Exploring Supplement Choices

Supplements can tackle various health issues, and, honestly, the choices can be overwhelming. So, which ones do you actually need? We reached out to our editorial team to share their supplement routines. Here’s what they had to say.

Popular Supplements

There are a few supplements I rely on, and they come with my doctor’s backing:

• Vitamin D: This one’s a staple for me. I take it throughout the year, although I cut back a bit in the summer since I get enough from the sun. It really boosts my energy and lifts my mood.
• Fish oil: I use this for brain and mental health. Plus, my eye doctor mentioned it can help with dry eye, so that’s a nice bonus.
• Magnesium glycinate: I turn to this when sleep is elusive. It really helps me unwind before bed without that grogginess I sometimes get with melatonin. It’s also good for muscle recovery, so I use it if I’m feeling sore.

Supplement Gummies

Right now, I’m on a kick with three types of gummy supplements:

• Women’s multi-vitamin: I take this because, let’s be honest, I probably don’t get all the nutrients I need from my meals.
• Muscle recovery sleep gummies: These have melatonin, tart cherry extract, and vitamin D. I’m not entirely sure if they really help my muscles, but I’m convinced my sleep has improved lately.
• Stress management gummies: These contain GABA, L-theanine, and lemon balm. I can definitely notice a difference in my mood after taking them—these are fantastic!

Hair and Skin Supports

Here are the supplements I incorporate into my routine:

• Biotin: I started this to support my hair health after experiencing thinning for various reasons.
• Collagen: Easy to mix into coffee or smoothies, it’s a simple way to up my protein intake.
• B12: My B12 levels can dip, so I keep this on hand since lots of people have similar issues.

Iron for Energy

I take an iron supplement to maintain my ferritin levels, which tend to run low, especially since I’m a runner. If I skip it for a bit, I notice I feel more fatigued during my runs—I’ve been doing this for years now!

Digestive Help

Every morning, I mix psyllium husk into my water. This has been a game-changer for my IBS, keeping my digestion on track. Plus, it’s a good way to start my day with some hydration.

B-Complex and Vitamin D

I take a B-complex supplement daily, mainly because I used to struggle with frequent canker sores. Once I started boosting my B12, those issues vanished!

I also use vitamin D, particularly in winter when sunlight is scarce.

Finding What Works for You

Keep in mind that not everyone requires supplements. Your personal health needs and goals should guide your choices. Before introducing any new supplement, it’s wise to consult with your doctor to see if it suits you.

When looking to buy supplements, ensure they’re third-party tested. The FDA doesn’t regulate supplements in the same way it does medications.

A reputable company will have its products tested for safety, so look for seals from third-party organizations like NSF International or ConsumerLab on the packaging.