Suppplement Guide
Suppplement Guide
You know the feeling; standing in the supplement aisle, staring at rows of bottles, wondering what actually
works–if any? You’re not alone. The wellness industry is a confusing mess. Some supplements are game-
changers. Others? Just expensive pee.
I get it because I’ve been there. My health journey wasn’t just professional—it was personal too. In my 20s,
I was thriving on paper. I was deep into neuropsychology, sports science, and nutrition, running my own
health business, writing about cutting-edge research. But how I felt inside? Mostly wrecked. Chronic
fatigue. Gut issues. Anxiety. Hormonal chaos. Dull skin and acne breakouts. The worst part? I was "doing
everything right," yet my body was falling apart. Doctors shrugged. Their advice was just to “Eat healthy,
exercise, and stress less.” Not exactly groundbreaking—especially since I was already doing all of that.
So, I went all in. I tested over 1,000 biomarkers, experimented relentlessly, and read the hard science of
longevity, metabolism, and cellular repair. Over the year, I rebuilt my health and now I feel stronger,
sharper, and more energized than ever. And you know what’s funny? I actually aged backward. My
biological age is now 10 years younger than my chronological age. That’s when I realized the standard
medical system is failing us. The future is longevity science and regenerative medicine.
Now, I help people like you do the same. Because even the smartest people—entrepreneurs,
performers, high-achievers—come to me with the same questions:
So I wrote this quite to give you the answers. No fluff. No guesswork. Just science-backed essentials
that actually move the needle. I break down 10 key supplement categories—from skin and brain health to
energy, gut, and detox—so you can build a protocol that works for you. Because taking supplements isn’t
about following trends. It’s about strategy, science, and results.
BODY COMPOSITION
Measured with bi-yearly DEXA
BEFORE AFTER
METABOLISM
Measured with CGM, bi-yearly labs, and ketone and blood sugar meters
BEFORE AFTER
Acne Reversed
UV damage Reversed
Dehydration Reversed
HORMONES
Measured with bi-yearly labs, DUTCH test, ovulation strips, and cycle trackers
BEFORE AFTER
BEFORE AFTER
BEFORE AFTER
CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH
Measured with Vo2max testing, 8sleep, Oura, and HR monitors
BEFORE AFTER
SLEEP
Measured with 8sleep, Oura, and PSQI
BEFORE AFTER
Insomnia
Optimal sleep score (>90)
Sleep score <70
At top edge of all 8sleep users
Night-time anxiety
I didn’t start with perfect health or ideal genetics—I faced my share of challenges.
This journey didn’t just improve my health—it reshaped my entire life. It can shape
your too. For me, it led to a fulfilling marriage, a meaningful career, and deeper, more
authentic relationships with people that inspire me and help me excel in all life areas.
It showed me that true health isn’t just about feeling good; it’s about living fully,
with clarity, purpose, and the energy to achieve all your life goals.
Thank you for letting me share my story. Now, let’s dive into the strategies that’ll
boost your health, wellness, and life power.
– KONG QIU
DISCLAIMER
The information in this guide is for educational and informational purposes only. It’s not medical
advice and can’t be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. Always consult
your doctor regarding medical conditions and never disregard professional medical advice or
delay seeking it because of something you have read in this guide or internet. Using information in
this guide is at the sole risk of the reader. This guide contains links to other third-party websites
solely for the reader’s convenience and Inka Land do not recommend or endorse the contents of
the third-party sites.
How Can Supplements Help You?
Between 40% and 85% of the U.S. population uses supplements including
vitamins, minerals, herbal products, proteins, and amino acids. Supplements
contain bioactive compounds and nutrients with measurable effects on
energy, focus, cognition, skin, hair growth, weight, fat mass, blood sugar,
inflammation, joints, and other areas of health – even lifespan!
