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By Tricia Granchi, MSN, FNP-C |

Do Gut Health Supplements Work?

Reasonable Expectations When Healing Your Gut with Controlled Nutrition 

Do Gut Health Supplements Work
There is an overwhelming amount of information (and disinformation) online about gut health and “gut lining supplements.” It’s easy to get confused or led astray by catchy marketing, influencer trends or anecdotes that don’t apply to your unique biology. What works for one person could be ineffective or even counterproductive for another, especially if underlying conditions are driving your symptoms.
Some of the most common health symptoms we address at Donaldson include bloating, gas, irregular bowel habits, brain fog, skin irritation and mood fluctuations. Each of these can have its own different root cause. But for many patients, that root cause points back to one far-reaching culprit: damage to the gut.
This leads them to ask, “do gut health supplements work?” when it comes to addressing their concerns.

Key Clinical Takeaways

  • Yes, Supplements Can Support Gut Integrity: But they’re part of a bigger picture. Certain ingredients (like glutamine, zinc, targeted probiotics) have data showing support for mucosal health, barrier integrity and microbial balance when used appropriately and under clinical oversight.

  • Not All Supplements Are Created Equal:  Quality, sourcing and formulation matter. Catchy packaging or social media popularity don’t. Poor‑quality products (especially when bought online) can be ineffective or irritating.

  • Gut Health Testing Is Vital for Chronic Gut Issues: By identifying underlying imbalances — whether microbial, inflammatory, digestive enzyme status or lifestyle contributors — healthcare professionals can create targeted plans that outperform “take this magic pill for leaky gut” approaches.

A patient looking at their gut health supplements to see how many are left

What Supplements Work for Gut Health?

Every patient is unique, and the supplements that work best depend on individual needs, test results and clinical context. The following are evidence‑informed supplements our functional medicine team has found effective when appropriately tailored, especially among our Midwest patients.

  • L‑Glutamine: An amino acid that supports enterocyte (intestinal cell) fuel and may assist mucosal health.

  • Biocidin® (Antimicrobial Complex): A multi‑component botanical formula shown in clinical use to help balance microbial populations.

  • Akkermansia Probiotic / Targeted Microbiome Support: Supports microbial diversity and mucin‑layer health — especially when guided by testing and existing baseline intestinal bacteria.

  • Zinc + L‑Carnosine: Emerging evidence for mucosal barrier support and calming of gastric irritation when indicated.

  • Collagen Peptides: Provides foundational amino acids that may support connective tissues of the gut lining.

  • Toxin Binder (with Microcrystalline Cellulose, Stearic Acid, Silicon Dioxide, Magnesium Stearate): Used carefully and short‑term to help bind and clear certain metabolites or irritants.

  • Digestive Enzymes (When Needed): Can support breakdown of nutrients to reduce downstream irritation or dysbiosis, especially among patients with malabsorption disorders.

  • Short‑Chain Fatty Acid (Butyrate) Support (Clinical Choice): Fuels colonocytes and supports healthy mucosal immune signaling, with additional health benefits expanding beyond the gut.

Supplement Quality Can Vary Wildly — & That Matters

Not all supplements deliver what they promise. When you’re looking at a label, look for integrity signals like “single sourcing, “third-party testing” and other transparent ingredient labeling that isn’t hidden behind “proprietary blend.”
Gut Health Specialist Tricia Granchi, MSN, posing for a photo in Columbus, Ohio

“Those 2 a.m. impulse buys on Amazon because you just ready about it? I’ve been there. I’m guilty! But these products often skip clinical potency, purity testing or appropriate formulation. That can mean no benefit or even greater digestive irritation.”

-Tricia Granchi, MSN, FNP-C

What to Look for on Supplement Labels

  • Third‑party testing seals (USP, NSF, ConsumerLab)
  • Clear ingredient sourcing and standardized extracts
  • Clinically studied doses
  • Products formulated for digestive tolerance
  • Professional‑grade designations
  • Dose per serving
  • Standardized extra percentages
  • An absence of unnecessary fillers/fillers that irritate people with sensitivities

Buzzwords That Are Not Backed by Science or FDA-Approval

  • “All‑Natural”
  • “Cleanse”
  • “Detox”
  • “Anti-Aging”
  • “Gut repair formula” (without ingredient transparency)

A patient posing with her fish oil pills, muted brown background

What Supplements Should I Avoid for Gut Health?

