The three-step hierarchy
For optimal nutrition, follow a simple three-step hierarchy:
Step 1 — Whole Foods
Step 1: Whole Foods—fill your plate with vibrant fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes and nuts to capture the full spectrum of vitamins, minerals, fiber and phytonutrients in their natural form.
Step 2 — Whole-Food Supplements
Step 2: Whole-Food Supplements—when fresh produce falls short, bridge the gap with minimally processed powders or capsules made from whole fruits, veggies or seeds, preserving their natural nutrient matrix.
Step 3 — Synthetic Nutrients
Step 3: Synthetic Nutrients—as a last resort, turn to isolated vitamins or minerals (e.g., pure ascorbic acid) to prevent deficiencies when neither real foods nor whole-food powders are available.
For example, you’d first savor red bell peppers or kiwi for vitamin C, then reach for a pure acerola cherry powder, and only if necessary, take an ascorbic acid capsule to ensure you meet your needs. This tiered approach maximizes nutrient synergy, convenience and safety—putting whole food first, food-based supplements second, and synthetic compounds last.
