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Article Category: Highlights

Can Vitamins and Supplements Support Me in My Wellness Goals?

Published on January 16, 2024

Last updated 02:16 PM January 16, 2024

Illustration of pill and food

Many patients take dietary supplements to fill the gaps in their diet or be proactive against disease. But with all the different brands and products available, it can be difficult to decide which vitamin or supplement could be beneficial—and what could even be harmful or detrimental to your health goals.

According to the National Health and Nutrition Survey, 57.6% of adults aged 20 and over reported using any dietary supplement in the past 30 days, and dietary supplement use is more common among older adults, with 74.3% of adults 60 and older reporting supplement use.

Since 1994, dietary supplements have not needed the authorization of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to be manufactured and sold, due to the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994. This act left manufacturers to their own devices to evaluate the safety of their products, as well as the labeling on those products.

One of the problems in assessing multivitamins is the vast selection of options available. One brand of multivitamin may contain different amounts and different vitamins compared to another brand. Therefore, it is hard to accurately evaluate the benefits of taking multivitamins and their possible effect on conditions such as cardiovascular disease and cancer since these vitamins are often made differently.

If you’re concerned about getting the vitamins and minerals you need to stay healthy, your Wellstar primary care provider can work with you on a tailored nutritional plan and can refer you to a dietitian if needed.

“The majority of the vitamins that individuals are attempting to supplement when they take vitamins are already available in their diet,” said Wellstar Primary Care Physician Dr. Randy Hines.

Vitamins and minerals are better used and absorbed by the body when eaten rather than consumed in a pill, according to Dr. Hines.

The various B vitamins are available in lean meats, grains, fish and nuts. The antioxidant vitamins (A, C and E) are plentiful in dairy products, fruits and vegetables. Those who truly need to take supplements may have dietary restrictions, chronic conditions such as alcoholism or live in food-deficient areas where vitamins aren’t readily available. Those who don’t fit into those categories can supplement vitamins and minerals through changing their dietary habits.

It’s also important to make sure that there will not be any interactions between supplements and medications that could lead to health concerns or change the medicine’s effectiveness.

Find a Wellstar primary care provider who can work with you to accomplish your health and nutrition goals. 

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Randy Todd Hines II Primary Care
Related Articles
Person blowing nose and holding thermometer

Highlights

What’s Got You Sick?

Antibiotics save lives by effectively treating bacterial infections, but they aren’t effective against viral infections. At Wellstar Primary Care and Wellstar Urgent Care, our expert clinicians will evaluate your symptoms and tailor a care plan for your condition, including a prescription for the appropriate medication if needed.

Viral infections like colds, flu, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) or COVID-19 may require antiviral medications. There is no antiviral medication to treat norovirus, but it’s recommended that you stay hydrated and use anti-diarrheal or anti-nausea medication if needed. Most people with norovirus will feel better in about one to three days.

Antibiotics only treat bacterial infections.

If you’re diagnosed with an infection that has been caused by bacteria, such as strep throat or a urinary tract infection, an antibiotic can clear up the infection and help you feel better. Some bacterial infections can resolve without antibiotics, and your care team will work with you to determine your treatment plan.

While antibiotics are effective in treating bacterial infections, it’s important that you don’t take them if you don’t need them.

“Unnecessary antibiotic use can cause your body to build up resistance to them, which means they won’t be as effective when you do get an infection,” said Wellstar Urgent Care Physician Dr. William Broyles. 

If you think you may have a bacterial or viral infection, contact your primary care clinician or visit an urgent care location near you so our team can help you start feeling better. Learn more about the types of care available at Wellstar and which may be right for your condition.

