What makes a person healthy? Proper diet, good nutrition, daily exercise, possessing a positive attitude, having a healthy social life and balance all contribute to good health.

Chiropractic adjustments help the body function more efficiently by restoring the function of the nervous system, thereby strengthening the immune system. We believe that chiropractic care is part of the solution; supplementation is another key component of good health.

Everyone can benefit from supplements, because it is well known that the food we eat is nutritionally deficient. Even fresh vegetables are often depleted nutritionally because over-utilization of the soil in which they grow. And the time it takes to transport vegetables to market causes them to lose valuable nutrients, such as calcium, magnesium, B vitamins, potassium and antioxidants.

If you recommend supplements to your patients, consider having those products readily available for purchase.

Here are some suggestions to help you promote supplements:

1) Educate yourself and your staff.  Approximately every four to six weeks, invite a representative from the supplement companies you use to introduce new products and train you on the use of other supplements.

2) Launch a ‘supplement of the month’ program.  As with all aspects of care, an educated patient is your greatest asset. Feature one specific supplement each month and write a short explanation of its benefits.

Post it in each treatment room; send it out in your newsletter; and have fliers available in the waiting room.

3) Encourage your staff to use supplements.   When your staff uses supplements — and feel healthier and more energetic — they will naturally talk to patients about them.

4) Display the supplements where patients can see them. Don’t be afraid to market your supplements, your patients will thank you for them!

5) Label the supplements according to their benefits.  For example, osteoporosis, allergies, indigestion and immune system. This will help patients decide, with your help, which ones are best for them.

6) Write a patient newsletter.  In addition to your “supplement of the month,” consider an article about an herbal supplement that can help with timely issues, such as fall allergies, stress, immune system, women’s issues, digestion or bone loss.

7) Stress quality. Over-the-counter supplements are not always reliable or controlled.

8) Conduct nutritional seminars.  Supplement vendors are happy to give the seminars — a great way to educate your patients.

Nutrition is a hot topic these days and the market is rapidly growing. It is just one more way you can help your patients lead an active, healthy lifestyle and increase the health of your own practice.

Susan Hoy is an award-winning team trainer and consultant. She can be reached at 215-674-0130; suzzhoy@aol.com; or through her Web site at www.beefitup.net.