For example, collagen tripeptide and hyarulonic acid are skin building blocks
and can visibly reduce wrinkles and improve skin hydration. Another good
example is creatine monohydrate – a natural energy molecule that enhances
muscle strength and mental energy. A third example is L-tyrosine – a dopamine
precursor that can upregulate dopamine levels and improve focus. This guide
is more than list of supplements - I’ll review the roles and the mechanisms
briefly, along with recommended dosages.
References
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10464471/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21178089/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35166304/
How Do Supplements Work?
Supplements target various biological mechanisms in the body – here’s supplement division
based on their function or biological role in the body highlighting the mechanism of action,
SUPPORT MITOCHONDRIA Improve mitochondrial energy CoQ10, key energy molecule, boosts
(ENERGY) production. mitochondria.
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3921/10/6/967
CATEGORY EXAMPLES
L-Tryptophan
AMINO ACIDS L-Tyrosine
Glutamine
Phosphatidylcholine
PHOSPHOLIPIDS Phosphatidylserine
Phosphatidylinositol, etc.
Magnesium
MINERALS Zinc
Iron, etc.
Curcumin
PHYTOCHEMICALS Quercetin
Apigenin, etc.
Omega-3 (EPA/DHA)
FATTY ACIDS Omega-6
ALA
DHEA
HORMONES Melatonin
Pregnenolone
CoQ10
COENZYMES
Magnesium
Glutathione,
ANTIOXIDANTS Alpha-Lipoic Acid
Astaxanthin
Lactobacillus
PROBIOTICS Bifidobacterium
Saccharomyces boulardii
Inulin
PREBIOTICS Pectin
D-Mannose
Activated Charcoal
CHELATING AGENTS Chlorella
(THESE BIND TOXINS) Zeolite
Quercetin
Supplements
In the following pages, I’ll highlight some of my top
evidence-based supplements for health. I’ve narrowed
it down to the top three or four per category, focusing
on what they are and how to use them.
5
Categories
ENERGY
SKIN
FOCUS
BRAIN FUNCTION
BRAIN HEALTH
BLOOD SUGAR
GUT HEALTH
SLEEP
FETOX
5
How to get more energy
VITAMIN B COMPLEX
Vitamin B complex include multiple B vitamins. They acts as cofactors in converting food
to energy (that is, carbohydrates, fats, and proteins). Supplementation may be particularly
beneficial for individuals with malabsorption issues, low dietary intake of B vitamins (e.g.,
vegans or plant-based), or genetic variants like MTHFR and COMT that impair vitamin
metabolism. It aids in optimizing energy production and cognitive function, especially in
cases of deficiency. Watch my video on optimizing B12 levels.
MCT OIL
These fats help your cells use ketones for energy, making them especially effective when
you're fasting. They also help control blood sugar levels and fat loss. I take them in the
morning to enhance cognitive performance or before a workout. The coconut-based version
contains more C8 oil, known for its brain-boosting benefits. Store the oil at room temperature
or in the fridge and protect it from sunlight and heat. To learn more about the effects of
MCT oil, check out the episode featuring Dr. Dominic D’Agostino.
COQ10 (UBIQUINOL)
CoQ10 (Coenzyme Q10) is a potent antioxidant that boosts mitochondrial energy production,
reduces fatigue, supports the heart, and eases migraines. This is especially beneficial for those
with low CoQ10 levels, which can decline due to aging, metabolic disease, mold illness, virus,
or another medical condition. I usually take 100-200 mg of liposomal CoQ10 during times of
stress or low energy – the benefits improve over time. It’s lipid-soluble, so take it with fat.
6
How to Anti-Age the Skin
HYARULONIC ACID (HA)
HA (hyaluronic acid) provides internal moisture, helps with skin regeneration, and
boosts collagen production for smooth, plump skin. Many people apply HA serums to
the face to hydrate the skin; however, to get it to reach the deeper layers you need an
oral supplement too. Ideally, use both. Effective doses start at 150 mg daily but I take
300 mg and it’s been the best skin hydration protocol for me.
