Dietary Supplements with Daithi O’Connor

In the latest episode of ProfileTree’s Amazing Food & Drink series, we sit down with Daithi O’Connor, founder and Managing Director of Revive Active. Daithi takes us through the fascinating story of his food brand, highlighting some of the dietary benefits offered by his personalised nutrition products. Check out the full interview and don’t forget to like, subscribe and share!

When it comes to the subject of “super supplements”, nobody is as well-placed to speak as Daithi O’Connor. “There are quite a lot of these ingredients in the market, and you can buy them individually or in combined packages,” he explains. Daithi gives us some information on the academic team behind his brand, which included a PhD in Molecular Medicine, a PhD in Sports Nutrition, a vascular surgeon and nutritional therapist, to mention but a few. This multidisciplinary team put their heads together and released their first Revive Active product.

Discussing Benefits of Dietary Supplements with Daithi O’Connor

Daithi highlights that Revive Active’s debut product contains 26 active ingredients. However, this isn’t the only bold nutritional claim made by Daithi: the product also contains no fillers, no binders and no artificial colouring or preservatives. The product also contains a natural sweetener called Stevia, avoiding the need for sugar or any artificial additives. “It’s suitable for vegans; vegetarians, diabetics, coeliacs – anyone really. The ingredients combined are much stronger than the individual ingredients, and there’s all sorts of synergies going on here. All these ingredients are scientifically formatted,” he adds.

The nutritional benefits of these food supplements appear to be obvious. But how does it actually work, and how is it actually prepared? According to Daithi, it’s as simple as stirring the solution into water. This grants added appeal to his product, in that today’s consumers are in search of both convenience and nutritional value. “So, you have benefits here across multiple fronts,” he explains. “You have those natural benefits with that natural sustained energy that;s going to last you throughout the day. You have protection for your immune system, and that’s helped by all the antioxidants in our ingredients. Finally, you have benefits with your health, reducing the likelihood of heart conditions and improving your blood circulation.”

This combination of benefits is what defines the product as a ‘supplement’, argues Daithi. “You’ll have better circulation, better skin, better lungs. You will look better and feel fitter. More oxygen to the brain means more mental clarity. You’ll look at a to-do list and it will be easy to do. So, convenience and science is what makes this a ‘super supplement’ – but it’s all about nutrition.”

Whilst Daithi highlights the scientific and nutritional credentials of his product, he does recognise that GPs and medical practitioners should be the ultimate voice of trust when it comes to our physical health. “This is a lifestyle product, and people should know this. However, if your immune system needs a kick, then it does help to take products like Revive Active. This is why some GPs and medical practitioners will also recommend our product for recovery purposes,” he explains. For the team at Revive Active, this has come following extensive phases of research into the nutritional science of the product.

“We’ve worked with a range of healthcare professionals across the development of several of our products. For example, we recently released a product which helps to aid with cognitive functioning. We worked with the University of Northumbria, and we specifically examined the nutritional requirements of various age groups, including children and teenagers. This will help with their immune system, bone strength and joints. There’s a high amount of marine collagen – we’re looking to put the best ingredients and the highest amount of benefits into one package. Check out our reviews on TrustPilot!” continues Daithi.

Those excited to try the latest range of products from ReviveActive can visit the company’s official website, which features its own handy store locator function, which also includes pharmacies and private health centres. The website also constraints a trove of useful information about the nutritional benefits behind the products. The brand can also be followed on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

We’d like to send a massive thank you to Daithi O’Connor for taking time out of his busy schedule to tell us about the fascinating science behind ReviveActive. We love telling the stories of successful food businesses, and we’d love to hear more from you. To share your story with our audience, get in touch with Amazing Food and Drink: a sub-brand of ProfileTree content marketing agency.

