What I’ve Learned About Nutritional Supplements
Insights from Orthomolecular, Anti-Aging, and Functional Medicine
by Richard Z. Cheng, M.D., Ph.D.
Through my 50 years in medicine—including over three decades in Orthomolecular, Anti-Aging, and Functional Medicine—I’ve learned several critical truths about nutritional supplements that are often overlooked by mainstream and commercial products. I first encountered Dr. Linus Pauling’s high-dose vitamin C therapy 33 years ago, which sparked my enduring commitment to Orthomolecular Medicine. Around the same time, I became actively involved in clinical weight management, giving me firsthand insight into the metabolic and nutritional challenges patients face. These long-standing insights, rooted in both scientific evidence and clinical experience, have directly shaped the development of TotoCell® Nutrition—our signature formula designed to meet real-world clinical needs with precision and integrity.
1. RDA vs. ODA: A Critical Distinction
Most supplements on the market are formulated according to the RDA (Recommended Daily Allowance)—levels set by regulatory agencies like the FDA. However, the RDA represents the minimum needed to avoid deficiency, not what is optimal for health.
In contrast, the ODA (Optimal Daily Allowance) is based on nutritional science and clinical research, aiming to support long-term wellness and disease prevention. For therapeutic and preventive purposes, we follow ODA—not RDA—in our protocols.
2. Nutrient Variety: Broad-Based Support Is Essential
An effective nutritional program should include a wide range of essential vitamins and minerals. Deficiencies in key nutrients—such as Vitamins A, B-complex, C, D, E, K2, magnesium, selenium, zinc, and omega-3 fats—are alarmingly widespread, contributing to poor health outcomes globally. A broad-spectrum supplement helps bridge these nutritional gaps.
3. Antioxidants: Defending Against Oxidative Stress
Oxidative stress, driven by toxin overload and insufficient antioxidant intake, is a common underlying mechanism in chronic diseases and aging. Supplementing with a wide variety of antioxidants—not just a few isolated ones—is crucial to neutralize free radicals and support cellular health.
4. Mitochondrial Nutrition: Supporting the Body’s Power Plants
Mitochondrial dysfunction is a fundamental but under-recognized contributor to nearly all chronic conditions and to aging itself. Supporting and restoring mitochondrial function is essential in any serious health plan. That’s why we designed TotoCell® Nutrition to include key mitochondrial nutrients along with those supporting cardiovascular, bone, and overall metabolic health.
5. Beware of Unnecessary Calcium and Iron
Most adults already have sufficient—or excessive—levels of calcium and iron. Supplementing these nutrients without prior testing may do more harm than good. Yet, surprisingly, most multivitamins still contain calcium and/or iron by default. We intentionally exclude these minerals from our formulations unless indicated by lab testing.
6. Free from Harmful Additives and Preservatives
A significant but often ignored issue with commercial supplements is the use of chemical preservatives, artificial colors, binders, and synthetic fillers—some of which may disrupt metabolism, contribute to inflammation, or interfere with nutrient absorption.
TotoCell® Nutrition contains no unnecessary additives, preservatives, or artificial ingredients. Every component is selected for its clinical benefit, purity, and compatibility with sensitive individuals. Our goal is to nourish—not burden—the body.
My Journey and the Birth of TotoCell® Nutrition
When I first began practicing anti-aging and functional medicine, I purchased a variety of commercial supplements—for myself and my parents. Although we all experienced noticeable improvements in energy and well-being, one problem persisted: the sheer number of pills—often 20–30 capsules or tablets per day.
Eventually, I realized the need for a comprehensive yet convenient solution. That’s why we created TotoCell Nutrition—a formulation that includes all essential vitamins, antioxidants, and mitochondrial nutrients, without unnecessary additives or fillers, and conveniently packaged for daily use at home or while traveling.
TotoCell Nutrition is not available in retail stores. It is exclusively offered to our patients and clients under medical supervision, ensuring proper integration into personalized health programs and ongoing monitoring for safety and efficacy.
