Episode #002 -The Functional Five: Stop Wasting Money on Supplements That Don’t Work

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Episode Summary:

In this episode, Jodi cuts through the confusion of the supplement world to share her “Functional Five” – the core supplements that most people can benefit from, based on her 25+ years as a fitness and nutrition professional. Jodi explains why quality matters, how to choose effective supplements, and shares her personal experience with supplements that actually work.

Key Points:

• Food First Approach: Supplements should supplement a solid nutritional foundation, not replace it
• Quality Matters: Third-party testing and proper forms of nutrients are essential
• Personalization: Your supplement needs depend on your unique body, lifestyle, and goals

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The Functional Five

Jodi’s recommended core supplements that provide the biggest benefit for most people:

1. Quality Multivitamin
   • Look for: Methylated B vitamins, chelated minerals, no artificial fillers
   • Should be tailored to your age, stage, and specific needs
2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA & DHA)
   • Benefits: Brain health, reduced inflammation, heart health, mood regulation
   • Look for: Combined EPA/DHA of at least 1000mg daily, third-party tested, triglyceride form
   • Modern diets have a 16:1 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 (should be closer to 1:1)
3. Magnesium Bisglycinate
   • Benefits: Muscle relaxation, sleep quality, stress management, digestive regularity
   • 50-75% of Americans don’t meet recommended daily intake
   • Bisglycinate form is gentler on the stomach with better absorption than oxide forms
4. Vitamin D
   • Actually a hormone that impacts virtually every system in the body
   • 42% of the US population is deficient (higher in northern climates, darker skin tones)
   • Benefits: Bone health, immune function, mood regulation, hormonal balance
   • Get levels tested before supplementing (fat-soluble vitamin)
5. Protein Supplement
   • Options: Whey protein, collagen peptides, plant-based proteins
   • Especially important after age 40 when we become less efficient at using protein
   • Look for minimal additives, sweeteners, and fillers

Situational Supplements

Additional supplements to consider based on specific needs:

1. Electrolytes
   • For: Intense exercise, hot climates, low-carb diets, muscle cramps
   • Look for: Balanced profile of sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium
2. Creatine
   • Benefits: Muscle strength, power, recovery, cognitive function
   • Especially beneficial for: Active individuals, women in perimenopause/menopause, vegetarians/vegans
   • Choose creatine monohydrate with third-party testing
3. CBD
   • For: Mild to moderate anxiety, sleep issues, stress management
   • Look for: Full spectrum or broad spectrum, third-party tested, clear dosage information
4. Greens Powder
   • Helps bridge nutritional gaps when vegetable intake isn’t ideal
   • For: Frequent travelers, those who don’t enjoy vegetables, busy lifestyles
   • Choose products with diverse ingredients and transparent listings

How to Choose Quality Supplements

• Third-Party Testing: Look for NSF, USP, Informed Choice certifications
• Proper Nutrient Forms: Methylated B vitamins, chelated minerals
• Avoid Proprietary Blends: Often hide insufficient amounts of quality ingredients
• Research the Company: Transparency, longevity, good reviews
• Check for Fillers and Additives: Minimize unnecessary ingredients
• Proper Storage: Cool, dry place; refrigerate oils

Creating Your Personalized Supplement Plan

1. Assess your diet and lifestyle
2. Identify your top health concerns or goals
3. Start with the basics (Functional Five)
4. Introduce one new supplement at a time
5. Track your results
6. Adjust based on results
7. Consider professional guidance for complex concerns

Resources Mentioned:

• Free Supplement Basics Guide
• Cell Wellbeing Epigenetic Hair Testing ($50 off when mentioning this podcast)
• Custom Supplement Protocol Program
• Green Compass CBD

Special Offer

Get 15% off The Functional Five supplements through Jodi’s partner link: https://www.thorne.com/u/JodiSussnerWellness

Connect with Jodi

Visit jodisussner.com for more wellness resources, upcoming events, and personalized coaching options.

IN THIS EPISODE:

00:00 – Introduction & My Supplement Journey
04:33 – Why Food Always Comes First
06:44 – The Functional Five Explained
09:11 – Omega-3: The One Supplement I Wouldn’t Give Up
11:34 – Vitamin D: The “Sunshine” Hormone Most People Lack
13:44 – Protein Supplements: Why They Matter After 40
16:10 – Situational Supplements Worth Considering
20:56 – How to Identify Quality Products in an Unregulated Industry
23:17 – The Red Flag of “Proprietary Blends”
25:41 – Storage Tips & Testing Options
28:04 – Creating Your Personalized Supplement Plan
30:26 – Special Offers & Wrap-Up

✅ DOWNLOAD MY FREE SUPPLEMENT GUIDE: https://jodisussner.com
✅ GET 15% OFF THE SUPPLEMENTS I RECOMMEND: https://www.thorne.com/u/JodiSussnerWellness ✅ CUSTOM SUPPLEMENT PROTOCOL: Mention this podcast for $50 off your personalized plan!
Book at https://jodisussner.com

Connect with me:
🌐 Website: https://jodisussner.com
📸 Instagram: @jodisussnerwellness
📱 Facebook: @jodisussnerwellness
#supplements #wellness #nutrition #functionalfive #healthtips #wellnesspodcast