Understanding Dietary Supplement Regulations: Navigating the Maze of the FDA and International Bodies

Dietary supplements hold the promise of bridging nutritional gaps and enhancing health, but navigating the regulatory landscape can be confusing. Understanding the role of the FDA and international bodies is crucial for making informed decisions about the supplements you choose.

The FDA and Dietary Supplements:

• Limited Regulation: Unlike prescription drugs, supplements fall under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994. This means manufacturers don’t need FDA approval before selling them.
• Safety & Labeling: However, the FDA can take action against unsafe or mislabeled supplements. They oversee labeling accuracy, ensuring claims don’t imply disease diagnosis, treatment, or prevention.
• Adverse Event Reporting: Consumers and healthcare professionals can report adverse reactions to the FDA to identify potential safety concerns.

International Regulations:

• Variation across Countries: Regulations differ globally, making it essential to research specific guidelines for your region.
• EU Food Supplements Directive: In the European Union, supplements are categorized as “food” with stricter regulations than the US.
• WHO Guidelines on Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP): The World Health Organization (WHO) provides GMP guidelines for supplement production, but individual countries implement them differently.

Choosing High-Quality Supplements: Reading Labels, Understanding Ingredients, and Avoiding Scams

The world of dietary supplements can be overwhelming, and choosing the right ones requires careful consideration. Here are some tips to navigate the label, understand ingredients, and avoid scams:

Reading Labels:

• Serving Size: Pay attention to the serving size and ensure you’re taking the recommended dosage. Don’t assume one serving equals one capsule or tablet.
• Ingredient List: Ingredients are listed by weight, with the most prominent ingredient first. Look for familiar, whole-food sources like fruits, vegetables, or herbs.
• % Daily Value (%DV): This indicates how much of a nutrient a single serving provides based on a standard diet. High DVs (over 100%) might be excessive.
• Other Ingredients: Be wary of unnecessary fillers, binders, artificial colors, or flavors. Look for “natural” or “organic” labels, but remember these terms aren’t always regulated.
• Claims: Avoid products with exaggerated claims like “miracle cures” or disease prevention. Legitimate claims must be supported by scientific evidence.
• Third-Party Certifications: Look for seals from reputable organizations like USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab, which verify quality and purity.

Understanding Ingredients:

• Standardized Extracts: Look for standardized extracts that guarantee consistent potency of active ingredients.
• Bioavailability: Consider the bioavailability of the ingredient – how well your body can absorb and utilize it. For example, liposomal forms often have higher bioavailability.
• Potential Interactions: Research potential interactions with medications or other supplements you’re taking. Consult your doctor if unsure.
• Source: Be mindful of the source of ingredients, especially for animal-derived products. Look for sustainable and ethical sourcing practices.

Avoiding Scams:

• If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Don’t fall for miracle cures or quick-fix promises.
• Beware of free trial offers that automatically convert to paid subscriptions. Read the fine print carefully.
• Research the company and its reputation. Look for reviews from independent sources and avoid companies with a history of complaints.
• Only buy from reputable retailers. Avoid online vendors selling supplements without proper licensing or certifications.
• Don’t be pressured into buying on the spot. Take your time to research and compare products before making a decision.

Safety and Interactions with Medications: Navigating the Potential Risks of Dietary Supplements

While dietary supplements can offer potential health benefits, it’s crucial to consider potential safety concerns and interactions with medications to ensure your well-being. Here’s a detailed exploration of potential risks and the importance of consulting healthcare professionals:

Potential Risks of Dietary Supplements:

• Adverse Reactions: Like any substance, supplements can cause adverse reactions, ranging from mild (e.g., nausea, headache) to serious (e.g., allergic reactions, liver damage). Individual sensitivities and pre-existing health conditions can influence your risk.
• Contamination: Supplements may be contaminated with harmful substances like heavy metals, pesticides, or bacteria due to inadequate quality control or manufacturing practices.
• Drug Interactions: Numerous supplements can interact with medications, altering their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. This is especially dangerous with blood thinners, antidepressants, and medications for heart conditions.
• Nutrient Imbalances: Taking excessive amounts of certain nutrients through supplements can lead to imbalances, potentially causing harm. For example, high intakes of vitamin A can be toxic.