There are two reasons to steer clear of certain supplements for gut health. Some simply don’t do anything or have a trivial positive impact. Others can actually irritate the gut, impede digestion and/or interfere with nutrient absorption.

  • Irritating Herbal Laxatives: Can cause dependency, irritation and an unpleasant experience with no benefit

  • Broad‑Spectrum Antimicrobials: Without indication, these can disrupt healthy flora

  • Excessive “Probiotic Blends”:  with dozens of strains at low doses — little evidence

  • Magnesium Overload: Too much magnesium can act more as a laxative than a healing agent

  • “Leaky Gut Repair” Complexes: These often contain proprietary blends with little-to-no transparency

  • Digestive Bitters: Bitters can be effective, but some products are overly acidic digestive bitters and cause issues for sensitive mucosa

  • Low Quality Collagen: Costs less, but is often littered with fillers that can cause discomfort and a diluted amount of collagen

A Note About Protein Supplements & Gut Health

Many low-cost, low-quality protein powders contain fillers, artificial sweeteners or lactose derivatives that irritate the gut, especially in sensitive individuals. Choose protein sources with minimal additives and low‑FODMAP profiles if gut health is a concern.

“Whey protein is widely considered to be ‘the most bioavailable option’ on the market, meaning the body absorbs more of it per unit. But I’ve seen it cause gut health disruption in some of my patients. Plant-based alternatives — like pea, brown rice & pumpkin seed proteins — are some suitable solutions to explore!”

-Tricia Granchi, MSN, FNP-C

When Are Supplements Viable for Gut Health?

Supplements are literally that: a nutritional supplement. They’re not a replacement for whole foods and foundational habits. The goal is always to get nutrients and supportive compounds from a varied, nutrient‑dense diet first. But there are situations when supplements can effectively bridge gaps, including when reversing a chronic imbalance, addressing intense inflammation or when barriers to achieving nutritional goals through food alone.
Targeted supplementation on a routine schedule to maximize impact can support healing while functional lifestyle changes are put into place. Not only can they be used to bridge nutritional gaps, like with fiber supplements, they’re also exceptional at creating an iterative environment with minimal lifestyle disruption.

“Flax seed, lentils, fermented foods — they’re all excellent sources of fiber. But if you’re used to getting 12 grams a day, & now you’re shooting for 30 grams to help with your gut, you’re going to have some discomfort! Supplements can give your body a slower, more controlled introduction to the nutrients it has been missing, with reduced side effects.”

-Tricia Granchi, MSN, FNP-C

A suburban woman preparing a fiber-smart dinner at home

What Can I Expect When Healing My Gut?

Supplements can support gut health, but they are not a magic fix on their own. Significant, lasting improvement usually comes when supplements are paired with lifestyle interventions, such as stress management, sleep optimization, food quality and physical activity.
“I tell my patients that healing the gut is about restoring balance, not just taking a pill. In almost every case, the patient expresses that they want to take back control of their bodies. Supplements can help get them across the finish line, but once they have their nutrition & lifestyle down? Then they’re really off to the races.”
-Tricia Granchi, MSN, FNP-C
A woman in her mid-30s experiencing chronic gut health complications

Should I Get A GI MAP Test?

Yes, especially if you are currently experiencing chronic bloating, fatigue and other symptoms. At Donaldson, we are proponents of comprehensive, clinically validated stool testing like the GI‑MAP when gut concerns are persistent or complex.

At-Home GI Map Tests vs. Clinical GI Map Tests

Many at‑home tests lack accurate detection, appropriate controls or clinically relevant markers. A high‑quality GI‑MAP gives a detailed snapshot of bacterial populations, parasites, biomarkers of inflammation, digestive function and immune activity, which can precisely guide targeted interventions.
Working with a qualified clinician ensures you interpret this data meaningfully.
“Gut health is influenced by more than just what we eat food. Stress, sleep, toxin exposure, immune dynamics — there are so many factors at play, & they don’t always act alone. Certain combinations of causes need to be addressed in a more fine-tuned way to provide real results. Helping patients create that plan is my favorite part of the job!” 
-Tricia Granchi, MSN, FNP-C

About The Author

Tricia Granchi, MSN, FNP‑C is an experienced functional medicine provider in Columbus, Ohio, specializing in gut health and gut lining repair. She believes in patient education first and treats the complete person, not just symptoms. While she prefers to help you feel better through nutrition and lifestyle where possible, she uses targeted supplements that genuinely assist, are backed by clinical reasoning and help make gut health optimization feasible within your schedule.