 

Chart showing whether antibiotics treat certain illnesses. Cold/runny nose is a virus, no antibiotics needed. Sore throat (except strep) is a virus, no antibiotics needed. COVID-19 is a virus, no antibiotics needed. Flu is a virus, no antibiotics needed. Bronchitis/chest cold in otherwise healthy children and adults is either virus or bacteria, no antibiotics needed. Studies show that in otherwise healthy children and adults, antibiotics for bronchitis won’t help patients feel better. Middle ear infection could be virus or bacteria, antibiotics may be needed. Sinus infection could be virus or bacteria, antibiotics may be needed. Strep throat is caused by bacteria, antibiotics needed. Whooping cough is caused by bacteria, antibiotics needed. Urinary tract infection is caused by bacteria, antibiotics needed. Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

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Person receiving bag of groceries

Newsroom

Wellstar Partners with Feeding the Valley to Improve Food Access and Nutrition

Wellstar Center for Health Equity and Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center have launched the Food as Medicine program. In partnership with Feeding the Valley Food Bank, this initiative supports Wellstar’s strategy to improve food access in high-need communities.  

Patients will be screened during primary care visits at offices in the LaGrange area for food insecurity. Clinicians will then connect patients who screen positive for food insecurity to a medically tailored meal program offered by Feeding the Valley.

Participants will receive 10 healthy, prepared meals each week for 90 days. They will also gain access to Cooking Matters classes held at Wellstar West Georgia’s Enoch Callaway Cancer Center, where they will learn to shop for and cook healthy meals on a budget. By equipping patients with practical nutrition knowledge, budget-friendly cooking skills and a three-month supply of healthy meals, Wellstar aims to support people in making lasting, health-boosting changes to their diets and overall well-being. While food insecurity is a concern identified by our Community Health Needs Assessment, diabetes and other diet-related illnesses are also a major threat to our community’s well-being.

Wellstar is increasingly working toward healthy food solutions that address both food access and health. Our efforts with Wellstar Mobile Markets, in partnership with Goodr, and our food rescue initiatives, in collaboration with Goodr and Second Helpings Atlanta, show our commitment to increasing food access.

Learn more about the Wellstar Center for Health Equity. 

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Highlights

Make Health Your Habit as a Family

At Wellstar, we understand how important your family’s health is to you. That’s why we partner with people and families across all ages to provide the continuing care each person needs to live their healthiest, fullest life.

By following tips from Wellstar pediatric and primary care experts to prioritize healthy habits at every stage, families can work together to take charge of their health and foster a lifetime of well-being.

Toddlerhood & early childhood

Building a strong foundation

Early childhood is a prime time to establish healthy behaviors as children’s brains are rapidly developing, making them highly receptive to learning.

“Nurturing healthy habits in childhood provides a strong foundation for long-term physical, emotional and social success,” said Dr. Joanna Dolgoff, a pediatrician at Wellstar East Paulding Pediatric Center and spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics.

By incorporating several key habits into their children’s daily routines, parents can set the tone for a healthy, thriving life.

Prioritize a balanced diet: Preparing meals with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and dairy not only supports children’s growth and development, but also introduces positive eating habits that can last a lifetime.

Additionally, “Let kids decide when they are full,” Dr. Dolgoff said. “Avoid using food as a reward or punishment.”

Establish routines: This includes fostering healthy sleep habits by creating a consistent bedtime routine, instituting regular meal and snack times, keeping kids active and limiting screen time.

“For children under 2, avoid screens,” Dr. Dolgoff advised. “For ages 2 to 5, limit to one hour of high-quality programming a day.”

Model healthy habits: “Children naturally observe and mimic their parents’ actions,” Dr. Dolgoff shared. “Be a role model by making healthy choices yourself, like exercising regularly, eating well and managing stress effectively. Kids are more likely to adopt positive habits when they see their parents practicing them.”

Middle childhood & adolescence

Encouraging healthy choices

As children grow and desire more of a say in the decision-making that affects them, parents should actively encourage their involvement while still ensuring their choices align with healthy behaviors.

Cook and eat meals together: Healthy foods fuel children’s physical growth and brain development. Involving kids in meal planning and cooking not only teaches them about the importance of healthy eating, but also fosters connection and quality time.

“Create the weekly grocery list together, cook and eat together,” said Dr. Neety Patel, a primary care physician (PCP) with Wellstar in West Cobb. “Eating together is a great way to set aside 30 minutes (or more) to enjoy your food, talk about your day and bond.”

