I have a childhood memory—Grandma Schuneman with a brown bottle of cod liver oil in one hand and a tablespoon in the other—chasing the cousins down one by one. “It’s good for what ails you,” she declared. Anticipating someone’s smart reply, “And if nothing ails you, it’s good for you anyway.” I don’t exactly know what cod liver oil is.

I do know that omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil among other things, are probably good for a number of things. And because I have in my hand a copy of Deanna Minich, Ph.D., C.N.’s latest book, Quantum Supplements, A Total Health and Wellness Makeover with Vitamins, Minerals, and Herbs, I know more than I did a few days ago.

I have a friend who’s been ordering supplements online for more than twenty years. He’s a retired psychologist and an indefatigable researcher. Internet, magazines, books, recommendations from practitioners—he has a great knack for figuring out what he needs and why. For those of us who have neither the patience or the skills, Deanna Minich has done pretty much the same thing. It’s a great tool to help you figure out what might benefit you and why.

Please note, though, that this book is meant to be an introductory, informational guide. It’s not meant to diagnose, treat, or prescribe