Nutraceutical Supplements in Los Angeles, CA
The term nutraceutical combines the words nutrition and pharmaceutical. It refers to a broad range of products, from dietary supplements to foods that provide medical or health benefits. At LA Integrative Gastroenterology & Nutrition, our physicians recommend professional-grade nutraceuticals as part of personalized treatment plans to correct deficiencies, support gut healing, and improve overall health. To learn more, contact our office at (310) 289-8000.
Request an AppointmentCategories of Nutraceuticals
- Dietary supplements: vitamins, minerals, amino acids, probiotics, digestive enzymes, and herbal botanicals
- Functional foods: foods with added or naturally concentrated health benefits, such as oats, bran, prebiotic fibers, and omega-3-enriched products
- Medical foods: specially formulated nutrition, such as elemental formulas, used under physician supervision for specific conditions
The Origin of the Term “Nutraceutical”
The word was coined in 1989 by Dr. Stephen DeFelice, founder of the Foundation for Innovation in Medicine, a non-profit organization established in 1976 to advance medical discovery through better clinical research. The foundation has long advocated for more rigorous research on the health benefits of nutraceuticals.
Why Quality and Guidance Matter
Unlike prescription medications, dietary supplements are not approved by the FDA for safety and effectiveness before they are sold, so quality varies widely between brands. Some products contain less of an ingredient than labeled, while others may contain fillers or contaminants. Supplements can also interact with medications or be inappropriate for certain conditions. That is why our physicians recommend only professional-grade products from trusted manufacturers and tailor every recommendation to your health history and test results.
How We Use Nutraceuticals in Digestive Care
Supplements play an important supporting role in many treatment plans, including:
- Correcting deficiencies of iron, B12, vitamin D, magnesium, and zinc caused by malabsorption
- Probiotics and prebiotics to restore a healthy microbiome
- Digestive enzymes and acid support for bloating and indigestion
- Herbal antimicrobials as part of SIBO treatment
- Nutrients that support gut lining repair and inflammation control
- Antioxidants that address oxidative stress
Your supplements are coordinated with your customized nutrition plan and personalized nutrient recommendations.
Ordering Supplements
Patients can conveniently order professional-grade supplements through our website and find more details on our supplement general information page. Before your visit, please upload a list of your current supplements so your doctor can review them.
Nutraceutical Supplements FAQs
What is the difference between a nutraceutical and a dietary supplement?
A dietary supplement is taken by mouth to add nutrients to the diet, such as a multivitamin. Nutraceuticals is a broader term that includes supplements, functional foods, and medical foods used to support health and help prevent or manage disease.
Why have nutraceuticals become so popular?
Many people are interested in natural options, prevention, and addressing root causes, and research on nutrition and the microbiome has grown significantly.
Are supplements regulated?
Supplements are regulated differently from prescription drugs and are not approved for effectiveness before sale, which is why choosing high-quality brands and getting medical guidance matters.
Can supplements interact with my medications?
Yes. Some supplements can interact with prescription medications. Our physicians review your complete medication and supplement list before making recommendations.
Where can I buy the supplements you recommend?
You can order supplements through our website.
Should I bring my current supplements to my appointment?
Yes. Please bring them or upload them before your visit so your doctor can review them.
Get Expert Supplement Guidance in Los Angeles, CA
Make sure the supplements you take are right for your body. Call LA Integrative Gastroenterology & Nutrition at (310) 289-8000 to schedule a consultation.