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Tips and Tricks for Sticking to a Supplement Routine

Keep the fridge stocked with organic food: check. Venture out for a daily walk: done. Get eight hours of quality sleep: easy. Take my daily vitamins: oops. 

We get it. Life is busy. Between work, family obligations, and all the other activities that make up your day, self-care often is the first to take a backseat. Here’s an important tip: supplements are only effective if you take them. As much as we wish you could get the benefits simply by looking at them, it just doesn’t work that way. 

Rest assured: You are not alone in your struggle to remember your daily dose of health. We’ve put together some helpful tips to make it easier to stay on track with your supplement routine.

Medication (and supplement) adherence: a universal problem  

The story is similar for many: We meet with a health practitioner on a quest to feel better and improve our health. With medication recommendations in hand, we purchase it, bring it home, and begin taking it. We are ready to feel great and are excited to see results. 

A few days, or even weeks, go by, and we are staring at the bottle, thinking, “I should really start taking that again.” Enough time passes, and you wonder if it’s even relevant anymore. The bottle goes into the closet with the dozens of other half-filled containers, only to expire down the road.

 Studies show that approximately only half of individuals suffering from a chronic illness take their medication as prescribed. This is not just an American problem either. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that only 50 percent of patients take their medication properly.

Researchers have also found low adherence in the very few studies on vitamin and supplement compliance. Actual supplement compliance is challenging to measure since many studies rely on self-report, and not everyone is willing to admit their weaknesses.

Why is it so challenging to take my supplements? 

We know that vitamins and supplements are good for us, so why is it challenging to take them? While factors may vary from person to person, the number one reason people don’t take their supplements is simply forgetfulness. Possible other reasons include: 

  • Lack of motivation – Motivation is the number one factor that leads to success. An individual’s desire to achieve wellness significantly impacts their compliance to a health regimen. 
  • Misunderstanding – Frequently, individuals don’t fully understand the importance of a supplement or its dosing schedule. As a result, they sometimes forgo it altogether. 
  • Unwanted side effects – Medications and supplements sometimes have undesirable side effects. For example, taking certain vitamins on an empty stomach can contribute to nausea. Many times, people decide to take them later and subsequently forget. 
  • Current lack of symptoms – Motivation to take vitamins increases when we are not feeling well. However, the moment we begin to feel better, it’s easy to dismiss their value. Unfortunately, as quickly as you felt better, you could also feel unwell again. 
  • Fear or worry – Many individuals have fear or anxiety over taking supplements and vitamins. Will they interact with other medications or supplements? Will they lead to different problems? Talking with your doctor about your concerns can quickly put your mind at ease. 

The 21-day habit myth

Has anyone ever told you that it takes 21 days to form a new habit? So if you take your supplements for 21 days straight, you will never forget them again, right? Maybe. Maybe not. 

The 21-day habit folklore originated from the 1960’s book Psycho-Cybernetics, by plastic surgeon Maxwell Maltz. Dr. Maltz observed in his medical practice that it took a minimum of 21 days for new habits to truly solidify in our brain. Unfortunately, his assertions were anecdotal only, with no scientific basis. However, as his book sold more copies, society quickly jumped on board. 

The truth is, there is no magic number of days that guarantee you will form a habit. Sure, repetition makes things easier over time, but everyone is different. In fact, a 2009 study found that it can take anywhere from 18 to 254 days for adopted behaviors to feel second nature. 

There are many ways to help habit-formation. One way includes tying a new habit to an already existing one. For example, if you want to increase your water intake, you might drink a glass of water every morning when you brush your teeth. Other ways to solidify habits include rewarding yourself, finding someone to help you be accountable, and setting an achievable goal. 

Is it a big deal if I miss a supplement here or there?

Believe it or not, humans are innately creatures of habit. Our bodies like routine. Perhaps this is why we wake up at 6:30 on a rainy Saturday morning, despite our desire to sleep late. 

Taking supplements at approximately the same time every day helps our bodies know what to expect. The functions of the human body are very dependent on a 24-hour cycle, called circadian rhythm. 

While much more research is needed, scientists have found that taking medications at certain times throughout the day can improve their efficacy. The practice is called chronotherapy. It’s unknown if the same positive effects could occur with supplements and vitamins, but it’s probable. 

Missing an occasional supplement is unlikely to cause significant harm. However, you may lose out on the health benefits of regular use. 

We’ve developed the following nine tips to make your supplement routine second nature. 

9 ways to stick to your supplement routine

Location, location, location

If your vitamins are sitting inside your bathroom closet, you are less likely to take them. Keeping your supplements in a place where you will see them increases the odds of compliance. A great location is the kitchen. Not only do most people spend lots of time there, but supplements can be a great conversation starter. Your friends will want to hear all about your health. You would be doing them a favor in sharing your journey!

