“But Doc, I Take a Multivitamin and Supplements!”

What’s the Difference Between Medical-Grade and Store-Bought Supplements?

Have you ever walked into a store and seen shelves full of vitamins and supplements? They all look healthy and helpful—but are they really the same? Today, we’re going to explain the big difference between two kinds of supplements: medical-grade and store-bought (also called over-the-counter or OTC). This is important to know so you and your family can stay healthy and safe!

1. Are All Supplements Checked by the Government?

Nope! Here's a big surprise: many store-bought supplements aren’t carefully checked before they’re sold.

The government group that usually checks medicines is called the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). But with store-bought supplements, the FDA doesn’t test them before they go on store shelves. That means companies can sell vitamins without proving they actually work or even contain what the label says.

On the other hand, medical-grade supplements are usually recommended by doctors or clinics like ours. These are made very carefully and tested to make sure they’re safe and really help your body.

2. What’s Inside Store-Bought Supplements?

Store-bought vitamins often have extra stuff in them—things your body doesn’t need. These are called fillers. Fillers can include:

• Artificial colors

• Sweeteners

• Powders that make the pill look full

Sometimes, these extras can even make you feel sick or give you allergies. And the main vitamin or mineral? It might be there in a super small amount—too little to really help you feel better. Medical-grade supplements don’t have those junky fillers. They’re made to be clean and strong, with exactly what your body needs and nothing extra.

3. Do Store-Bought Vitamins Work Well in the Body?

Not always. Even if a vitamin looks good on the label, your body might not absorb it (that means your body doesn’t really use it). Some studies show that people may only absorb about 10% of some over-the-counter vitamins! That’s like buying a gallon of milk and only being able to drink one cup. Medical-grade supplements are made in ways that help your body absorb more—so you actually get the vitamins and feel better.

4. Are Medical-Grade Supplements Made Differently?

Yes, they are! Medical-grade vitamins are made in special places that follow good manufacturing practices. That means everything is clean, safe, and tested a lot. These supplements are often checked by outside labs to make sure they really have what the label says. Store-bought vitamins may not go through any of that. That’s why they can be so different from one brand to another—even if the label looks the same!

5. Who Should You Trust for Supplements?

It’s always smart to talk to a doctor or a healthcare professional—like the team at Foot and Ankle Center of Iowa! We can help you choose the right supplements that are safe, clean, and actually help your body heal.

Final Thoughts

Not all vitamins are created equal. Store-bought ones might seem cheaper or easier to get, but they can be filled with stuff you don’t need—and your body might not even use them well.

Medical-grade supplements are made to help your body more effectively, with high-quality ingredients and no unnecessary junk. When it comes to your health, better is definitely worth it!

📍Need help choosing the right supplements for your health? Our team at Foot and Ankle Center of Iowa is here to help. Call us at 515-639-3775 or visit us in Ankeny, Grimes, Fort Dodge, Des Moines or Sac City, Iowa to learn more!