Whole Food Supplements – Do we REALLY need them?

I have always been of the belief that all our bodies could possibly need can be found in food.  I have never really been a big vitamin-taker.  When my pediatrician wanted me to start giving my daughter iron-fortified vitamin drops, I told her that I didn't want to do that.  Instead I wanted to give her beef liver.  She looked at me funny, of course, but in the end didn't have a problem with that.  

You see, minerals and vitamins found in whole foods are there for a reason.  They exist in harmony with many other vitamins and minerals and are much better absorbed by our bodies when consumed in their whole state.  The iron present in beef liver is much more readily absorbed by our bodies than the iron in vitamin drops.  

So, do we REALLY need supplements?

If our world were perfect, I don't think we would.  In a perfect world we would buy foods from our local farms (or grow the food ourselves), we would eat lots of fermented foods, avoid processed foods, and eat organ meats!  Eating food would be simple and incredibly nourishing, and not so complicated!!

I am not discounting those who suffer from a medical condition or deficiency that require supplementation.  By all means, please follow your doctor's advice!

That being said, I do believe there are certain supplements that provide my family great value and benefit.  I provide my family with whole food supplements complete with their synergistic vitamins and minerals.  Real food, but concentrated!

Kelly's Favorite Supplements

Fermented Cod Liver Oil

Our family takes fermented cod liver oil daily.  Everyone gets a spoonful at breakfast!  For centuries, people have been reaping the benefits that Fermented Cod Liver Oil has to offer. Fermented Cod Liver Oil contains many nutrients that are vital for the body, mind and spirit of people of all ages. This sacred oil is so beneficial because it contains high concentrations of DHA, EPA, Vitamin A and Vitamin D. 

DHA is a fatty acid that is essential to the health of the human nervous system and eyes. DHA is also vital for preventing depression and other mood disorders. Women who are pregnant should include plenty of DHA in their diet to ensure proper development of their baby’s nervous system. A diet containing an abundance of DHA may even prevent post partum depression. 

EPA is a fatty acid that decreases inflammation throughout the body. Its anti-inflammatory properties are especially helpful to those suffering from arthritis, joint or muscle pain. Many studies show that EPA can play a strong role in preventing depression, both chronic and intermittent. EPA also promotes a healthy cardiovascular system. 

Vitamin A is a vital nutrient that is necessary for proper vision and healthy skin. Vitamin A also ensures strong mucosal linings, which is crucial for the health of the digestive track. 

Vitamin D helps children build strong bones and prevents osteoporosis in adults. This is because Vitamin D is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth. Vitamin D also strengthens and enhances the immune system and decreases the risk of developing autoimmune conditions. Vitamin D also regulates blood sugar which may prevent type 2 diabetes. This essential vitamin may even play a role in preventing virtually every type of cancer. 

Fermented Cod Liver Oil is also an excellent source of Omega 3 Fatty Acids. These fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties which may help relieve the symptoms of arthritis, reduce stress, prevent allergies, relieve asthma, improve brain function and help with learning and behavioral disorders including bipolar syndrome. 

Generally speaking, Fermented Cod Liver Oil contains a much higher concentration of DHA, EPA, Vitamin A, Vitamin D and Omega 3 Fatty Acids than Cod Liver Oil that has been processed with heat or chemicals.  This is good, good food and I don't want our family to miss out on its amazing benefits!

Desiccated Liver

Ounce per ounce, grass-fed beef liver is one of the most nutrient dense foods in the entire world. Dr. Weston A. Price, and healthy cultures throughout history, have praised the amazing health benefits of liver. Though once a kitchen staple and weekly meal, liver has nearly disappeared from the modern diet.  I like to serve my family liver at least once a month, sometimes more.  However, that doesn't always happen.  This is where desiccated liver fills in the gaps.  

Desiccated Liver is grass-fed beef liver in its purest form; non-defatted and as close to nature as possible. Some people believe that liver stores toxins, when in fact, the liver filters toxins and stores vitamins and minerals. Because of its function, liver is one of the most nutrient dense superfoods in existence. 

Health benefits of desiccated liver: 

• Nutrient Dense Source of Naturally Occurring High Quality Protein
• Highest Concentrated Source of Vitamin A Found in Nature
• High Content of All B Vitamins, including B12
• Potent Source of Folic Acid
• Highly Bioavailable Form of Iron
• Good Source of Naturally Occurring Copper, Zinc, and Chromium 
• High Content of Cardio-Vascular Function Boosting CoQ10
• Helps Repair DNA and RNA 
• Boosts Energy

To get all of the benefits of fresh grass fed liver in a convenient capsule, simply choose a high quality desiccated beef liver supplement sourced only from healthy and happy cows.  

You guys, this is the EASIEST way to get liver, and all of its wonderful nutritious goodness, into our bodies.  If organ meat make you squeamish, desiccated liver is for you.  

Beef Gelatin

Gelatin is good, good stuff folks.  I wrote about it a while ago when I mentioned how I add it to my coffee. Gelatin is pure protein that is perfect for healing and conditioning bones and joints and improving overall health.  We get some gelatin from the bone broth that I make on a regular basis.  But since I really want to reap the benefits, I like to add it wherever I can.

Some gelatin benefits:

• Promotes Healthy Bones and Joints 
• Promotes Healthy Metabolism
• Promotes Healthy Skin, Hair, and Nails 
• Contains 90% Protein 
• Highly Digestible and Bioavailable Nutrients 
• Rapid Absorption Rate 
• Room Temperature – Hot Water Soluble 
• Gelatin from Grass Fed Cows 
• Minimally Processed 
• Gluten Free

Probiotics

We consume fermented foods on a regular basis to ensure that our gut is populated with a whole host of beneficial bacteria.  I am a big believer that health and wellness begins in the gut.  Our gut flora is responsible for a healthy immune system, so making sure that beneficial bacteria are abundant and present is high on my priority list.  If you have taken antibiotics, or any other prescribed drug, was formula fed as a baby, or have a compromised immune system, a regular probiotic regimen can help bring your gut flora back into balance.

Some other benefits from regular probiotic consumption include: 

• Increase Healthy Gastrointestinal Micro-Flora
• Promotes a Healthy Gastro-Intestinal Environment
• Relieves Occasional Abdominal Discomfort and Bloating
• Alleviates Occasional Indigestion and Nausea
• Promotes a Normal Bowel Pattern
• Boost the Immune System 
• Support Overall Wellness and Vitality

So, where do I get all of our supplements?

When I first began my search for quality supplements, I found that I was buying them from several different vendors.  That was all fine and dandy, but I was also paying shipping for several different vendors.  Is there a place where I can get ALL of my supplements and pay shipping just once??  

Yes.  Yes there is.  It turns out there is the perfect place for me to get all of my favorite supplements in one place.  And that place is, Perfect Supplements.  Have you heard of this wonderful company yet?  Lots and lots of good stuff.  

And guess what, Oh Lardy fans, Perfect Supplements is giving YOU 10% off of your entire order!  

Simply enter the code OHLARDY10 at checkout!

Pin it!