Tricia Granchi, MSN, Author photo

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By Tricia Granchi, MSN, FNP-C |

Most Common Health Concerns of 2025

The Chronic Concerns Patients Brought to Our Functional Medicine Team

Most common health concerns 2025

The majority of health issues patients bring to a functional medicine provider aren’t sudden or acute. They tend to be persistent, complex and deeply personal. These concerns often impact daily quality of life without ever showing up in an urgent care setting. They may not be “emergency room issues,” but they’re everyday issues, and they deserve to be taken seriously.

Here are the Most Common Health Concerns of 2025, based on real survey data submitted to the functional medicine team at Donaldson.

KEY TAKEAWAY

Patients want to lose weight. They want to balance hormones. But more than anything: They “Just want to feel better.”

#1: “I Just Want to Feel Better” (47.5% of Respondents)

This phrase is foundational to the practice of functional medicine. It captures the frustration, exhaustion and resilience of patients who have tried everything and are still left without answers.

Sometimes, they haven’t felt heard by their existing healthcare providers. Other times, their symptoms haven’t fit neatly into a traditional diagnosis. Either way, there are answers out there — and functional medicine is designed to find them.

“At the end of the day, people just want to feel better. Patients tell me it all the time; they want to be proactive about health instead of reactive about symptoms!”
-Tricia Granchi, MSN, FNP-C

Weight Loss Solutions

(42.8% of Respondents)

The rise of GLP-1 medications in 2025 brought weight loss to the forefront but many patients quickly realized that medication alone wasn’t the full answer. More people sought comprehensive care that addressed nutrition, movement, mindset and sustainability.

Functional medicine providers help patients lose weight and keep it off, without compromising long-term health.

Weight Loss

Hormone Balancing Solutions

(39.4% of Respondents)

This surge in responses reflects a growing number of women advocating for better perimenopause and menopause care. These patients want education, relief and proactive plans that make this stage of life more manageable and empowering.

It’s not just something they simply “have to get through.” They can live a full life while reducing their symptoms.

Hormone Therapy

Gut Health & GI Issues

(34.9% of Respondents) 

Chronic bloating, constipation, acid reflux and IBS can disrupt nearly every area of life — from sleep and focus to mood and energy. Functional medicine looks beyond temporary symptom relief, using advanced diagnostic testing and root-cause analysis to rebuild the gut without relying on a long list of medications, each with its own potential side effects.

Gut Health

“Online communities have been so beneficial for perimenopausal & menopausal women in recent years. They get to discuss the tough stuff — the symptoms their mothers may have suffered through in silence. They urge each other to find real solutions to get through this gracefully.”
-Tricia Granchi, MSN, FNP-C

#5: Sexual Wellness (16.2% of Respondents)

Sexual wellness is a key part of overall health. More patients are realizing that pain, incontinence or loss of desire don’t have to be accepted as normal. We offer holistic and advanced treatment options, including O-Shot therapy, diVa laser treatments and surgical interventions (when appropriate) to restore comfort and confidence.
A late-20 year old Donaldson sexual wellness patient posing at a photoshoot in 2025

Longevity & Performance

(15.3% of Respondents)

These patients aren’t waiting for symptoms to show up. They’re optimizing for vitality now! Whether it’s about sharpening cognitive function, improving sleep, recovering faster after workouts or staying sharp at work, functional medicine empowers high performers to maximize their healthspan, not just their lifespan.

Performance & Longevity

Nutrition Guidance

(11.4% of Respondents)

It may not seem as urgent as fatigue or bloating, but personalized nutrition guidance is the foundation of many patients’ long-term success. It is critical to each custom care plan we curate. Working with licensed dietitians ensures you understand your body’s needs, triggers and opportunities for improvement. That’s something an app or AI cannot do.

