Today, in the wellness world, there are so many conflicting messages around supplements. In this week’s blog, we aim to tell you everything you need to know about why we should all be supplementing, guiding you through the complexities and considerations you should be aware of. For those of us whose cupboards are overflowing with an array of supplements, you might be thinking, “Why should I consider EQUI when I already have so many options at my disposal?” The answer lies in the comprehensive nutrients used in each Formula as well as our ethos of the power of a body in balance. Our Formulas are not just about the individual benefits of each component, but how these nutrients work together, supporting each of the ten systems in the body to amplify your health. Here, we'll discuss how our carefully curated, multi-nutrient Formulas can streamline and potentially enhance your existing regimen. For those of us that feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of choices and information, we have got you covered too. We will highlight where you might want to begin and what you really need to take. We’ll break down the basics - from understanding what supplements do, to identifying what your body specifically needs, ensuring you start this journey on the right foot.

Supplements are not a one-size-fits-all solution. They should be as unique as the individuals taking them, tailored to their specific health goals, lifestyles, and dietary patterns. This blog will guide you in personalising your supplement journey, taking into account factors like life stage, lifestyle, dietary preferences, and health objectives. Moreover, we'll tackle some of the most common myths and misconceptions about supplements. We aim to provide clear, factual answers reinforcing the role of supplements as allies in your health and wellness journey. In essence, this blog is more than just a guide; it’s a pathway to understanding and harnessing the power of supplementation for your health. Whether you’re looking to refine, start, or understand your supplement routine, we have got you covered.

EQUI Formulas Simplify Supplement Stacking

For the supplement enthusiast with an overflowing cupboard, navigating through numerous of bottles, capsules, and powders each day can be both overwhelming and time-consuming. This is where EQUI steps in, offering a streamlined solution to your supplement routine. With our comprehensive, all-in-one Formulas, we not only simplify your daily regimen but also ensure a balanced and efficient nutrient intake, catering to all your health needs without the complexity and potential redundancies of multiple products. Our Formulas are designed to holistically support your health. Each product in our line-up contains an advanced multivitamin and mineral complex that addresses the nutritional needs of ten key systems in the body – a testament to our all-encompassing approach. Which means all you really need is EQUI. Here’s how EQUI supports each system in the body:

Digestion and Detoxification – We have included digestive enzymes, probiotics, and natural detoxifiers that support gut health and aid in the efficient elimination of toxins, ensuring a healthy digestive system and optimal nutrient absorption.

Hormonal Balance - Carefully selected ingredients such as vitamin B6, adaptogens and herbs support hormonal health, addressing issues such as stress and hormonal imbalances, which are common in today’s fast-paced lifestyle.

Skin Health - With components rich in antioxidants and skin-supporting nutrients such as vitamin C, biotin and selenium, our Formulas all promote a radiant complexion, aiding in the maintenance of healthy skin from the inside out. Beauty Formula goes one step further with the inclusion of GlowCutis® blend, a collagen-stimulating, antioxidant powerhouse to nourish skin, hair, and nails.

Reproductive Health - For those concerned with reproductive health, EQUI Formulas each include an advanced multivitamin and mineral complex, which is a female-specific spectrum of bio-available vitamins and minerals that support overall reproductive function. Our Pregnancy Formula steps in for those trying to conceive, pregnant or in the postpartum period and beyond. 

Energy Levels - EQUI Formulas are designed to enhance energy production at a cellular level, helping to support thyroid function thanks to the inclusion of iodine, zinc, selenium, and iron, which help combat fatigue and boost overall vitality.

Musculoskeletal System - Ingredients that support bone and muscle health such as vitamin D, K2 and calcium are integral to our Formulas, ensuring that your musculoskeletal system remains strong and resilient.

Immune Function - Packed with immune-boosting vitamins and minerals, including vitamins D, A, zinc, and vitamin C, our Formulas help fortify your body’s natural defences, keeping you protected and supported not matter what time of year it is.

Cardiovascular Health - Heart health is also a focus, with products that promote healthy circulation and cardiovascular function. For example, our Oil Editions complement our Formulas, providing your body with the right balance of essential fatty acids. 

Brain and Nervous System - Finally, EQUI caters to the needs of your nervous system and brain health, with nutrients such as DHA (found in our Oil Editions) and B vitamins, notably B6, B9, and B12 which support cognitive function, mental clarity, and mood.

By encompassing these ten key systems, EQUI ensures that your body gets comprehensive support in every capsule. This holistic approach means that instead of juggling multiple bottles and worrying about the right combinations and dosages, you can trust EQUI to cover all bases. Moreover, our commitment to quality means that each Formula is created with bioavailable ingredients, ensuring that your body can easily absorb and utilise the nutrients provided. This bioavailability is crucial for achieving the desired health benefits and makes EQUI a superior choice compared to taking multiple, separate supplements.