Use technology to your advantage

We are the first to tell you to limit your use of technology. After all, too much screen time is detrimental to your health. However, technology can be beneficial in certain instances, such as this one. 

An online calendar is a helpful way to remind yourself to take your vitamins and help you stick to your supplement routine. Most calendars offer a way to personalize and automate your reminders. For example, if you want to take your supplements with breakfast, you can set your calendar to remind you fifteen minutes beforehand. 

If an online calendar is not your thing, you could set a phone alarm – or any alarm for that matter! The great thing about a phone alarm is that it’s possible to select multiple alarms in one day. If you take supplements more than once, this could be helpful. 

Finally, if technology is your jam, there are a handful of online medication reminder apps that alert you when a vitamin or supplement is due and help you track your compliance. 

Pack them with your lunch

Not everyone loves taking vitamins first thing in the morning. One way to ensure that you don’t forget a dose is to pack them with your lunch. You may even want to leave yourself a love note reminding you to take your goodies. 

Use a pillbox

Pillboxes are a great way to stay organized and ensure that you don’t miss any supplement doses. Many people prefer to prepare their pillboxes at the beginning of the week. This way, they don’t have to open a bottle again for another seven days. If it worked for Grandpa, it might just work for you! 

Buy multiple bottles

Keep a bottle at home, one at work, one in your bag. That way, no matter where you go, you are never without. Having your vitamins around you increases the likelihood of taking them. If you forget a dose at home, you can take one as soon as you remember. Just be sure not to leave vitamins in a hot car or next to electronics. 

Use good-ol’ paper

Some of us do better with handwritten reminders. A weekly planner is an excellent place to write supplement reminders. Alternatively, you can make yourself a to-do list. Better yet, sticky notes are a great way to remind yourself to keep up with your supplement routine. Stick them on the bathroom mirror, the refrigerator, the car dashboard, or your coffee pot. Making coffee? Did you drink your greens first? 

Keep them on your nightstand

Some supplements are best kept on your nightstand. This is especially true for those you take before bedtime or on an empty stomach. Your nightstand could be the perfect location for thyroid supplements, such as Thyrokick, or natural blood thinners like Flow.

Partner-up

Accountability buddies work well in other areas of life, so why not with vitamins and supplements? By identifying someone in your life to work with, you will improve your consistency and deepen your bond. 

Send a quick text to your spouse reminding them to take their vitamins to help you stick to your supplement routine. Ask your kids to give you a friendly reminder. Enlist your best friend to call you daily. Those in your life who love you will want to see you succeed in health. 

Prioritize YOU

You do so much for others in your life; now it’s time to take care of yourself. After all, you can only help others when you are at your best. Don’t think of taking your supplements as an annoying chore. Instead, change your perspective. 

Find gratitude in your ability to choose this path. You have the financial resources to obtain the supplements. You are committed to your end goal of achieving optimal health. Consider taking your vitamins as a form of self-care, and you likely won’t feel the need to set multiple reminders for yourself.

Health is more than supplements and vitamins

While taking supplements will undoubtedly improve your health, the goal is deeper than that. We want you to find your true value again. Establishing and sticking to a supplement routine reinforces in your own mind that you are worth it. And you are! 

Next steps

It’s all well and good to learn tips and tricks to get on a regular supplement routine but what if you don’t know which supplements you should even be taking? Considering your options can be overwhelming and it’s hard to know what supplements and companies to trust. The experts at Natural Heart Doctor would love to help you identify what supplements and testing you might need to move forward on your 100 Year Heart journey.

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About Dr. Lauren Lattanza NMD, FACC

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Dr. Lauren Lattanza Fees

20 Minute Virtual Call: $250

Initial In-Person Appointment:

Follow Up In-Person Appointment:       

As a Naturopathic Physician, I am trained to treat the whole person and get to the root cause of disease.

I went to Arizona State University where I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a depth in physiology and minor in Spanish. After my undergraduate degree I was working on prerequisite classes towards medical school, which is when I came to learn that my values identified best with the principles of naturopathic medicine. I knew that I wanted to help patients identify the causes of disease and be able to offer treatments which would improve their health rather than simply treating symptoms.

I dedicated the next 4 years to the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in Tempe, Arizona where I attained my Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine. I served as Class President all 4 years, Board of Trustees – Student Trustee, spoke as the Club President for our branch of Toastmasters, and was voted by my peers and attending physicians to earn the Outstanding Leadership Award for the Class of 2020. Throughout medical school I took it upon myself to work alongside MDs, DOs, chiropractors, and functional medicine practitioners in addition to naturopathic physicians.

As a Spanish speaking student, I was able to volunteer with community clinics around Phoenix and provide free healthcare to low-income families. Due to this combined exposure, I came to find my passion in treating cardiometabolic and digestive disorders that are all too common, yet largely preventable. I took the opportunity to learn the broad spectrum of healthcare so I can ensure that I am able to provide my patients with the best options.

