5 Mistakes People Make When Buying Supplements Online
The Online Supplement Maze
Feb 25, 2025
Shopping for supplements online can feel like walking into a giant maze. With so many brands, buzzwords, and bold claims, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed—or end up with products that don’t work.
As a lifestyle pharmacist, I’ve helped countless people navigate the world of supplements and avoid common pitfalls. Here are the top five mistakes people make when buying supplements online—and how you can make smarter choices.
Buying the Cheapest Option
▪ We all love a bargain, but when it comes to supplements, “cheap” often means low quality. Many inexpensive brands cut corners, using fillers, synthetic ingredients, or poor-quality raw materials that your body can’t absorb effectively.
▪ The Fix: Choose supplements that are third-party tested for purity and potency, like the ones in my Fullscript dispensary, where quality is never compromised.
2. Ignoring Interactions with Medications
▪ Certain supplements can interfere with medications, reducing their effectiveness—or causing harm. For example, St. John’s Wort can interact with antidepressants, and fish oil may increase bleeding risk when combined with blood thinners.
▪ The Fix: Always check with a pharmacist or healthcare professional before starting a new supplement. I offer personalized guidance to ensure your choices are safe.
3. Falling for Unproven Claims
▪ “Cures cancer!” “Burns fat instantly!” If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Supplements are meant to support your health, not perform miracles.
▪ The Fix: Stick to products backed by science. As a pharmacist, I only recommend supplements with solid research and proven benefits.
4. Overlooking Dosage and Form
▪ Even the best supplement won’t help if you’re taking the wrong dose—or if your body can’t absorb it. For example, magnesium oxide is poorly absorbed compared to magnesium glycinate or citrate.
▪ The Fix: Choose the right form and dosage for your needs. Not sure what’s best? I can help you figure it out during a consultation.
5. Shopping Without a Plan
▪ Many people buy supplements without understanding their health goals or needs. This often leads to taking unnecessary products—or missing out on ones that could truly help.
▪ The Fix: Start with a health assessment to identify your specific needs. At NorthernLights Pharmacy Clinic, I can help you build a personalized supplement plan that works for you.
Smart Supplement Shopping Starts Here
▪ Ready to stop guessing and start thriving? Explore my Fullscript dispensary for pharmacist-approved, science-backed supplements that fit your health goals.
▪ You can access those protocols and a lot of great free information about all the supplements I’ve added to them when you sign up for my online dispensary for free.
