The Question I Get All the Time
“What supplements do you actually use?”
Not what’s trending.
Not what’s viral.
What I trust enough to use consistently in real life.
As a physician, fitness professional, and busy working mom, I don’t have the bandwidth for guesswork. I also don’t believe supplements should be treated like magic solutions. So instead of starting with product lists, I want to start with something more important:
How I think about supplements at all.
This post is the first in a Teeny Dose series where we zoom out, establish a framework, and then gradually narrow in on specific tools that can support performance and wellness when used intentionally.
First, a Reality Check
Supplements are not the foundation.
They do not replace:
- sleep
- nutrition
- movement
- stress management
- consistency
If those things are missing, supplements won’t fix it.
Where supplements can be useful is when life is busy, energy demands are high, or training and recovery need additional support. In those situations, the goal isn’t more—it’s appropriate.
The Problem With the Supplement Industry
The supplement space is confusing on purpose.
Some of the most common issues I see:
- Proprietary blends that hide ingredient doses
- Underdosing to keep formulas cheap
- Overstimulation marketed as “energy”
- Trend-driven ingredients with limited clinical relevance
From a medical standpoint, that lack of transparency is a problem. If you’re putting something in your body regularly, you should know what it is and why it’s there.
My Personal Framework for Choosing Supplements
This is the same filter I use for myself and explain to patients and clients who ask where to start.
1. Transparency
If I can’t clearly see what’s in it and at what dose, I’m not interested.
2. Reasonable Dosing
More isn’t better. Effective and tolerable is better.
3. Consistency
I’m not interested in hopping from product to product. Sustainability matters.
4. Support, Not Substitution
Supplements should support the work you’re already doing—not compensate for what’s missing.
This approach keeps things simple and avoids decision fatigue.
Where NutraBio Fits Into This Approach
One brand that aligns with these standards for me is NutraBio.
I’ve used NutraBio products for years because they emphasize:
- full label transparency
- clearly disclosed ingredient amounts
- consistency across formulations
That matters to me both professionally and personally. I don’t view supplements as shortcuts—I view them as tools that should earn their place.
For readers who ask where to explore options that meet these standards, this is one place to start:
👉 https://rstr.co/nutrabiolabs/drshari
You can also use code drshari at checkout.
As always, supplements are not medical treatment. If you have specific health conditions or questions, talk with your own care team.
What This Series Will Cover Next
This post is intentionally broad. Future Teeny Dose entries will narrow in, including:
- Protein powders: who they help (and who doesn’t need them)
- Creatine: what the research actually supports
- Mass gainers: when they make sense—and when they don’t
- Supplements I don’t prioritize (and why)
- How I think about supplementation differently for women, athletes, and busy professionals
Each post will stay practical, evidence-informed, and focused on clarity—not persuasion.
The Teeny Dose Takeaway
You don’t need everything.
You don’t need trends.
You need clear standards and consistent habits.
That’s how sustainable wellness is built—one small, informed decision at a time.
Disclosure
Some links in this post are affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase through them—at no additional cost to you. I only share brands I personally use or trust based on my professional standards. Affiliate relationships do not influence the educational content of Teeny Dose.
TeenyDose is your resource for navigating the healthcare world. Providing tips for patients who seek help with medical questions and for providers who need resources to help their patients best. This does not qualify as medical advice. This is general information that is not specific to you and should you have any specific concerns, please discuss with your primary care professional. If you love what you read here, don’t be selfish. Share it with your friends. We would love to hear from you if you have suggestions or wish to be a contributor. Visit www.shariandrews.com and www.peakpulse.health for wellness solutions and personalized concierge services. I’m your partner in prioritizing health and making sense of your healthcare journey.
