Why Following Supplement Fads Could Be a Recipe for Disaster (And What You Should Do Instead)

We’ve all been there scrolling through Instagram, coming across eye-catching ads promising miracle pills, or hearing your friend rave about the latest “must-have” supplement. It’s easy to think, “If it worked for them, it’ll work for me!” But here’s the reality: just because a supplement is popular or recommended by someone you trust, doesn’t mean it’s the right choice for you. In fact, it could be downright harmful.

Let me share a story. One of my acquaintances had been battling water retention and bloating for a while. She was convinced that it was her coffee causing all the issues—probably demonised by some hype influencer. So, she cut it out. But unfortunately, she still felt dreadful. It wasn’t until she posted that her male personal trainer and bodybuilder had suggested she try creatine monohydrate for a bit that I raised an eyebrow.

I asked her if I could have a quick word about it, and she gave me permission. After looking into it, I told her that creatine, often recommended for men, can cause water retention and bloating, particularly for women—exactly the symptoms she’d been struggling with. Once we tweaked her routine and got her off creatine, the bloating and swelling disappeared, and, most importantly, she could enjoy her coffee once again.

Why It’s Risky to Follow Supplement Trends

 This is a prime example of how supplements aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. While your friend or PT might think a particular supplement works wonders, it could end up doing more harm than good—especially if they don’t have the expertise to consider your unique health needs.

Take creatine as an example. It’s widely used by athletes, particularly men, to enhance performance and support muscle growth. But for many women, creatine can lead to bloating and water retention. It’s not that creatine is bad, but without understanding how it affects female physiology, it can result in exactly the issues my acquaintance faced—prolonged bloating and discomfort. And this is just one of many examples.

 Consider fat burners. These are often packed with stimulants like caffeine, which can lead to jitters, insomnia, and even heart palpitations, particularly if you have a sensitive constitution or are already on other medications. I don’t even need to mention that fat burners are absolutely useless! Pharmacies want your money only. And what about those detox teas we see everywhere? They often contain laxatives, which may cause dehydration, nausea, or even long-term digestive issues when used regularly. They may promise quick results, but at what cost?

The Importance of Seeking Professional Guidance

 This is where professional advice becomes crucial. No matter how many cool reviews you read or how many influencers recommend a supplement, consulting a health professional is the smartest move. A health coach or practitioner can assess your individual needs, your medical history, and your lifestyle to recommend the right supplements for you—and, more importantly, avoid the ones that could do harm.

 In my acquaintance’s case, a simple consultation could have saved her weeks of frustration. Many of my clients come to me after trying the latest supplement trend and experiencing discomfort. For example, I’ve had clients try protein powders that didn’t suit their digestive systems, leading to bloating and gas. Others have taken high doses of Vitamin D without realising that it’s best to have their levels checked before supplementing. Too much can cause nausea and even fatigue. One has been drinking C4 before her workout and during a day “to boost the energy” and for the taste. Needless to say, how dangerous it was and how shocked I remained after finding it out.

The Bottom Line: Supplements Should Complement, Not Replace, a Healthy Lifestyle

 Supplements should never be seen as a quick fix or a shortcut to a healthier life. They’re meant to complementyour diet, exercise, and overall well-being—not replace them. Before jumping on the latest supplement trend, take a moment to consider your personal health goals, and consult a professional who understands your unique needs.

 If you’re struggling with bloating, fatigue, or any other issues, or if you’re simply unsure about which supplements are actually beneficial for you, I’m here to help. Let’s work together to create a plan that’s tailored to you—not the latest fad.

Ready to make smarter supplement choices?

 Book a free consultation today, and let’s make sure you’re choosing the right supplements, in the right doses, for your body.