Importance of Consulting Healthcare Professionals:

• Personalized Evaluation: Healthcare professionals can assess your individual health status, medications, and potential risks associated with specific supplements.
• Safe Dosing: They can recommend appropriate dosages based on your needs and potential interactions with medications.
• Monitoring Side Effects: They can monitor you for any adverse reactions and adjust your supplement regimen if necessary.
• Alternatives & Evidence-Based Guidance: They can suggest alternative approaches to address your health concerns and advise on the validity of supplement claims based on scientific evidence.

Examples of Potential Interactions:

• St. John’s Wort: Can interact with antidepressants, reducing their effectiveness.
• Grapefruit Juice: Can increase the blood levels of some medications, leading to toxicity.
• Vitamin K: Can interfere with blood thinners, increasing bleeding risk.

Specific Conditions and Supplement Use: Sorting Fact from Fad

Dietary supplements can be helpful for addressing specific health concerns, but navigating the often conflicting information can be overwhelming. Here’s a breakdown of common uses and important considerations:

Remember: This information is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

Common Uses:

• Bone Health: Vitamin D and calcium are crucial for bone strength. However, excessive calcium intake without vitamin D is not recommended. Consult your doctor for personalized recommendations.
• Gut Health: Probiotics can support gut health, but choosing the right strain and ensuring quality is crucial. Discuss specific probiotic use with your healthcare provider.
• Heart Health: Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil may offer some heart health benefits, but they don’t replace statins or other prescribed medications. Talk to your doctor if you consider them.
• Immune Support: Vitamin C, zinc, and elderberry extract are commonly used for immune support, but evidence is mixed. Focus on a balanced diet and consult your doctor before using them regularly.
• Cognitive Function: Vitamin B12, omega-3s, and certain herbs like ginkgo biloba are associated with cognitive benefits, but research is ongoing. Discuss options with your healthcare provider.
• Sleep: Melatonin may help regulate sleep patterns, but consult your doctor for proper dosage and potential interactions with medications.

Important Considerations:

• Scientific Evidence: Not all supplements have strong scientific evidence supporting their claimed benefits. Research the specific supplement and its effectiveness for your desired outcome.
• Underlying Conditions: Some supplements can interact with medications or worsen certain health conditions. Discuss any supplement use with your doctor, especially if you have pre-existing health issues.
• Dosage and Quality: Taking the right dosage and choosing high-quality supplements is crucial. Consult your doctor and research reputable brands with third-party certifications.
• Lifestyle Choices: Supplements should complement a healthy lifestyle, not replace it. Prioritize a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management for overall well-being.

Beyond the Bottle:

Remember, dietary supplements are not magic bullets. Addressing specific health concerns often requires a multi-faceted approach, including:

• Dietary Changes: Focusing on nutrient-rich whole foods can provide many essential vitamins and minerals naturally.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep can significantly impact your health and well-being.
• Medical Treatments: If you have a diagnosed condition, follow your doctor’s prescribed treatment plan alongside any healthy lifestyle changes and supplement use (if recommended by your doctor).

Sustainable and Ethical Sourcing: Beyond the Label in Dietary Supplements

The growing demand for dietary supplements has raised concerns about their environmental and ethical implications. Choosing supplements aligned with your values requires understanding sustainable and ethical sourcing practices.

Environmental Impact:

• Ingredient Production: Farming practices, water usage, and deforestation for herbal ingredients can harm ecosystems. Look for supplements using sustainably sourced materials, like organic farms or regenerative agriculture practices.
• Manufacturing & Packaging: Energy consumption, waste generation, and plastic packaging contribute to environmental burdens. Choose supplements with transparent practices, recycled materials, and minimal packaging.
• Carbon Footprint: Consider the entire supply chain’s carbon footprint, opting for locally sourced ingredients and minimizing transportation emissions where possible.

