The Supplement Facts: Why 85% Aren’t Worth Taking
If you’ve ever bought a supplement because “someone said it worked”… and then it ended up in your supplement graveyard, this episode will validate your experience.
In this conversation, I’m joined by supplement expert Kate Mahoney - a natural health geek and food-first functional nutrition practitioner with nearly 30 years of experience who accidentally became a dietary supplement expert along the way. She shares the facts: most supplements are not worth your money, and some can quietly create imbalances if taken long-term or taken in the wrong form.
We cover the real reasons most supplement education is confusing (hint: conflicts of interest), why “recommended doses” can be misleading, and the surprising differences between US vs Australian supplement labeling.
If you’re a health-conscious consumer or a practitioner who wants to lift your standards and protect your clients, this is a must-listen.
What You’ll Learn (Key Takeaways)
Why Kate says 85% of supplements worldwide are NOT worth taking (and fatty acids 90%)
The supplement industry’s biggest issue: profit-driven marketing disguised as education
Why “if it’s on the shelf, it must be safe” is a dangerous assumption
The difference between US (DSHEA) and Australia (TGA) oversight — and why it matters
Why there is no universal “everyone should take this” supplement (bio-individuality)
The magnesium myth: how long-term use can create mineral imbalances (calcium vs magnesium)
Why “detox” and parasite cleanses are often backwards - and what actually supports detox
The hidden label trap: “500mg magnesium glycinate” isn’t the same as 500mg elemental magnesium
Why “recommended dose” depends on country rules, forms, sourcing, and what the label doesn’t say
If this episode made you rethink your supplement stack, share it with a friend who’s stuck in the “try the next thing” loop - and if you’re a practitioner, go follow Kate so you can tighten your clinical standards fast. Be tuned for the book!
About Kate Mahoney
Kate Mahoney, former NTA instructor & founder of the Supplement Academy, breaks down why less than 15% of supplements are worth taking, how to read labels with confidence, and why “food first” beats chasing the next trending pill.
Kate Mahoney, is a food-first dietary supplement expert with 30 years’ experience and the founder of the Supplement Academy. She teaches health professionals and consumers how to evaluate supplement quality and effectiveness without affiliate bias or brand influence - so people can make informed, confident decisions.
www.thesupplementacademy.com
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