ASTAXANTHIN
Astaxanthin is a potent antioxidant that protects skin from
UV damage – it’s like an internal sunscreen. It improves
skin texture, reduces wrinkles, enhances moisture, and
prevents sunburn from the inside. Optimal doses start at
4 mg daily, but you can go higher too. I take 6-12 mg per
day. It’s fat soluble so take with food. Learn more from
my interview with Dr. Alexis Ortega
COLLAGEN TRIPEPTIDE
Collagen tripeptides are smaller, better-absorbed protein
fragments compared to regular hydrolyzed collagen. They
improve skin elasticity, hydration, and collagen – making skin
smoother, more plump, and younger. It’s especially important
to start supplementing after the age 25, as the body’s natural
collagen production drops. Opt for a multiform collagen
product to also benefit joints, cartilage, gut, hair, nails, eyes,
and muscles. I take 5-10 grams of multi-collagen daily
(studied dose), always with tripeptides (3g/d). The difference
to regular collagen supplements is huge! My favorite is the
IncaCao multi-collagen complex because it contains tri-
peptides (get a discount with code INKA)
9
How To Stop Sugar Cravings
L-TRYPTOPHAN
L-tryptophan is a precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates appetite and
cravings for carbohydrates, including sugar. Low serotonin levels can trigger sugar
cravings as carbohydrates boost brain serotonin levels. What lowers serotonin? Mostly
stress, lack of sleep, a low-carbohydrate diet, lack of sunlight, or lack of exercise. Taking
500-1000 mg of L-Tryptophan can temporarily support serotonin and reduce
carbohydrate cravings — especially when paired with exercise, sunlight exposure, and
stress management because they’re needed for serotonin conversion.
B6
IRON
FOLATE VITAMIN D
VITAMIN D SUNLIGHT DARKNESS
STRESS MANAGEMENT
SEROTONIN N-ACETYL MELATONIN
TRYPTOPHAN 5-HTP (5-HT) SEROTONIN
5-HTP
7
How To Focus Better
L-TYROSINE
Tyrosine is an amino acid that supports alertness, focus, and motivation by being the
precursor of dopamine and norepinephrine. A scientific review showed that tyrosine might
be particularly helpful for focus when dopamine or norepinephrine are temporarily depleted
due to stress. A typical dose is 500 mg to 2000 mg, depending on your needs.
CAFFEINE + L-THEANINE
Caffeine blocks a sleep-hormone called adenosine and increases stress hormones cortisol
and noradrenaline, boosting focus and alertness. Because it increases sympathetic nervous
system, it can also cause jitters or anxiety. Combining caffeine with L-theanine, a calming
amino acid, creates a balanced effect that improves cognitive performance and helps to
sustain focus for longer. A common dose is 100 mg of caffeine with 200 mg of L-theanine.
Note that if you’re prone to brain fog or have cognitive fatigue, caffeine may also blur your
focus, because it reduces blood flow to the brain. Watch my video on L-theanine.
BACOPA MONNIERI
Bacopa Monnieri is an herb that support focus, cognitive function, and calmness Although no
clear mechanism of action is yet established, it seems to increase acetylcholine and brain
blood flow and has antioxidant qualities against brain inflammation. It’s also shown to
improve ADHD symptoms. Take 300 mg per day in the morning for alertness and focus.
How to Calm Anxiety
Anxiety is a biopsychological state that includes both feelings and nervous system imbalance.
Supplements can’t address the underlying thinking patterns, but they can help calm down the
nervous system and stress response.
L-THEANINE
L-theanine calms anxiety, eases stress, and prevents hyperactivity. It’s not sedative but it
increases alpha waves in the brain, which helps with relaxation, calmness, and creativity.
