General questions about supplements

 

What is a functional supplement?

In functional medicine, supplements are 100% natural, composed of nutrients already present in the body (vitamins, minerals, amino acids) or plant-derived. Their purpose is to correct nutritional deficiencies, address the root cause of symptoms, and prevent disease, with minimal side effects. They differ from medications, which primarily target symptoms.

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Do supplements really work?

Yes, they help address specific nutritional deficiencies and restore the body’s balance. They do not replace a healthy diet and are not “miracle cures”.

 

Do I really need supplements?

Most people obtain nutrients through a balanced diet. Supplements are recommended when deficiencies are identified or special needs arise (e.g., vitamin D deficiency, pregnancy, veganism).

 

What types of supplements exist?

Vitamins: A, D, C, B, among others.

Minerals and trace elements: zinc, iron, selenium, copper, iodine.

Amino acids: essential for proteins and vital functions.

Herbal supplements: extracts from seeds, roots, flowers, or berries.

 

What types of side effects may occur?

Heartburn, abdominal discomfort, metallic taste, or nausea. These symptoms may indicate sensitivity or intolerance to a component. If you experience any of these symptoms:

• Stop taking the supplement for 3 to 5 days. 

• If symptoms disappear, reintroduce gradually (e.g., half the initial dose).

• If symptoms return, discontinue until the next review appointment.

 

This may indicate that your body is more sensitive or intolerant to certain components (e.g., some people experience a metallic taste with selenium).

 

Why is my urine more yellow than usual?

Darker yellow urine usually indicates a higher concentration of pigments resulting from metabolism. It can occur due to insufficient fluid intake, mild dehydration, or increased vitamin intake (e.g., B-complex vitamins or carotenoids).

 

Is intense yellow urine a problem?

In most cases, no. It is usually related to dehydration or vitamin supplementation. However, if accompanied by pain, fever, blood, or persistent changes, you should consult a doctor.

 

Can diet change the colour of urine?

Yes. Foods rich in beta-carotene (carrot, pumpkin, beetroot) or artificial colourings can intensify yellow or pinkish tones.

 

What can I do to normalise urine colour?

Drinking more water throughout the day usually helps lighten the colour.

 

Why are my stools darker?

Darker stools can result from:

• Higher intake of foods such as beetroot, spinach, or iron-rich foods.

• Iron or vitamin supplements. 

• Changes in bile digestion or liver metabolism.

This is normal when taking certain supplements and is usually not a cause for concern.

 

Can very dark stools indicate a problem?

Yes. If they are black, very foul-smelling, and accompanied by pain, weight loss, fatigue, or vomiting, it could indicate digested blood in the gastrointestinal tract (possible bleeding). In such cases, seek medical evaluation.

 

Can supplementation affect stool colour?

Yes. Iron supplements and certain vitamin complexes can darken stools without indicating a health problem.

 

Dosage and timing

When is the best time to take each supplement?

Water-soluble vitamins (B, C): in the morning, preferably on an empty stomach.

Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K): with a meal containing fat.

Multivitamins: usually with the main meal.

 

Always follow the instructions on your prescription, as each dosage is tailored to the individual.

 

Abbreviations: B/F (Breakfast), L (Lunch), D (Dinner), Fasting (approx. 10–15 minutes before the first meal of the day).

 

Can I change the time indicated on my prescription?

Try to maintain the prescribed time for best efficacy. Any changes should be discussed with your doctor at your next review.

 

What if I forget a dose?

No problem. Resume at the next scheduled time without doubling the dose.

 

Can I take all supplements together or should I separate them?

Generally, they can be taken together, but some combinations are not ideal (e.g., iron and calcium). Always follow your prescription.

 

What if I have supplements for morning and evening?

Some compounds provide more energy (morning), while others support recovery or sleep (evening). Follow the indicated schedule.

 

Can I take supplements on an empty stomach?

Only if specified. For most, especially fat-soluble vitamins, fasting reduces absorption.

 

Why should fat-soluble vitamins be taken with fat?

Fat helps absorb vitamins A, D, E, and K. Examples: olive oil, avocado, nuts, fish, eggs.

 

Continuity and validity

How long should I take the supplements?

The prescription is valid for 12 months. You can continue taking them until the next consultation, unless your prescription specifies a 90-day course or a break of 2–3 months, for example.

 

What is the shelf-life of supplements?

Usually between 12 and 24 months. Always check the packaging.

 

What if I interrupt or forget supplements due to travel or oversight?

Resume as soon as possible. There is no need to compensate for missed doses.

 

Can I order multiple packs at once?

Yes, if your prescription is valid. Useful for long trips or if living outside Portugal.

 

Can the pharmacy send supplements abroad?

Some pharmacies provide international shipping. Confirm directly with the pharmacy.

 

Safety and quality

 

Why buy from the recommended pharmacy and not online?

Guarantees quality, safety, and personalisation. 

Compounded formulas are tailored for you, with correct doses and combinations.

Avoids generalised supplements with inappropriate doses or risk of counterfeit products.

 

Are compounded supplements safer?

Yes. Authorised pharmacies follow strict purity, traceability, and Good Manufacturing Practice standards.

 

Are compounded supplements personalised?

Yes. They are based on lab tests, lifestyle, and individual needs.

 

Do compounded supplements have better absorption?

Often, yes. They can use more bioavailable forms of vitamins and minerals.

 

Should I continue supplements not prescribed by my doctor?

No. Avoid duplication or unnecessary intake. Bring any questions about non-prescribed supplements to your next consultation.

 

Administration and presentation forms

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Why does the prescription say “1 dose = 4 capsules”?

Some supplements contain amounts of nutrients that do not fit into a single capsule. To ensure you receive the full prescribed dose, the pharmacy divides the content into multiple capsules.

 

Example:

Suppose your prescription requires 800 mg of a nutrient per dose. One capsule can only hold 200 mg. To deliver the full 800 mg, the pharmacy puts 200 mg in each capsule and states that one dose = 4 capsules.

 

By taking all 4 capsules, you receive the exact amount prescribed without reducing efficacy.

 

Why do capsules have different colours?

To differentiate morning and evening doses or different types of supplements. Colour does not affect efficacy.

 

Can I open capsules and mix with liquids?

Only if instructed by your doctor, as some capsules protect the ingredient from stomach acid.

 

Why do some formulas come in powder form?

When the dose is large or cannot fit into capsules, the powder comes with a measuring scoop.

 

Can the same supplement look different in different pharmacies?

Yes. Colour, size, or shape may vary, but the prescribed formula remains the same.

 

Can I take multiple capsules at once?

Yes, following the dosage instructions. Some substances work better on an empty stomach or after a meal, so always follow the prescription instructions.