About Dr. Jack Wolfson DO, FACC

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Dr. Jack Wolfson Fees

30 Minute Virtual Call: $1500

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Dr. Jack Wolfson is a board-certified cardiologist, Amazon best-selling author, husband, father, and the nation’s #1 Natural Heart Doctor.

For more than two decades, more than one million people have enjoyed the warmth, compassion, and transformational power of his natural heart health courses and events.

Dr. Wolfson is the founder of Natural Heart Doctor Scottsdale, his heart health practice in Arizona, and Natural Heart Doctor, an online resource center with natural health information. Doctors from across the globe reach out to Dr. Wolfson for training and education in holistic health practices.

He has been named one of America’s Top Functional Medicine Doctors and is a five-time winner of the Natural Choice Awards as a holistic M.D. Dr. Wolfson’s work has been covered by more than 100 media outlets, including NBC, CNN, and the Washington Post. His book “The Paleo Cardiologist: The Natural Way to Heart Health” was an Amazon #1 best-seller.

Dr. Wolfson and his wife Heather have four children and are committed to making the world a better place to live. They provide for those in need (including animals) and support natural health causes through their philanthropic efforts.

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Our chiropractor is an expert at adjustments and holistic chiropractic care and works closely in conjunction with the other health care experts at Natural Heart Doctor.

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We use specially formulated natural vitamins and minerals that are injected into a vein to prevent or treat dehydration. Ideal for people in Arizona.

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Stimulate your body’s natural healing abilities and promote physical and emotional well-being with acupuncture at Natural Heart Doctor.

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Our health coaches use evidence based skillful conversation, clinical interventions, and strategies to engage you actively and safely in health behavior changes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

I’d like to receive an online second opinion from Natural Heart Doctor. What do I do next?

You can initiate a second opinion online through our website at any time. To begin, select the team member you’d like to speak with and open an account.

Click here for cardiologist Dr. Jack Wolfson.

Naturopathic Medical Doctor Dr. Lauren Lattanza. Get details.

Naturopathic Medical Doctor Dr. Tonia Rainier. Get details.

Click here for  Natural Heart Doctor Health Coach.

Alternatively, you can email health@naturalheartdoctor.com. A member of our care team will help guide you through the process of starting a second opinion.

What is the cost of a Natural Heart Doctor Online Second Opinion?

The cost for most second opinions varies by team member. This fee includes information collection, a phone or video consultation, a second opinion from a Natural Heart Doctor specialist and guidance throughout the process from your personal Care Team at Natural Heart Doctor.

Cardiologist Dr. Jack Wolfson’s Second Opinion Fee is $1500.

Holistic Physician’s Dr. Lauren Lattanza’s Second Opinion Fee is $250.

Naturopathic Physician Dr. Tonia Rainier’s Second Opinion Fee is $250.

Note: We apply the Online Second Opinion Call fee as a credit to any future consultations with Natural Heart Doctor, should you choose them.

Will my insurance cover the cost of a Natural Heart Doctor Online Second Opinion?

Most likely, no. Most health plans do not cover online second opinions or consultations. You are responsible for the cost of our second opinion. Natural Heart Doctor cannot file a claim with your insurance carrier, nor can we provide a procedure (CPT) code for this service.

What is the timeline to receive an online second opinion?

We do our best to schedule your second opinion as quickly as possible. Typically, it takes 5 to 7 business days after your information has been collected to receive your phone or video online second opinion.

What information do you need in advance of our call?

Our office will send you a short questionnaire to complete and return. We DO NOT need your complete medical records.

How many questions can I ask the expert during our call?

You may ask a maximum of five questions. This is to ensure that the expert has sufficient time to devote to each question. All questions must be finalized before your online meeting.

What should I expect to receive once my second opinion is complete?

You will receive a summary of our discussion along with our second opinion. The second opinion will be in written form. After you have reviewed the second opinion, a Natural Heart Doctor clinician will follow up with you by phone to address general medical questions about the information provided in the second opinion.

What if I have follow-up questions for the expert after I have reviewed my second opinion?

If you have a clarifying question about an expert’s response to one of the questions in your second opinion, and the Natural Heart Doctor clinician is unable to address it, then you may request a follow up session for an additional fee. 

Is my medical and payment information secure?

Natural Heart Doctor is strongly committed to protecting the privacy and security of all our patients. Our website meets all federal requirements for protecting personal health information under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). All financial transactions are processed by Natural Heart Doctor securely using industry standard payment processing tools.

I would rather visit Natural Heart Doctor for an in-person appointment. What should I do next?

If you would prefer an in-person appointment at Natural Heart Doctor instead of an online second opinion, please call (480) 535-6844 for details and scheduling.

Can I schedule a follow up appointment with the specialist who provided my online second opinion?

Yes, we’re happy to help you on an extended basis. Our clinician can discuss options with you when presenting our second opinion summary.