L-theanine also supports immunity and gut health, especially if combined with L-glutamine. I
love to take it with morning coffee to balance the effect, or in travels and before busy events to
calm the mind. Watch this video to learn more: I used L-Theanine, and here’s what happened
MAGNESIUM L-THREONATE
N-ACETYL-CYSTEINE
NAC is an amino acid that helps reduce obsessive and
compulsive behaviors, including those seen in OCD, body-
focused repetitive behaviors, and addiction. It boosts
glutathione, the body’s master antioxidant, which helps
reduce inflammation and support neurological health when
used for 8-12 weeks (or up to 6 months). Since long-term use
isn’t well-studied, I recommend taking regular breaks.
8
How To Boost Brain Function (cognition
+ mental energy)
CREATINE MONOHYDRATE
Creatine monohydrate is a natural substance that increases cellular energy, mental energy,
cognition, and muscle strength. It’s beneficial during mentally or physically demanding life
periods and after sleep deprivation. It can even improve sleep duration after exercise. I take
3-5 grams on days when I need extra energy or have done resistance exercise. It’s also safe
before bed and has no immediate impact on blood sugar.
CHOLINE
Choline is an essential nutrient that supports the brain, liver, and energy. It’s a precursor for
acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter for attention, memory, neuroplasticity, mood, and muscle
control. Higher intake of choline is linked to better cognition, and it protects against
dementia. dietary choline is also important (found, for example, in meat, egg yolks, liver, and
salmon). There are many supplement forms of choline, but Alpha-GPC and citicholine are the
best for brain health and mental performance. A common dose for supplementation is
around 250-500 mg daily.
6
How to Balance Blood Sugar
BERBERINE
Berberine is a natural compound that helps lower blood sugar by improving insulin
sensitivity and reducing the liver’s glucose production. It's a great option to manage
blood sugar and lipids naturally. I take 500 mg with meals, especially when having
carbs, and it helps as you can see from my average blood sugar levels in the graph.
CHROMIUM
Chromium is best known for its effects on blood sugar regulation but also has
antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and appetite-suppressing effects. It modestly
reduces HbA1c (~0.54%). Its mechanism of action is not well-understood, but it
seems to promote glucose transport into insulin-sensitive tissues. I sometimes
use 200 µg when eating high-carbohydrate meals to promote insulin sensitivity.
Long-term chromium supplementation is not studied well enough.
9
How to Anti-Age the Brain
BERRY POWDER (ESPECIALLY BLUEBERRY)
Berries are loaded with polyphenols that protect your brain
from inflammation caused by toxins, stress, bad sleep, and
environmental stress. A systematic review showed that
berry-based compounds enhance blood flow to the brain,
frontal lobe function, and processing speed. I’m a big fan of
berry powders—just a teaspoon gives you the antioxidant
power of 100 grams of fresh berries.
CURCUMIN
Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, is a powerful anti-inflammatory that crosses the
blood-brain barrier to protect neurons from oxidative damage. It helps reduce plaque build-
up linked to aging and memory loss. For better absorption, I always take it in liposomal form
or with a bit of oil.
11
How to Fix Gut Lining
Gut health is key to your overall vitality and well-being. It plays a major role in digestion,
nutrient absorption, and immunity. Your gut even has its own nervous system, which is why
those "gut feelings" are real—it's your gut's nerve cells sending signals. When your gut is
healthy, you're more in tune with those signals, making it easier to trust your instincts.
L-GLUTAMINE
L-glutamine is an amino acid that supports gut health by strengthening the intestinal lining
and improving nutrient absorption. It helps repair the gut lining, especially when it’s
compromised by inflammation, food poisoning or antibiotics. A typical dose is 5-30 grams
per day, depending on individual needs.
SODIUM BUTYRATE
Sodium butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid that supports gut health by nourishing the cells
of the colon and reducing inflammation. It's especially helpful for strengthening the gut
barrier lining and preventing harmful toxins and bacteria from entering the bloodstream. It
also plays a positive role in immunity, mood, and energy levels. Typical doses range from
500 mg to 1500 mg per day.
