Consumers often struggle to make informed decisions about supplements due to limited guidance, marketing noise, and inconsistent product quality. The First Five is a focused supplement framework developed by Dr. Neal Smoller, our founder and holistic pharmacist with over two decades of clinical experience.
These five nutrients were selected based on three evidence-based criteria:
This science-backed framework is designed to help you address nutritional gaps efficiently and avoid unnecessary supplementation.
Most wellness seekers face at least one of the following roadblocks when trying to improve their health through supplements. They’re typically:
The First Five was designed to cut through this noise, reduce guesswork, and help you focus on what’s most essential.
Here’s a breakdown of the five essential nutrients, including their core benefits, optimal forms, and evidence-based dosing recommendations.
Omega-3s play a central role in regulating inflammation, supporting cognitive function, improving gut health, protecting the cardiovascular system, and more.
Modern diets are disproportionately high in omega-6 fats (pro-inflammatory) and low in omega-3s (anti-inflammatory), often leading to systemic inflammation. Most Americans consume omega-6 to omega-3 at a 20:1 ratio, but an ideal balance is closer to 4:1.
Probiotics support gut health by restoring the balance of beneficial bacteria in the digestive system — an essential function for guts under constant threat from stress, medications, and poor diet.
A healthy microbiome also influences immune health, nutrient absorption, and even mental health conditions like depression. However, not all probiotics are effective! Strain selection and survivability are critical.
Vitamin D3 facilitates calcium absorption and supports immune health. Calcium hydroxyapatite — a highly bioavailable form or a form of the nutrient that is easily utilized by the body — strengthens the bone matrix and contributes to nerve function, muscle contraction, and blood clotting.
Together, these nutrients are essential for maintaining skeletal integrity and reducing the risk of fractures, especially as we age. 95% of Americans are not meeting daily requirements for vitamin D according to data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys, and most are unable to get adequate calcium through diet alone.
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body, accounting for about 30% of the body’s total protein content. It is a structural protein, meaning it serves as a scaffold that supports the body’s connective tissues.
Collagen provides the protein and amino acid building blocks our bodies need to maintain muscle mass, support bone health, and promote skin integrity. While general protein supplements like whey or plant-based options can be helpful, collagen is uniquely suited for connective tissue repair and long-term structural support.
Even with a balanced diet, it’s difficult to consistently meet micronutrient needs.
A high-quality multivitamin fills common nutritional gaps and supports metabolic health, cognitive function, and immune resilience. Look for multivitamin formulations with transparent labeling, active forms of nutrients (e.g., methylated B vitamins), and dosing appropriate to your health status and concerns.
You may not need all five nutrients — it depends on your current lifestyle, diet, and health concerns. But most people will benefit from at least one or more of these essentials. The First Five are not intended to replace healthy habits, but to enhance and support them.
For personalized guidance on how to build your supplement foundation, schedule a free consultation with our expert team. We’ll help you identify nutrient gaps, assess lifestyle factors, and develop a sustainable plan tailored to your goals.
Optimize what matters most. Start with the First Five.
Vital 5
Shop
Peek behind the curtain of supplement industry misinformation and enjoy special promotions, podcast episodes, and our No-BS approach to holistic care, sent weekly.
We built the model for finding supplements that work for your wellness, your wallet, and the world. Learn More
Customer Service
Shop
Peek behind the curtain of supplement industry misinformation and enjoy special promotions, podcast episodes, and our No-BS approach to holistic care, sent weekly.
We built the model for finding supplements that work for your wellness, your wallet, and the world. Learn More
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Use only as directed. Consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. The information provided hereinis intended for your general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. If you have or suspect you have a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.