EQUI offers a streamlined, effective, and comprehensive approach to supplementation. Our all-in-one Formulas not only simplify your supplement routine but also provide balanced support for your entire body. Whether you’re looking to support digestion, skin health, energy levels, or brain function, EQUI has you covered. So, for the supplement enthusiast looking to declutter their cupboard and maximize their health benefits, EQUI is indeed all you need – a single, holistic solution to a multitude of nutritional needs. All you need to do choose the right Formula for you. You can take out quiz here to find your Formula.

A Beginner’s Guide to Supplements

For those of us who may feel lost in the vast array of supplement options on the market, navigating the right choice can be daunting. This is where EQUI Formulas step in, offering a straightforward and comprehensive approach to supplementation. Our tailored Formulas are designed to meet a wide array of health needs, eliminating the confusion often associated with selecting individual supplements.

Foundational Star Ingredients of EQUI Formulas

EQUI Formulas stand out for their inclusion of foundational star ingredients, each selected for their proven health benefits, for example:

B-Vitamin Blend - B-vitamins are crucial for energy production, hormone balance, nervous system function, and the metabolism of fats and proteins. Our B-vitamin blend including B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9 and B12 addresses common deficiencies and supports overall energy levels, brain function, and cellular health.

Vitamin C - Known for its immune-boosting properties, Vitamin C is also vital for collagen production, skin health, and antioxidant protection. Our Formulas include a robust dose of Vitamin C to support these essential bodily functions.

Vitamin D and E - Vitamin D is key for bone health and immune function, while Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative stress. EQUI ensures adequate intake of these fat-soluble vitamins, which are often lacking in modern diets.

Magnesium - This essential mineral is involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body. Magnesium glycinate in our Formulas is a bioavailable form which supports muscle and nerve function, maintains heart rhythm, and aids in bone health.

Zinc, Iron, Iodine, and Selenium - These trace minerals play vital roles in various bodily functions. Zinc boosts immunity and wound healing; Iron is crucial for blood health; Iodine supports thyroid function; and Selenium acts as an antioxidant. Our inclusion of these minerals ensures a balanced approach to micronutrient supplementation.

Probiotics - Gut health is integral to overall wellness. Our probiotic blend of Lactobacillus sporogenes, Bifidobacterium bifidum and Bifidobacterium longum promotes a healthy gut microbiome, which is essential for digestion, immune function, and even mental health.

EQUI Formulas offer an accessible and effective solution for those overwhelmed by supplement choices. By providing a well-rounded blend of essential vitamins, minerals, and probiotics, EQUI simplifies supplementation, ensuring that your foundational health needs are met without the confusion and complexity of selecting multiple products. Whether you're new to supplements or looking to streamline your regimen, EQUI provides a tailored approach to enhance your health and well-being. Shop our Formulas here. 

Myth-Busting & The Science Behind Supplements

Scepticism towards dietary supplements is understandable in an era where misinformation can be widespread. However, scientific evidence underscores the efficacy of supplements, particularly in contexts where modern diets fall short. This part of our discussion delves into how well-formulated supplements like EQUI can fill nutritional gaps, complementing the typical Western diet that often lacks certain key nutrients.

Nutritional Gaps in Modern Diets

In the wellness world, there’s a huge focus on protein intake, yet our diets are often lacking one overlooked aspect: fibre. Many of us aren’t even sure what fibre is, associating it with certain breakfast cereals, grains, and bread. Yet fibre comes from a variety of whole foods such as vegetables, fruit, nuts, seeds, and wholegrains. Fibre not only provides our gut with the food it needs to fuel the beneficial bacteria in the microbiome, it also provides us with a variety of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants essential to function at our very best. The modern or typical Western diet, characterised by an intake of low fibre, processed foods, sugars, and fats, often lacks these essential nutrients. One study highlighted deficiencies in vitamins, minerals, and fibre (1). Supplements can help bridge this nutritional divide by providing concentrated forms of these essential nutrients.

Soil Depletion and Nutrient Content

Another factor contributing to nutritional gaps is soil depletion. Modern agricultural practices have led to soil erosion and loss of nutrients, particularly minerals like selenium, which is vital for thyroid function and antioxidant defence. One study reported declining soil selenium levels, impacting the selenium content of the food grown in these soils (2). This makes the case for supplementation, especially in regions where soil nutrient content is compromised, including here in the UK.

Increased Nutritional Needs Due to Stress

Stress, a common aspect of modern life, can increase the body’s demand for certain nutrients, particularly magnesium, known for its role in the stress response. Research highlights that magnesium supplementation can be beneficial in managing stress and its related symptoms (3). Supplements provide an easy way to ensure adequate magnesium intake during stressful periods.