BPC-157
BPC-157 is a peptide known for its tissue repair properties, including the gut tissue. It is a
synthesized analog of the Body Protection Compound which is a gut-protecting and
regenerative natural compound. I have used BPC-157 both for tendon repair and gut lining
repair, and I only have positive experiences. I use Bioprime BPC-157. They also have copper
peptides (get a discount with code INKA)
How To Sleep Better
MAGNESIUM L-THREONATE (MG-LT)
Magnesium L-threonate can cross the blood-brain barrier and directly influence brain
health. Most forms of magnesium support relaxation, but L-threonate is particularly
effective in calming the nervous system, improving memory consolidation, and reducing
cortisol levels before bed. One study showed that Mg-LT may even increase synapse
density in the hippocampus - a key brain area to memory and neuroplasticity. Optimal
dosages range from 1,500 mg to 2,000 mg per day (120-200 mg of elemental magnesium).
GLYCINE
Glycine, a small amino acid lowers body temperature, enhance REM sleep, and help to
relax the body making it a great pre-sleep supplement. Studies find that 3 g of glycine
before bedtime improves sleep quality and daytime energy levels. Plus, it tastes like
sugar, so you can add it to your evening tea for sweetness without blood sugar effect.
MELATONIN
Melatonin is a hormone produced in the brain’s pineal gland in response to darkness.
It has multiple health benefits, one being sleep induction. Small doses of 0.3 mg to 1
mg are often sufficient for sleep benefits. Melatonin is also a powerful antioxidant and
anti-inflammatory agent and can improve immune function and gut health.
How to Detox
Detoxification is the process by which the body eliminates toxins, heavy metals,
microplastics, mold, and aged cells from the body. It’s beneficial to test heavy metals and
mold load regularly (use urine analysis for mold and hair analysis for heavy metals)
QUERCETIN
Quercetin is a powerful flavonoid found in many fruits and vegetables that help to detox
from alfatoxins and aspergillus parasiticus (mold particles) found in imported foods (coffee,
nuts, peanuts), and water-damaged buildings. It’s also an antifungal agent and could inhibit
the overgrowth of yeast in the body (candida albicans).
CURCUMIN
Curcumin can bind toxic metals such as lead, aluminum, and cadmium, reducing oxidative
stress and preventing cell damage. Furthermore, it’s a senomorphic which means it clears
out aged cells from the body. The bioavailability is not great, so it needs to be taken as a
liposomal supplement or combined with piperine to enhance the absorption. Typical dose is
500–1500 milligrams daily.
Insomnia
Mild on the stomach and great
Magnesium bound to Stress, anxiety
Glycinate High for sleep.
glycine Pain
Good for long-term use.
Tension
Brain Fog
Best form for brain Slightly more expensive, but
Insomnia
L-Threonate health and brain Moderate-High excellent for brain health and
Anxiety & stress
magnesium levels cognition
Focus issues
Magnesium bound to
Fatigue
L-Aspartate aspartic acid, involved in Moderate-High
Muscle soreness
energy metabolism.
5
How to make supplements effective?
– Remember the Four P’s
PURPOSE
Have a clear outcome goal with the
supplements and know the science.
PRECISION
Make sure you get these right: timing,
dosing, and supporting nutrients.
PERSONALIZATION
Tailor your supplement regimen to your
age, gender, health conditions, existing
medicationsm supplements, and lifestyle.
PURITY
Choose non-toxic, lab-tested, clean
formulas without excess fillers (you don’t
need those in your body)
“Which Brand DoYou Recommend?”
I get this question a lot, and for a good reason. In 2024 there are almost 1,500
supplement manufacturers so navigating the market can definitely feel like a maze.
Do these companies lab test their products? Are they dosing accurately? Are the
ingredients they use bioavailable? Is the price tag reasonable? Is their packaging
designed to protect from UV and heat? Is their approach rooted in science? Most
importantly, do their supplements work?
