Vitamins, Minerals, & Supplements, Oh My!

You’re scrolling Instagram one evening, and see one of your favorite influencers touting the benefits of a green supplement, while she chugs a glass of what looks like sludgy swamp water. She claims she feels more energized, her complexion is glowing, and her sleep has improved! Who wouldn’t want those benefits—but is this supplement worth the hype? Let’s break it down!

What exactly is a dietary supplement? A dietary supplement is a manufactured product intended to supplement one’s diet by taking a pill, powder, or liquid. A supplement may include vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids and/ or enzymes. Supplements differ from medications in that the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) does not test the effectiveness, safety, or purity of nutritional supplements; it is up to the manufacturer to ensure the safety and efficacy of the supplements.

So why take supplements? Our bodies are highly complex, and require many types of vitamins and minerals to fuel the never ending chemical reactions that occur inside us. Even the most nutrient-dense diet can lack essential vitamins and minerals, and that is where supplements come in.

Where to start? I have included a list of supplements that I use myself, and I recommend for most clients. The links below will take you to amazon. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Multivitamin Multi-vitamin supplements have been endorsed by the most respected medical organizations in the world for their ability to help reduce the risk of nutrient deficiency.  Excessive vitamin supplementation isn't necessary.  However, having a daily multi very well might be.

Multi-Vitamin Elite by Thorne Research An excellent multi-vitamin choice. Formulated with the preferred forms of vitamins and minerals, this is actually two unique formulations. The AM formula is designed to support daytime energy, while the PM formula is designed to support better rest and recovery in the evening.

Multi+ Complete by BodyHealth multi+ is a convenient daily multi-vitamin with a full array of high quality and easy-to-absorb vitamins and minerals.

Probiotic Probiotics and digestive enzymes act as a powerful one-two punch for folks with digestive complaints and inadequate gut health. (Note: if you haven't been exercising regularly or paying attention to good nutrition, then that's probably you).

Floramend by Thorne Research This is a proprietary blend of three human-derived strains: Lactobacillus gasseri, Bifidobacterium bifidum, and Bifidobacterium longum. Each dose delivers 5 billion CFUs in an acid-resistant capsule to ensure delivery to the intestines.

Hyperbiotics Pro Probiotics for Women 6 Targeted Probiotic Strains: Specifically chosen for the benefits they provide to women, including digestive, healthy urinary and immune function.

Fish Oil Supplements Fish oil is rich in DHA and EPA, two powerful fats responsible for things like: increased metabolic rate, improved fat burning, and reducing our risk for a host of diseases (cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes).

Omega Superb by Thorne Research High in EPA and DHA, this liquid product comes in great-tasting raspberry lemonade, contains astaxanthins for antioxidant support, and is extremely pure.

Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega Highly concentrated formula that promises no fishy burps!

Greens Supplement (aka swamp water) While greens can't replace a diet sufficient in vegetables, the blend of antioxidants, enzymes, phytonutrients, vitamins and minerals in these products can be extremely helpful. Adding a serving of greens to every protein shake you drink is a good strategy.  Further, when on the road, greens can really come in handy.

Greens+ by Genuine Health The best, most research-proven greens product on the market today.

Protein Supplement If you're going to use a protein supplement, 40g/day is a good amount while 80g/day should represent an upper limit of supplemental protein intake. Of course, protein supplements should never be used as one's exclusive protein source.

Trutein by Body Nutrition Balanced whey, casein & egg ratios for maximal protein absorption, sustained-release to keep you full longer, and the tastiest flavors!

OWYN Vegan Protein Powder Vegan protein powder that is not gritty!

Genepro Unflavored Protein Powder with 30g of protein in a tiny scoop, this unflavored protein powder is great for baking and for those that do not like the taste of protein powders.

It's inevitable that among the thousands of supplements and hundreds of companies that make each one, our lists may not overlap. This blog is not an indictment of your favorite brand. Rather this is my preferred list of supplements and manufacturers, a list of supplements that I have personally had success with. I've chosen these because I like the ingredient lists, I like the quality control, and I like the prices.

Let me know your thoughts below!

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