Hi Dr. Laurie, On a short video without the comment line you were talking about Omega 3's. Should we be supplementing with Algae based DHA and EPA? You mentioned the unreliable conversion of ALA to DHA and EPA. Thanks!
Great question! Yes, supplementing with algae-based DHA and EPA can be a good idea, especially if you're not consuming fish or other direct sources of omega-3s. The point about the unreliable conversion of ALA (found in flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts) to DHA and EPA is important-our bodies can only convert a small percentage of ALA into these essential omega-3 forms, and the efficiency varies between individuals. Algae-based supplements are an excellent alternative because they provide a direct source of DHA and EPA, and they’re plant-based, making them a sustainable and vegan-friendly option. Ensuring adequate DHA and EPA intake supports brain health, heart health, and overall inflammation balance, so if you're not getting them from diet alone, supplementation could be very beneficial. I use Complement Essential. lovecomplement.com?aff=62
Great video. Need advice please. New Vegan and loving the lifestyle. Im 58 post menapause...yay.. Felt fatigue and dizzy. Iron test results: S iron: 8.40 S Transferrin : 2.35 % Saturation : 15.98 S Ferritin : 69.8 Total bindind capacity: 52.58 Doctor just said take iron supplent with folic acid. Im feeling so much better but am worried iron supplement can be aging etc. Any advice.
Thank you for your kind words and for sharing your journey-it’s wonderful to hear that you’re loving the vegan lifestyle! Iron levels can indeed be tricky to manage, especially post-menopause when absorption and utilization may shift. It’s great that you’re already feeling better with the iron supplement, but I completely understand your concern about long-term use. Your ferritin level suggests you have some iron stores, but your low serum iron and saturation indicate your body might still need more readily available iron. Supplements can be helpful for a period of time, but dietary sources of iron, along with vitamin C for better absorption, are excellent ways to maintain levels naturally. Foods like lentils, beans, tofu, quinoa, spinach, and fortified cereals are rich in iron, and pairing them with citrus fruits or bell peppers can boost absorption. Avoid drinking tea or coffee with meals, as they can inhibit iron absorption. As for aging concerns, taking supplements as directed for a specific deficiency is unlikely to accelerate aging; in fact, addressing deficiencies helps your body function optimally. Once your levels stabilize, you may be able to transition to maintaining them through diet alone. Regular blood tests can help monitor progress and ensure you’re meeting your needs without over-supplementing. If you have any ongoing concerns, a follow-up with your doctor or a dietitian familiar with plant-based nutrition could provide personalized guidance. I’m so glad you’re feeling better-keep up the great work on this journey!
Thankyou Dr Laurie for your brilliant detailed reply. You have given me a clear understanding of my iron levels that I needed. My doctor never explained anything to me. I now go forward on my vegan journey with your expert knowledge with a happy heart. You the Best.
Don’t say thank you enough for all the information you provide.
Very much appreciate you ❤
Ah thank you.
This was so informative,thank you so much.
Glad it was helpful!
Hi Dr. Laurie, On a short video without the comment line you were talking about Omega 3's. Should we be supplementing with Algae based DHA and EPA? You mentioned the unreliable conversion of ALA to DHA and EPA. Thanks!
Great question! Yes, supplementing with algae-based DHA and EPA can be a good idea, especially if you're not consuming fish or other direct sources of omega-3s. The point about the unreliable conversion of ALA (found in flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts) to DHA and EPA is important-our bodies can only convert a small percentage of ALA into these essential omega-3 forms, and the efficiency varies between individuals. Algae-based supplements are an excellent alternative because they provide a direct source of DHA and EPA, and they’re plant-based, making them a sustainable and vegan-friendly option. Ensuring adequate DHA and EPA intake supports brain health, heart health, and overall inflammation balance, so if you're not getting them from diet alone, supplementation could be very beneficial.
I use Complement Essential. lovecomplement.com?aff=62
Great video.
Need advice please. New Vegan and loving the lifestyle.
Im 58 post menapause...yay..
Felt fatigue and dizzy.
Iron test results:
S iron: 8.40
S Transferrin : 2.35
% Saturation : 15.98
S Ferritin : 69.8
Total bindind capacity: 52.58
Doctor just said take iron supplent with folic acid.
Im feeling so much better but am worried iron supplement can be aging etc.
Any advice.
Thank you for your kind words and for sharing your journey-it’s wonderful to hear that you’re loving the vegan lifestyle! Iron levels can indeed be tricky to manage, especially post-menopause when absorption and utilization may shift. It’s great that you’re already feeling better with the iron supplement, but I completely understand your concern about long-term use.
Your ferritin level suggests you have some iron stores, but your low serum iron and saturation indicate your body might still need more readily available iron. Supplements can be helpful for a period of time, but dietary sources of iron, along with vitamin C for better absorption, are excellent ways to maintain levels naturally. Foods like lentils, beans, tofu, quinoa, spinach, and fortified cereals are rich in iron, and pairing them with citrus fruits or bell peppers can boost absorption. Avoid drinking tea or coffee with meals, as they can inhibit iron absorption.
As for aging concerns, taking supplements as directed for a specific deficiency is unlikely to accelerate aging; in fact, addressing deficiencies helps your body function optimally. Once your levels stabilize, you may be able to transition to maintaining them through diet alone. Regular blood tests can help monitor progress and ensure you’re meeting your needs without over-supplementing.
If you have any ongoing concerns, a follow-up with your doctor or a dietitian familiar with plant-based nutrition could provide personalized guidance. I’m so glad you’re feeling better-keep up the great work on this journey!
Thankyou Dr Laurie for your brilliant detailed reply. You have given me a clear understanding of my iron levels that I needed. My doctor never explained anything to me. I now go forward on my vegan journey with your expert knowledge with a happy heart.
You the Best.