibers, and phytonutrients that no capsule or powder can fully replicate. That’s why I teach a food-first approach in my practice. Build your meals around real, whole foods, then use supplements strategically to fill in the missing notes.
Think of it like this: food is the orchestra, supplements are the backup singers.
What You’ll Learn in the Workshop
Everyone’s needs are unique – and that’s exactly why I’m running a free workshop this Friday: “Cutting Through the Supplement BS: What Women 40+ Actually Need!”
In this workshop, I’ll be sharing:
The most common nutrient gaps I see in clients today
Why quality matters just as much as quantity when it comes to supplements
The 5 Foundational Supplements I recommend starting with (you’ll get the inside scoop on these during the session!)
How to shop smarter so you don’t waste money on products that don’t work
✨ You’ll walk away with less overwhelm and more clarity.
👉 Click here to save your spot for the free workshop
