Supplement Suggestions from Dr. Julien:

Supplements are minerals, vitamins, or other nutrients normally found in a healthy diet.  Due to food processing and the generally poor quality of our diets, much of our food supply is depleted of these vital nutrients.

Supplements are not meant to replace a basic healthy diet of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein sources.  Rather, the function is to act as an "insurance policy" against any areas of deficiency, and in some cases to treat health conditions instead of or in addition to prescription medications.

Below is a list of common Supplements Recommended by Dr. Julien:

Multivitamin- Recommended for all kids.  Flintstones, Centrum or any other brand is advised once children can safely chew and swallow.

Probiotic-  These are live, healthy bacteria that normally live in our intestines.  They help our immune system function well and prevent allergies and eczema.  They can also help in cases of diarrheal illnesses.  They are taken twice daily during an illness or twice daily for chronic conditions.  Formulations are:

            1. Culturelle-  comes in adult and kids formulations.  This is a well researched Lactobacillus formulation and is used for Diarrhea, Allergic conditions and general gut health.

            2. Lactobacillus Reuteri-  Supplied by BioGaia.  This is a liquid formulation for infants, and has been studied for use with "Colicky" Babies.  It is used  as 1 dropper, 2-3 times a day.

            3. Acidophilus- Can be found in other formulations and is the active culture that ferments yogurt.  As a general rule, any formulation can be used, but one should look for a serving amount of 4-8 billion (not million) organisms twice daily.

            4.  Florastor- Also known as Sacchromyces Boulardii.  It is a yeast-based probiotic and is used for antibiotic associated diarrhea and C. Dificile Colitis.

Vitamin D-  Supports Bone Health as well as multiple other functions, including hormone regulation, pain control, and immune regulation

                 -  Best given as Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) Babies, Children and Adults can all get 800-1000 IU (international units) once daily.  Higher doses are given per your doctor's recommendations.

Fish Oil-  These are essential fats which we get via our diet in cold water fish, eggs and some farm-raised meats.  Our Western diet is generally deficient in these oils.  They act in the body to regulate skin,  joint and brain health.  They are also helpful to prevent heart disease and disorders of inflammation (like asthma, rheumatoid arthritis etc.).  Dr. Julien often prescribes them for depression and ADHD as well.

            - Recommended doses are 400-800 mg per day.  Doses up to 1-4 grams are used for certain conditions.  The over the counter fish oils come as EPA/ DHA 180 mg per capsule generally.  Higher concentration capsules are available.

Zinc-  Is a mineral important in immune function.  It is important in Acute illness like Viral colds, Diarrheal illnesses and Flu virus.  It is given either as Zinc Sulfate or Zinc Glycinate.  For Teens and adults 25-50 mg daily during an acute illness is recommended.  For Infants and small children, the dose is 5- 10 mg once daily.

Magnesium-   Is important for Blood vessel relaxation and contraction and for proper muscle function.  It is often used in the treatment of Constipation, High Blood Pressure and Migraine Headache.

                        - The adult dosage is 600-800 mg daily as Magnesium Citrate or as Magnesium Oxide.

                        -Dosage for Children and Infants should be provided by your doctor.

Calcium-  Is an important mineral for bone health and health muscles and heart function.  It is especially important for teenage girls and boys between the ages of 14 and 30 years, who are building their bone density at this time.  It is supplied as Calcium Citrate (most easily absorbed) and Calcium Carbonate (less desirable).

                        - The dosage is 1200 mg daily, and should be taken along with magnesium and Vitamin D (see above), as they work together for optimal effect.

Trivisol or Polyvisol-  Is an Infant Multivitamin containing Vitamins A, D, and E.  It is recommended for ALL Breastfeeding Mothers during the first year of life, as Breast Milk is relatively low in Vitamin D.  It can be used for other infants as well.  The dosage is One Milliliter once Daily.

Iron-  Is an important Mineral for preventing anemia and proper mental function.  It is often given to young children who are anemic.  Your doctor will check your blood count at 1 and 2 years of age and let you know if they need more Iron.  It is Supplied as Fer-In- Sol, Ferrous Gluconate and other formulations for easier absorbtion.  Iron sometimes causes constipation.  Your Doctor will let you know the proper dosage.  Be sure not to give more than recommended, because iron can be dangerous in high doses.