Dietician

Fertility Optimization

(5.5% of Respondents)

While lowest on the list, fertility remains one of the most significant concerns we address. We don’t perform IVF, but we do help prepare the body for conception by resolving nutrient deficiencies, regulating cycles and uncovering underlying health challenges impacting fertility. In some cases, this optimization eliminates the need for more invasive treatments.

Fertility Services

“Patients come to us when they want answers. Sometimes that’s in their late 20s, when they want to get ahead on their career & health. Sometimes, it is when they’re early in menopause & they want to take back control of their lives! Either way, we are here to listen first, then act proactively.”

-Tricia Granchi, MSN, FNP-C

About The Author

Tricia Granchi, MSN, FNP-C, is a functional medicine expert based in Columbus, Ohio. She specializes in building personalized wellness plans that incorporate nutrition, movement, testing, and lifestyle medicine to address complex concerns. Tricia approaches every patient with empathy and insight because sometimes the most important diagnosis is the one the patient didn’t even know they needed at first.

Tricia Granchi, MSN, FNP-C Author Photo

About The Data

Data & Methodology

The data used in this report were generated from 12 months of patient surveys submitted through the Donaldson Plastic Surgery website. More than 600 HIPAA-compliant entries were analyzed after removing patient names and any additional identifying information.

Patients were allowed to select multiple concerns, which is reflected in the data structure.

Concern % of Respondents % of All Selections
“I Just Want To Feel Better” 47.5% 22.3%
Weight Loss 42.8% 20.1%
Hormones 39.4% 18.5%
Gut Health / GI Issues 34.9% 16.4%
Sexual Wellness 16.2% 7.6%
Longevity / Performance 15.3% 7.2%
Nutrition 11.4% 5.4%
Fertility Optimization 5.5% 2.6%
If you are looking for a breakdown of exact total respondents per each health concern selection in this survey, please contact us directly.

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By Tricia Granchi, MSN, FNP-C |

What Eyes Tell About Health

Insights Into Your Well-being Through A Different Lens

What Eyes Tell About Health

You can tell a lot about a person by looking into their eyes — and we’re not just talking about if they’re holding back tears or bluffing during Blackjack. Our eyes have evolved to reveal important internal cues about hydration, brain function, cardiovascular health and more. Many of the body’s early warning signs of illness can show up in or around the eyes before we even feel sick.

Let’s look closer at what your eyes might be trying to tell you about your health.


You Can Click Ahead To Your Specific Concern:

Why Is My Eye Twitching?

That sudden, annoying flutter in your eyelid? It is called myokymia. It’s a harmless and common involuntary spasm of the eyelid muscles. Most cases of ocular myokymia are caused by stress, fatigue, caffeine and/or digital eye strain.

Persistent or severe eye twitching can sometimes point to underlying neurological issues like multiple sclerosis, Bell’s palsy or even early signs of a movement disorder, though these are far less common.

A woman using her ipad at the side of her bed during the day

How Can I Make My Eye Stop Twitching?

Try making a few lifestyle changes to ease the twitching:

  • Get More Sleep: Fatigue is one of the most common causes of myokymia.
  • Reduce Caffeine Intake: Stimulants can overexcite nerve endings.
  • Apply a Warm Compress: This relaxes the eyelid muscles.
  • Limit Screen Time: Blue light and digital strain are known triggers.
  • Manage Stress: Incorporate stress-reducing habits like breathwork or journaling.
  • Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can worsen nerve sensitivity and muscle spasms.

When Should I See A Doctor About Eye Twitching?

If your twitching lasts for more than a few weeks, affects other areas of your face, or is paired with muscle weakness, it’s worth discussing with your doctor. A functional medicine provider can also help evaluate if chronic stress, micronutrient deficiencies or nervous system dysregulation are contributing to the issue.

Close up photo of a patient with healthy sclera coloring

What Is The Sclera?

The sclera is the white outer layer of your eyeball — and it’s more than just cosmetic. It protects the inner eye and provides structure. While its baseline color is naturally influenced by genetics and age, significant changes in tone can point to lifestyle factors like smoking, nutrition or underlying health conditions.

“Sometimes, I can predict the symptoms a patient is about to describe just by looking at the color of their sclera or the subtle signs of chronic fatigue around their eyes. The body has such a way of revealing what’s going on internally!”

