Our bodies are generally resilient and adaptable. Yet there are reasons why we might be deficient in some important nutrients.

For one, the nutrient contents of our food can vary and is often lower than we might think. Second, our needs vary. For example, when healthy, maybe 2000 mg a day of vitamin C is all our body needs. But with a cold or flu, our needs might jump to 20,000 mg a day or more.

Also consider that exposure to toxins in dentistry and elsewhere causes an elevated need for certain nutrients.  This is where supplements can play a huge role in our pursuit of health.

One major factor that influences our nutrient needs is heavy metal toxicity, namely mercury. Mercury alters mineral balance and enzyme function in some surprising and insidious ways. Mercury can displace iron, copper, zinc, magnesium, and more. Mercury can deplete selenium. Mercury creates free radicals and oxidants, depleting glutathione. All this leads to oxidative stress, nutrient deficiencies, and eventually chronic illness. Therefore it is wise to mitigate the toxic effects of heavy metals with nutrients until such time as our exposure to these toxins is eliminated.

A good supplement regimen can make a huge difference in day-to-day health. If one is exposed to mercury, supplements should be started immediately and continued throughout the detox journey. If you are familiar with the Andy Cutler Chelation protocol, you already know about the "Core 4." You can read more about this in the ACC FB forum, but basically the Core 4 is vitamin C, vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc. In addition, selenium is recommended with the core 4, so perhaps it should be called the "core 5."

I'll go into detail with each of these supplements in future posts, or in-person.

For some discounted prices on supplements, you can access our online dispensary here:

Here you can find my "Health Basics" protocol on Fullscript with specific dosage recommendations.