Ethical Considerations:

• Fair Labor Practices: Exploitation of workers, unfair wages, and unsafe working conditions can occur in some parts of the supplement industry. Support brands committed to fair trade practices and ethical sourcing from countries with strong labor protections.
• Ingredient Traceability: Ensure clear and transparent information about the origin and processing of ingredients. Beware of vague labeling or companies lacking traceability practices.
• Animal Welfare: If you choose animal-derived supplements, opt for brands committed to humane treatment and sustainable farming practices. Look for certifications like Certified Humane Raised or Global Animal Partnership (GAP).

How to Be an Informed Consumer:

• Research & Transparency: Choose brands with transparent websites and sourcing information. Look for third-party certifications like Fair Trade USA or B Corporation for ethical practices.
• Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to contact companies directly and inquire about their sourcing practices and sustainability initiatives.
• Support Sustainable & Ethical Brands: By choosing companies committed to responsible sourcing, you send a powerful message and create demand for positive change.

Science-backed vs Hype: Navigating the Sea of Supplement Claims

The world of dietary supplements is rife with claims promising miraculous health benefits. But how do you separate science-backed facts from empty hype? Here’s a guide to navigating the information:

Science-Backed Benefits:

• Look for research published in reputable medical journals. Ensure the studies are double-blind, placebo-controlled, and conducted by independent researchers.
• Check for large-scale studies with diverse participants. Small, single-site studies with limited participant pools might not be generalizable.
• Be cautious of studies funded by supplement companies. Their objectivity may be biased.
• Focus on the “dose-response” relationship. If only very high doses show benefits, consider the potential risks of long-term high intake.
• Beware of claims promising quick fixes or disease cures. True health improvements usually require holistic approaches beyond just supplements.

Unsubstantiated Claims:

• Testimonials and personal anecdotes are not evidence. Everyone reacts differently, and personal experiences don’t represent scientific proof.
• Be wary of claims using vague terms like “detox” or “boost immunity.” These terms often lack clear scientific definitions and measurable outcomes.
• Watch out for “before-and-after” pictures with no control group or unrealistic results. Remember, lighting, angles, and editing can create misleading images.
• Beware of claims focusing on isolated ingredients instead of overall dietary patterns. True health benefits often come from synergistic interactions between various nutrients.
• If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Be skeptical of exaggerated claims promising rapid weight loss, muscle gain, or disease prevention without lifestyle changes.

FAQs:

1. Are all supplements bad?

No, not all supplements are bad. Some have science-backed benefits for specific health concerns, but it’s crucial to choose high-quality products, understand potential interactions, and prioritize a balanced diet for optimal health.

2. How can I tell if a supplement is high-quality?

Look for third-party certifications like USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab, read labels carefully, avoid excessive claims, and consult your doctor or registered dietitian for recommendations.

3. Are there any alternatives to dietary supplements?

Yes! Focusing on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is the foundation for optimal nutrient intake. Food fortification, cooking methods, and addressing underlying deficiencies with your doctor can also be effective.

4. What are some red flags to watch out for when choosing a supplement?

Exaggerated claims, lack of scientific evidence, vague labeling, hidden ingredients, and companies with a history of complaints are red flags.

5. Should I always consult my doctor before taking supplements?

It’s always a good idea to consult your doctor, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions, take medications, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Conclusion:

Dietary supplements can be a valuable tool, but navigating the world of claims and hype can be confusing. By prioritizing science-backed evidence, understanding potential risks, and exploring alternative approaches like a balanced diet, you can make informed choices and optimize your nutrient intake for a healthy and well-balanced life.

Remember, supplements should complement, not replace, a healthy lifestyle. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and ensure you approach supplements with caution and informed decision-making.