Nutritionist Advice for Getting the Most From Vitamins with Jill Larson

Today on Beyond the Bleeds, we’re joined by John and our returning guest Jill Larson, as we dig deep into the often-confusing world of vitamins. We explore what vitamins truly are, why they matter for our health, and how they interact in our bodies like instruments in a symphony. We break down the difference between fat-soluble and water-soluble vitamins, examine whether you really need supplements, and share practical tips for getting nutrients from your diet, especially for those of us in the bleeding disorder community.

Jill Larson is our in-house nutritionist at the Hemophilia Outreach Center. She is a nutrition and dietetic technician registered by the Commission in Dietetic Registration, with a bachelor’s degree in nutrition biology and chemistry and a master’s in molecular toxicology. Jill combines scientific rigor with a passion for clear, accessible health education, making her a true asset for anyone seeking to understand nutrition in daily life.

“You can’t just isolate one vitamin any more than you could just isolate one single musician all of the time… Then you wouldn’t have much of a symphony.” ~Jill Larson

Today on Beyond the Bleeds:

• Vitamins are essential nutrients the body can’t make (or can’t make enough of), and they support everything from energy production to growth and immune function.
• Vitamins are categorized as fat-soluble (A, D, E, K) or water-soluble (eight B vitamins and C), and these categories affect how they are stored and excreted.
• Vitamins work in concert, deficiency in one or taking mega-doses of another can throw off your body’s balance.
• Most healthy adults can get what they need from a varied diet built around whole, mostly unprocessed foods, supplements are mainly for those with specific needs or deficiencies.
• Certain groups may require supplements: people with bleeding disorders (e.g., iron), pregnant individuals, those with restricted diets, or specific medical conditions.
• Supplements can interfere with lab tests and medications; always tell your healthcare provider about any supplements you’re taking.
• When choosing supplements, look for third-party testing (USP, NSF, Consumer Labs) and avoid “mega-dose” products, more is not better.
• Simple dietary changes, like increasing fruits, vegetables, beans, lentils, and whole grains, support optimal vitamin intake; consider the Mediterranean diet as a gold standard

Looking for practical tips, expert advice, and a sense of community while living with or supporting someone with a bleeding disorder?

Subscribe to Beyond the Bleeds, the podcast that explores life with hemophilia, von Willebrand disease, and other rare conditions. Hosted by Heather Hansen and John Mazzariello, we bring you real stories, expert insights, and heartfelt conversations designed to help you navigate life Beyond the Bleeds.

Apple | Spotify | iHeart | Amazon Music | Stitcher | Pandora | DeezerDon’t miss the Hemophilia Outreach Center’s Winter Education Program!We invite you to join us on Saturday, December 6th, 2025, at the Oneida Hotel in Green Bay for a day filled with community, education, and celebration.

This special event will feature expert presentations and interactive sessions designed to support and empower patients and caregivers. Attendees will also enjoy a delicious lunch, opportunities to connect with others in the bleeding disorder community, and a variety of activities that make learning fun and engaging. Families are encouraged to bring their children for kid-friendly activities, including a memorable visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Registration is quick and easy at hemophiliaoutreach.org/eventsBusinesses interested in making an impact can support the event by donating raffle items that help raise funds for patients living with bleeding disorders.To contribute, please contact Heather at [e-mail]

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