The good news is that most of these questions can be answered with a quick visit to the
company's website. Look for these signs to separate wheat from the chaff.
GREEN LIGHTS
RED FLAGS
They don't do any lab tests or provide reports, even if you ask.
Either no ingredients list, or they're using lots of fillers (see more later).
There are a lot of negative reviews, and the good ones seem faked.
They use big words excessively, like "miracle" or "revolutionary".
They don’t use words like “lab tested”, “science-based”, “researched”
They say it’s “FDA approved” Remember. FDA NEVER approves supplements
Webpage Detective Work
ADVISORY BOARD
DoNotAge.org
UNSCIENTIFIC,
EXAGGERATION WORDS
LIKE “MIRACLE”
Supplements
Noordcode (code INKA)
Do Not Age (code INKA)
Life Extension
NOW Foods
Bioptimizers
Doctor’s Best
Ecosh
OstroVit
Liposomal
Actinovo
Nordaid
Coffee
Not Your Average (code INKA)
Collagen
IncaCao (code INKA)
Mushrooms
Kääpä Mushrooms (code INKA)
Here’s a real-life example of how my blood sugar response to IvyBear Hair Gummies,
Europe’s most popular hair gummies. I noticed the “additional ingredients” include sugar,
glucose syrup, dextrose, and maltodextrin. Unfortunately, these are common fillers in
gummy supplements.
High fructose corn syrup, Maltodextrin (sugars) Rice flour (natural binder)
BIOAVAILABILI SHELF
FORM BENEFITS RISKS BEST FOR
TY LIFE
Slower absorption;
Tasteless;
potential fillers;
easy to take to
Capsule Lower absorption Moderate Long Most supplements
travels;
compared to liposomal
precise dosing.
or sublingual
Any supplement to
Higher absorption;
More expensive; enhance absorption;
Liposomal protects ingredients Very high Moderate
not always available swallowing difficulties,
from degradation.
glutathione, B12
Inconsistent dosing;
Can mix with liquids; may clump; Amino acids, protein,
Powder Moderate Long
easy for high doses. taste issues; and electrolytes.
potential fillers
What time should I take supplement X?
The timing of certain supplements matter. Stimulatory supplements are great for the morning, fat-
soluble vitamins must be paired with meals (or fat), and calming supplements work in the evening
for relaxation and sleep.
Tip. If you’re taking fat-soluble supplement during a fast, take 1 teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil
with the supplement to improve absorption.
B vitamins
ALA Vitamin D Magnesium
Choline Vitamin K2 (MK-7) Glycine
Berberine Melatonin
L-tyrosine Vitamin E Chamomile
DHEA Melissa
Lion’s Mane Omega-3 Tryptophan
Boron Valerian
Caffeine Curcumin Magnolia Bark
Selenium Chamomile
Rhodiola Rosea Resveratrol Holy Basil (Tulsi)
Chromium Lavender
Panax Ginseng Berberine Inositol
Betaine HCl Passionflower
Ginko Bilopa Astaxanthin Lemon Balm
Digestive Lime leaves
Mucuna Pruriens CLA Apigenin
Enzymes Verbena
Cordyceps Phytosterols Reishi
Calcium Hops
Yerba Mate Lutein Chamomile
Bacopa Monnieri Zeaxanthin Lavender
Saffron
Many clinics offer a basic blood panel as a walk-in service without a prescription. In
Europe we have SynLab. Choose the lab tests based on your health goal and protocol
you’re using. It can include, for example, vitamin and mineral status, triglycerides,
homocysteine and CRP (inflammation), omega3/6 status, hormones, gut health, biological
age, or toxin load.
5
Next Steps
Thank you for reading. Supplements can be a good start, but health &
longevity is so much more. If you want to keep crafting a healthier future,
follow my free content or consider my coaching ([email protected])
x,Inka Land
MSc, BSc, YouTuber, podcast host, author, spekaer
YouTube
12