Swap screen time for movement and creativity: Set boundaries around recreational screen time and encourage activities like reading, drawing, storytelling or outdoor play, Dr. Dolgoff suggested. Limiting screen time an hour before bed can help ensure kids get the recommended amount of sleep (9 to 12 hours for ages 6 to 12; 8 to 10 hours for teens).

“Too much screen time can negatively impact mental health,” said Dr. Dolgoff, “while creative activities boost cognitive development and emotional expression.”

According to Dr. Dolgoff, parents should also schedule time for at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily. “This can include walks, sports, dancing or family games. Movement promotes physical health, reduces stress and helps kids focus better in school."

Make it a team effort: Instilling healthy values takes a village, so remember to involve the whole family in decision-making. “Kids feel more motivated and empowered when they are part of the process,” explained Dr. Dolgoff.

Wellstar Primary Care Physician Dr. Nikia Garland, who practices family medicine in West Cobb, added that setting realistic goals together promotes a sense of shared responsibility. “Use each other as an accountability partner,” she said.

And when children show progress or achieve success, don’t forget to celebrate. “Celebrations reinforce the idea that healthy habits are rewarding,” Dr. Dolgoff said.

Young adulthood

Taking charge of health management

Young adulthood is a period marked by significant life changes and evolving responsibilities. By teaching young adults to make healthcare a priority—even though they may feel invincible—parents can help set them up for future success.

Coordinate the transfer to adult-oriented care: Between ages 18 to 21, as students graduate or transition to life beyond high school, parents should coordinate the “handoff" from their pediatrician to an adult PCP.

“The transition from a pediatrician to an adult PCP is a critical step in helping teens take charge of their healthcare,” said Dr. Patel. “Transitioning ensures no gap in care.”

Making this switch empowers young adults to proactively take charge of their health management by establishing a plan to continue with annual physicals and age-appropriate health screenings.

Encourage discussion: Parents can further support their children during this transitional stage by maintaining open and honest communication about health topics.

“Parents can help by starting the conversation early, discussing the upcoming transition and why it’s important,” said Dr. Dolgoff. “Involve the teen in the process. Let them participate in selecting an adult PCP. Show them how to schedule appointments, refill prescriptions and understand health insurance. Teach them about their medical histories, including allergies, medications and any chronic conditions. Emphasize the importance of annual physicals and the benefits of preventive care.”

Adulthood

Maintaining long-term wellness

By the time young adults reach their mid- to late-20s, they should strive to have an established relationship with their primary care team, helping them stay ahead of injury and disease with regular screenings and preventative care.

Schedule annual physicals: Annual checkups create a baseline that can be used to track a person’s health over time. These exams are one of the best ways to catch and treat early signs of illness before they turn into serious health problems.

“During patient’s physicals, I review my wellness tips with them,” Dr. Garland shared. "It includes how to eat healthy (and what to do if you don’t), how to get restful sleep, getting physical activity, adequate water intake and daily stress relief.”

Limit processed foods and sugar: Eating a balanced diet rich in whole foods can make a huge difference when it comes to maintaining a healthy weight, lowering the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes, and improving energy levels.

“It seems simple and obvious to preach, but in our busy lives, we often tend to eat on the go,” said Dr. Patel. “A freshly cooked meal can do wonders for your day.”

Stay active to age well: Exercise has many benefits for adults as they age, from staving off chronic disease to enhancing strength and balance to boosting mental health.

“Regular movement can maintain your muscle and bone strength and improve most musculoskeletal pains,” said Dr. Patel. For adults, Dr. Garland noted that she typically recommends getting 30 minutes of daily continuous physical activity or 10,000 steps a day.

“If you enjoy the gym, go for it,” said Dr. Patel. “If not, get active any way you are able—go for a walk, a hike, a bike ride, take a dance lesson with your loved one, do a Zumba class on YouTube (it's free!) or some chair yoga.”

However, it’s important to know your limits, added the physician. “If something starts to hurt excessively, scale back and talk to your provider if you're not sure,” she said. “Some movement is better than no movement!”

Take control of your family’s health by finding a Wellstar pediatrician or a Wellstar primary care provider near you.

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