Some say that eating a proper diet is all you need to get the recommended vitamins, minerals, and nutrients for optimal health. But the fact is that we often miss our nutritional-mark by eating suboptimal foods that lack many key nutrients.

To help bridge the nutritional gap where eating falls short, the Sprouts team has put together this simple guide to vitamins and supplements, featuring the “Essential Four” categories everyone should incorporate into their diet.

1. Probiotics

Probiotics are live beneficial microorganisms that are widely believed to support healthy digestion and immune function.* These friendly bacteria are essential for gut health, as stress, low-quality foods and over-the-counter-medications can destroy probiotic activity, which leads to lower immune function, yeast overgrowth and digestive disorders.

TRY: Sprouts Dual Action Acidophilus & Bifidus, which is ideal for adults because of significant amount of B. bifidum, the beneficial bacteria in the large intestine that diminishes as we age.

2. Superfood Supplements

Red, green or blue superfoods such as salmon, broccoli, goji berries, blueberries and tart cherries are rich in protein and/or packed with phytonutrients and trace minerals that help support overall health and vitality. Their mega boosting performance nourishes your body, strengthens your immune system, and protects you against diseases.*

3. Multivitamins

Vitamins are organic nutrients required by the body for growth, repair, normal metabolism and optimal health, but few of us get the right ones at the right levels. That’s because no single food contains all the vitamins and minerals the body requires; moreover, the combination of eating on the run, high levels of stress and consumption of highly processed foods can lead to nutrient deficiencies. The elderly, adolescents, pregnant and lactating women and vegetarians are especially at risk. Multivitamins provide essential vitamins and minerals needed to maintain optimum health.*

TRY: Sprouts Men’s and Women’s Multi, an iron-free multivitamin with standardized herbal extracts and lutein for eye health.*

4. Omega-Rich Oils

Omega-rich oils are found naturally in fish and flax, among other foods, and are readily available in tasty liquid or capsule form. These essential oils offer valuable nutritional support for healthy skin and brain function. Supportive but not conclusive research shows that consumption of Omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.*

TRY: Sprouts Omega-3 Once Daily offers 756 mgs of fatty acids per serving to support cardiovascular and brain health.*

*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized care.

Mission Nutrition

Sprouts Farmers Market was founded to provide a "stepping stone" to healthier living. We think there are four key steps along the way:

ADMISSION

You know you're not eating as healthy as you should. Finding and maintaining a balanced diet seems like a never-ending battle.

TRANSITION

You resolve to eat more balanced meals, to supplement your diet, and to complement that new resolve by gradually increasing physical activity.

NUTRITION

With the help of Sprouts, you can start eating a healthier diet and begin a smart and affordable regimen of the Essential 4 supplements.

FRUITION

You are feeling better, more energetic and ready to tackle life's challenges.