I am happy to share my personal experience with supplements. I often get asked what I take as a supplement and if I can clear up a bit of the confusion about them. Below is a list of my favorites, why I take them, when I take them, and how they have positively impacted my well-being. The information about supplements is abundant, maybe too much, and it can get quite confusing when deciding what to take.
Over the years I have become my own guinea pig and through trial and error, I have found the 7 go-to supplements that work well for me. Join me in the exploration of the benefits and effects of each one.
1. Magnesium:
- Why I take it: Magnesium is one of the most
critical minerals in the human body. It
is involved in hundreds of enzymatic reactions and is found in all your
tissues but mainly in your bones, muscles, and brain. Magnesium is crucial for maintaining healthy
muscle and nerve function, promoting sleep, and supporting overall well-being.
Studies show that about 50% of the population is deficient in Magnesium. I started
taking it during chemotherapy and haven't stopped since.
-When I take it: I like to take Magnesium at night since its muscle relaxant effects help me sleep better.
-How much I take: Generally 360mg is enough, in times when I am particularly stressed I double that
2. Zinc:
- Why I take it: Zinc became most known during COVID-19
as essential for strengthening the immune system. This is its strong suit however,
there is so much more to zinc. To start, every
enzyme reaction in the brain involves zinc, it is vital for the development and
function of the central nervous system, and it is critical in the metabolism of
protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Additionally, Zinc accelerates wound healing,
helps maintain healthy skin, and increases energy levels.
-When I take it: Since it doesn’t sit well with my
stomach, I take it after lunch. I do not tolerate Zinc in the morning, it gives
me nausea even when I take it with food. Note that zinc will turn your pee fluorescent.
3. Vitamin D3:
- Why I take it: Vitamin D3 is the superstar vitamin.
If you ask me, it should be put into tap water! And if you are not taking it,
ask your doctor about it… chances are that you are deficient. I have been
taking D3 for as long as I remember and now that I am older I take quite a bit
of it; Vitamin D acts similarly to a hormone in
the body, it helps regulate calcium absorption, it is critical for supporting
bone health, and good immune function. It plays an important role in cognitive
functions and supports mood regulation and a positive mental outlook. The
receptor of vitamin D are all around the body and are shown to influence the
expression of thousands of genes. Note that
vitamin D is fat-soluble so it should be checked by your dr. regularly.
-When I take it: It is recommended to take D3 within
30min of waking up in the morning…I do my best to follow the recommendations
although from time to time I forget. I take it in liquid form for ease of use.
4. Vitamin B12:
- Why I take it: B12 is essential for nerve health,
energy production, and the formation of red blood cells. It supports cellular
repair and function, cellular energy metabolism, and neurological function. Additionally,
B12 enhances cognitive function, improves mood, and increases energy. Bottom
line I take it because it keeps me calm…and for those of you that know me, I am
a pretty calm person…for the most part.
-When I take it: first thing in the morning with my
breakfast.
-How much I take: 2000mcg
5. Resveratrol:
- Why I take it: This is my “vanity” supplement. While
the beneficial effects of Resveratrol are extensive, I admit that I take it
because it makes me “glow” and I like to think that it keeps me young. Resveratrol
is most known for its antioxidant properties and potential cardiovascular
benefits. It also activates the SirT1gene, this gene is believed to have a healthy
aging effect along with its protective effects against free radical damage. To
me, Resveratrol is truly a “from within” beauty product.
-When I take it: first thing in the morning with my
breakfast.
-How much I take: 200mg
6. Quercetin:
- Why I take it: Quercetin is the ultimate flavonoid,
I take it for overall enhanced health. It's
a natural antioxidant that supports the immune system and a healthy inflammatory
response. Studies suggest that quercetin might help kill cancer cells, control
blood sugar, and help prevent heart disease.
-When I take it: I take a single pill that includes Quercetin
and Resveratrol, I take the pill with my breakfast in the morning.
-How much I take: 200mg
7. Collagen:
- Why I take it: Collagen is a type of protein that
accounts for 30% of the body’s total protein. It is crucial for skin
elasticity, joint health, and tissue repair. Additionally, Collagen plays an important
role in supporting the strength and flexibility of bones, tendons, cartilage, and
muscles. Last but not least it makes hair and nails strong and decreases joint
pain.
-When I take it: I take collagen in powder form, and I
put it into the smoothie I drink daily as part of my breakfast.
-How much I take: 10g to 20g
While from time to time I rotate other supplements or mushrooms
into my daily routine, the 7 I have listed are my lifelong companions. With this
regimen, I have noticed significant improvements in my overall health and
well-being. From better sleep quality and elevated energy levels to enhanced
mood and stronger immune function. With that said, we are all bio-individuals and
everyone's health needs are unique. So, listen to your body as you embark on your
own supplement journey, my results may not be your results.
Disclaimer: I am not a healthcare professional, and the
information in this blog is based on personal experience. Please
consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice before starting any
new supplement regimen. Individual tolerances and possible interactions with
medications should also be considered.
Love to learn about your "Magnificent 7" Can you share the brand you are trusting?
ReplyDeleteThank you Larisa. I trust a brand called Design for Health
DeleteThey have a lot of accreditations and won several awards for the purity of their products. www.designsforhealth.com