Supplements are exactly what they sound like, a supplement to your diet, not a replacement for healthy lifestyle habits or good nutrition. They're used to help fill in common nutrient gaps that can be hard to meet through food alone, even with a clean diet and regular exercise. You don’t need a prescription to get most supplements, they’re widely available over the counter but some nutrients like iron, vitamin D, or B12 may require higher, prescription-strength doses in specific cases.

That’s why it’s best to work with a knowledgeable healthcare provider who can tailor supplement recommendations to your individual needs.