Time for a Supplement & Medication Audit

With so many supplements and medications on the shelf, it’s easy for things to pile up. When was the last time you looked through the existing medications or supplements you have on hand? You may be surprised by how many may no longer be needed, or others which may have expired. That’s why a supplement and medication audit is a great to keep on top of your health and ensure that what you have is working for you and not against you.

Remember that before adding new supplements or even continuing old ones, it’s always best to check with your doctor. They can help ensure you’re not taking anything unnecessary or interacting with other medications.

Supplements should ideally be guided by blood tests or identified deficiencies, rather than a “just in case” approach. Use the checklist below to help review your current medications and supplements, and consider bringing a checklist to your next doctor appointment to give you confidence and clarity about what’s actually beneficial.

Here’s how to get started:

1. Check Expiry Dates
Go through your medications and supplements and note any that are past their expiration. Safely discard expired products according to local disposal guidelines.

2. Organise by Purpose
Sort what’s left into categories, for example: cold & flu, allergies, gut health, pain relief, or vitamins. This helps you see exactly what you have and avoids accidental duplicates.

3. Record Key Details
Use a checklist to log each item’s name, purpose, dosage, frequency, and expiry date. This snapshot makes it easy to identify products that may no longer be needed or need updating.

4. Review with Your Doctor
Bring your checklist to a healthcare provider. They can advise on which supplements or medications are truly necessary, help prevent interactions, and support a safe, personalised plan.

5. Set a Future Reminder
Repeating this audit annually ensures you stay on top of expiry dates, health needs, and any changes in your medication or supplement regimen.

A regular supplement and medication audit is a simple step that gives you peace of mind, helps you make informed decisions, and ensures your routine is aligned with your actual health needs!