-Tricia Granchi, MSN | Functional Medicine Expert

What Different Sclera Tones Mean

  • Yellow: May indicate jaundice, liver dysfunction or gallbladder issues.
  • Blue: Often seen in children or those with brittle bone disease; can reflect collagen or iron deficiency.
  • Red: Typically caused by irritation, dryness or broken blood vessels from strain.
  • Brown: Pigmented spots may be harmless but should be checked for melanoma risk.
  • Gray: Can be a sign of aging, anemia or high cholesterol deposits.
  • Bright White: A sign of good hydration, oxygenation and general health

A Note About Specialized Eye Whitening & Brightening Drops

Products like Lumify (brimonidine tartrate) and Upneeq (oxymetazoline hydrochloride) are generally safe for occasional use and can effectively reduce redness and other common cosmetic concerns. However, frequent use may mask underlying issues like chronic irritation, inflammation or allergic response. If your eyes are persistently red — especially alongside discomfort, dryness or vision changes — it’s best to identify the root cause rather than rely on cosmetic solutions.

When Should I See A Doctor About Eye Discoloration?

Slight discoloration often isn’t a big deal but if you notice yellowing, brown spots or cloudiness paired with fatigue, pain or blurred vision, it’s time to get evaluated. These can be early signs of liver dysfunction, blood disorders or autoimmune conditions.

Functional medicine providers are especially skilled at looking deeper into the root causes when conventional labs come back “normal” but symptoms persist.

What Causes Chronic Dry Eyes?

Dry eyes can stem from environmental irritants, screen time, aging and contact lens use. But they may also signal autoimmune conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome or thyroid disease. Inflammation, poor sleep hygiene and even hormonal changes can also play a role.

Is It Bad To Use Eye Drops Every Day?

Over-the-counter lubricating drops are generally safe, but using decongestant drops (like “get-the-red-out” formulas) too often can cause rebound redness and irritation. If you find yourself reaching for drops daily, it’s a sign to look deeper. Also, it is vital to follow the established instructions for each dry eye product to achieve the desired results instead of just using the product as needed.

“I often urge patients to take occasional breaks and pay close attention to how their bodies respond without these products.”

-Tricia Granchi, MSN | Functional Medicine Expert

When Should I See A Doctor About My Dry Eyes?

If symptoms persist for more than a few days, are accompanied by pain or vision changes, or worsen at night, schedule a checkup. You may need a more holistic treatment approach beyond artificial tears.

Why Does My Vision Change?

Vision changes can occur for a variety of reasons. Some are benign. Some are more serious. Here’s what different symptoms might mean:

  • Blurry When Standing Up: May be a sign of low blood pressure or dehydration.
  • Looks Like Static: Could be visual snow syndrome or ocular migraines.
  • Gets Worse Throughout The Day: Eye fatigue, often from screen overuse.
  • Gets Blurry At Night: Poor night vision can stem from vitamin A deficiency or cataracts.
  • Goes Black Randomly: Seek immediate care — this can signal a retinal detachment or stroke.
  • Turns Green In The Dark: Could relate to light scatter from minor corneal changes.
  • Changes With A Migraine: Visual aura often occurs before or during a migraine.

 

Tricia Granchi, MSN, FNP-C Author

About The Author

Tricia Granchi, MSN, FNP-C, is an experienced functional medicine expert in Columbus, Ohio. She creates holistic solutions that address the root cause of patient health concerns instead of just treating the initial symptoms — many of which include functional and cosmetic eye issues. With a deep understanding of hormone optimization, nutrition and gut health, Tricia believes that when systems like hormone function and nutrient absorption are dialed in, the body becomes better equipped to heal. And the results often show up in the eyes first!

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By Tricia Granchi, MSN, FNP-C |

Best Time To Take Supplements

The 7 Most Popular Dietary Supplements & When To Take Them

Best Time To Take Supplements

What you take matters when building a smart wellness routine — but when you take it can make all the difference. Certain nutrients are better absorbed in the evening with healthy fats, while others should be used in the morning to avoid potential stimulant effects. Our guide breaks down the most common nutrient supplements we’ve seen used and the best time to take supplements to optimize their impact throughout your day.

Remember: Supplements Should Bridge A Need’s Gap, Not Replace Diet

Supplements are just that — a supplement. They are meant to temporarily support nutrition, especially when you’re facing a deficiency or struggling to get key nutrients through food. These bottles are a bridge, not a replacement!” 