Dietary Choices and Nutrient Intake

Specific dietary choices can also lead to nutrient deficiencies. For instance, those following egg and dairy-free diets may miss out on choline, calcium, and iodine. Eggs are a prime source of choline, essential for liver function and brain health, while dairy products are major sources of calcium and iodine. The absence of these foods in the diet necessitates alternative sources, which can be efficiently provided through supplements. Vegan and vegetarian diets, while offering numerous health benefits (such as lots of fibre), can sometimes lack nutrients predominantly found in animal products, such as vitamin B12, iodine, iron, and choline. B12 deficiency, in particular, is a concern for vegans, as it is primarily found in animal products. Research emphasises the importance of B12 supplementation in vegan diets to prevent deficiency (4).

In an ideal world, our diets would provide all the necessary nutrients for optimal health. However, due to various factors like dietary choices, modern agricultural practices, and increased stress, this is not always feasible. Well-formulated supplements like EQUI can effectively fill these nutritional gaps, ensuring adequate intake of essential vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. Supplements should not replace a balanced diet but rather complement it, especially in cases where dietary restrictions or lifestyle factors increase the risk of nutrient deficiencies. By understanding the specific needs and gaps in our diets, we can use supplements to support our overall health and well-being.

Personalised Health

Personalised health is gaining momentum. It extends beyond the conventional scope of vitamins and minerals, embracing a more comprehensive approach that includes herbs, plant extracts, and specific nutritional compounds. This approach also recognises that individual health needs vary greatly depending on life stages, lifestyle factors, and personal health goals.

Personalised Nutrition for Each Life Stage

Personalised nutrition is the cornerstone of effective health management. Each life stage - whether you are seeking overall wellness, hormonal balance, weight management support, pregnancy, or menopause support - has unique nutritional requirements. For instance, if skin, nails, and hair is your top priority, then Beauty Formula has it all, whilst still supporting hormone balance, energy, and focus. At Beauty Formula’s core is EQUI’s proprietary GlowCutis® blend, a collagen-stimulating, antioxidant powerhouse to nourish skin, hair, and nails. Containing hyaluronic acid, type 1 marine collagen peptides, zinc, vitamin C, pine bark extract, resveratrol & silica, which work together to support every stage of the skin cell cycle, strengthening and helping to counteract premature skin ageing. For general wellbeing, Wellness Formula is your go to, providing female specific vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants you need to fill in any nutritional gaps. The inclusion of adaptogenic herbs such as Siberian ginseng supports the regulation of hormonal activity and prevents ‘burn out’, restores and recalibrates. Meanwhile, cordyceps mushroom supports immunity and cognitive function. Menopause Formula provides soothing support to help women overcome hormonal fluctuations whilst also aiding skin rejuvenation, bone density, joint health and the cardiovascular system. Dong Quai, sage, and hops extract are premium plant extracts to support the regulation of hormonal activity, whilst flaxseed extract is rich in plant ‘phyto-oestrogens’ to help combat common menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes. Finally, KSM66® ashwagandha and rhodiola are scientifically proven to boost mood, sleep & calm anxiety. Restores adrenals to discourage ‘burn out’. If weight management is more your goal, then check out Lean Formula which helps boost the metabolism, enhance energy, curb cravings, prolong satiety and support hormones and adrenals. The inclusion of glucomannan reduces hunger and aids satiety, whilst green coffee bean extract boosts metabolic and brain function. Finally, Pregnancy Formula can be taken during the preconception period, during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Containing methyl-folate, a natural, healthier form of folic acid, supports normal development of the foetus and reduces risk of neural tube defects whilst FerroChel® Iron is a gentle form that is less constipating, and helps to reduce fatigue during and after pregnancy. Each Formula, in addition to vitamins and minerals, incorporates herbs, plant extracts and science-backed forms of nutrients, offering holistic health benefits, targeted to your specific needs. 

Disclaimer: All of the information on this website is provided for general information only, it should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional providing personalised nutrition or lifestyle advice. If you have any concerns about your general health, you should contact your local health care provider. No one diet or supplement regime works for everyone and you should always seek help from a GP and registered health expert before making changes to your diet, or before introducing any supplements. This is especially important when pregnant.

References

1. Popkin, B.M., Adair, L.S., and Ng, S.W., (2012). Global nutrition transition and the pandemic of obesity in developing countries. Nutrition Reviews, 70(1), pp.3-21.

2. Jones, G.D., Droz, B., Greve, P., Gottschalk, P., Poffet, D., McGrath, S.P., Seneviratne, S.I., Smith, P., and Winkel, L.H.E., (2017). Selenium deficiency risk predicted to increase under future climate change. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 114(11), pp.2848-2853.

3. Boyle, N.B., Lawton, C., and Dye, L., (2017). The effects of magnesium supplementation on subjective anxiety and stress—a systematic review. Nutrients, 9(5), p.429.

 

1. Craig, W.J., (2010). Nutrition concerns and health effects of vegetarian diets. Nutrition in Clinical Practice, 25(6), pp.613-620.