In a seemingly ideal lifestyle, free from environmental toxins and stress, with a perfect diet sourced directly from nature, supplements might be unnecessary. However, Dr. Mark Hyman notes that such conditions are rare and impractical for most people today.

Given modern dietary and environmental challenges, Dr. Hyman outlines why supplementation becomes essential for optimal health. He addresses the widespread nutrient deficiencies affecting nearly 95% of the U.S. population and globally, suggesting that supplements can help fill these gaps.

Dr. Hyman strongly advocates for testing before starting any supplement regimen. Without it, supplementing is compared to "throwing darts blindfolded," potentially leading to unnecessary expenses and inefficacy. He recommends working with healthcare providers to tailor supplemental needs based on individual biological markers.

Recognizing that not all health practitioners are open to comprehensive testing, Dr. Hyman introduces Function Health, offering detailed assessments for over 110 biomarkers to empower patient-driven health choices.

• Multivitamins: Protect against common deficiencies and support overall health. Evidence suggests they can improve brain health and slow cognitive decline.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Important for brain function, reducing inflammation, and maintaining heart health.
• Vitamin D: Contributes significantly to immune health, especially highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Magnesium: Supports numerous biochemical reactions; deficiencies are linked to anxiety, sleep disorders, and more.
• Probiotics: Enhance gut microbiome balance, which is crucial for overall health and immune system.

For those on plant-based diets, supplementing B12, iron, and vitamin D is often necessary due to their limited presence in non-animal products. Dr. Hyman emphasizes the importance of monitoring levels to prevent deficiencies.

Despite dietary sources, over 90% of Americans consume insufficient omega-3s due to dietary patterns skewed towards processed omega-6 fats. Supplementation with high-quality fish oil or algae-based sources for vegetarians and vegans is advised to rectify imbalance.

Aside from the basics, Dr. Hyman speaks to additional supplements like creatine, which supports muscle health and insulin sensitivity. Creatine is well-researched for its effectiveness alongside resistance training.

Supplements should not replace whole foods but act to complement them in creating a balanced diet crucial for achieving optimal health.

Dr. Hyman concludes by underscoring that while these supplement suggestions are general, individual needs can vary significantly and should be addressed through personalized testing. Function Health offers a solution by providing comprehensive biomarker profiles, allowing personalized supplement regimens that cater to specific needs.