-Tricia Granchi, MSN, FNP-C

Quick Supplement Facts

The Top Daily Supplements & What They Do For Us

Protein 

20 - 30g per meal

Muscle repair, satiety & metabolic support

Magnesium

Dose: 300 - 400 mg 

Nerve function, muscle relation & sleep support

Vitamin D

Dose: 600 - 800 IU 

Bone health, immune support & mood regulation

Vitamin B12

Dose: 2.4 mcg 

Energy metabolism, red blood cell formation & brain function

Zinc 

Dose: 8 - 11 mg

Immune defense, wound healing & hormone production

Iron

Dose: 8 - 18 mg 

Oxygen transport, energy levels & red blood cell creation

Omega-3 (EPA/DHA)

Dose: 250 - 500 mg (combined EPA + DHA)

Heart health, brain function & inflammation reduction

The Best Time To Take Protein

Before Workouts/Throughout The Day

The best time to take protein is within 30 minutes after strength training to support muscle repair and recovery. If you’re not working out that day, spacing your protein intake evenly across meals helps with satiety and maintaining lean muscle mass.

The Best Time To Take Magnesium

30 – 60 Minutes Before Bed

Take magnesium in the evening or about 30 minutes before bed to promote muscle relaxation and better sleep quality. It pairs well with routine vitamin D usage but doesn’t have to be taken at the same time. Magnesium can be taken with food to support optimal absorption and minimize stomach upset, especially in the early stages of using the supplement.

The Best Time To Take Vitamin D

Morning / Early Afternoon, With Healthy Fats

Vitamin D is best taken in the morning or early afternoon with a meal that contains healthy fats, since it’s a fat-soluble vitamin. Pairing it with routine usage of magnesium may support more effective conversion and absorption in the body.

More Nutrients That Complement Each Other

Donaldson functional nutrition patient in her home

The Best Time To Take B12

Early Morning / Avoid At Night

Vitamin B12 is best taken in the morning on an empty stomach or with a light meal to support energy levels and mental clarity throughout the day. Because it can be stimulating for some people, it’s best to avoid it later in the evening.

The Best Time To Take Zinc

With Breakfast or Lunch

Zinc is best taken with a meal (but not dairy or high-calcium foods) to reduce the risk of nausea and improve absorption. Morning or lunchtime dosing works well for most people, especially when paired with a nutrient-rich meal.

Patient taking her iron supplement in the morning

The Best Time To Take Iron

Morning, Without Caffeine 

Iron is best taken in the morning on an empty stomach, ideally alongside vitamin C to boost absorption — think: “orange juice and your supplement.” Just avoid pairing it with calcium or caffeine, which can block its uptake. Wait at least 30 minutes after your iron supplement to pick up your coffee (if you can wait that long)!

The Best Time To Take Omega-3

Lunch, Dinner or Early Evening 

Omega-3 supplements are best taken with a main meal that includes fat, typically lunch or dinner, to improve absorption and reduce the chance of the notorious “fishy burps.” Evening dosing may also support inflammation control overnight and contribute to overall heart health.

Nutritionist’s Note: You May Not Need These Supplements!

Not every body needs every supplement. These are simply the most commonly used due to nutrient gaps often seen in American diets, especially here in the Midwest. In some cases, taking too much of a certain nutrient can do more harm than good, so it’s important to supplement with intention. For example, too much vitamin D can cause heart palpitations, nausea, weakness and a toxic build-up of calcium in the blood called “hypercalcemia.”

Always consult with your primary care doctor or a licensed functional medicine provider to make sure your supplement routine is safe, effective and personalized to your needs, while ensuring your supplements are sourced from quality manufacturers.


About The Author

Tricia Granchi, MSN, FNP-C, is a certified functional medicine expert in Columbus, Ohio. She helps patients improve their quality of life by identifying the root causes of discomfort and chronic conditions before creating custom lifestyle plans that address those core causes. Tricia believes food and movement can be used as medicine — and that it is completely safe and valid to leverage high-quality supplements as a short-term tool while patients reintroduce the nutrients their bodies have been missing.

Tricia Granchi, MSN, FNP-C Author Photo

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