Truth moment. Before my battle with cancer, I would generally take only multivitamins to help boost my immune system. Ha, and even those multivitamins were the chewable kind. I wasn't really focused on the additional supplements and their health benefits until I wanted to start to make improvements in my self care. As I begin to put my health in the forefront and started to do my part, I begin to notice the changes internally. I began to notice my hair and nail strength, my increased energy, I wasn't getting sick often, and even my digestive and circulation improved. Now I am not a big fan of taking massive size pills. If you take supplements you may have guessed which one I am referring to-Fish Oil pills. They are massive, but I wouldn't let that prevent me from taking them. I find veggie capsules are the best form for me and I find alternate ways to consume large supplements into my body. My grandfather who's gone on to glory, would stick a pair of scissors or knife into the gel capsules and remove the liquid. Sometimes this could mean pouring it into a glass of OJ or in my smoothies or sometimes directly on the tongue. Everyone has their preferences, I know mine generally consist of ways that are less traumatizing.
How are you taking care if your body? Do you take supplements? If so, how often?
Below I share just a few of the many supplements out there. These however are supplements I take for my own needs.
Probiotics-Probiotics also known to be good bacteria has a main job which is to maintain a healthy balance in your body. The good bacteria helps keep you healthy by supporting your immune function and controlling inflammation. Some great benefits to taking probiotics can be that they help your body digest food, keep bad bacteria from getting out of control and making you sick, create vitamins, help support the cells that line your gut to prevent bad bacteria that you may have consumed (through food or drinks) from entering your blood, and breakdown and absorb medications.
Oil of Oregano-Oil of Oregano can be used internally as an antiseptic and antifungal for mild indigestion. It can also be used to heal oral infections, fights infections, strengthens immune systems, helps sinus congestion, improve respiratory health, can be a digest and menstrual aid, and an overall source of essential nutrients.
Elderberry- Elderberry is most commonly used to help prevent and ease cold and flu symptoms. The berries and flowers of elderberry contain antioxidants and vitamins that boost the immune system. Elderberry has been known to calm inflammation, lessen stress, and help protect the heart as well.
Multivitamin-Multivitamins read just as the name implies. It's a multi-vitamin, meaning you will gain nutrients from more than one element. If you don't take anything else, multi-vitamins are key. They offset other deficiencies. Find a high quality multi-vitamin! Mumti-vitamins are good for your heart and prevents heart disease, supports healthy aging, boost immune system, overall eye health, healthy hair and skin, and boost your energy and help you feel better overall!
Seamoss aka Irish Moss- The name too also implies that its within the sea. It’s a form of seaweed or algae. This edible sea plant is similar to that of a dark leafy green such as kelp. Seamoss is suggested to support thyroid health, supports immunity, improve gut health (fiber), supports weight loss, improves/maintains blood sugar levels and promotes better heart health.
Omega-3 Fish Oil- What I like to call the "horse pills". Omega -3's are nutrients you get from certain foods or supplements to help build and maintain the healthy body I know you have. Two of those fatty acids EPA and DHA are commonly references in certain fish. ALA is the third fatty acid that is usually found in plant sources such as nuts and seeds. Our bodies need these fatty acids to function in our daily living. The health benefits that come from Omega-3 are massive. If you prefer to consume Omega-3 by food instead of taking the supplement-you can aim to eat Mackerel, Salmon, Lake Trout, or Tuna to name a few. The food sources for ALA are usually in your Walnuts, Flaxseeds/oil , Chia seeds, Soybean oil, and Canola oil.
Turmeric- Turmeric's most commonly used compound, curcumin has benefits of improving heart health and prevention of Alzheimer's disease, cancer, and heart problems. To my knowledge, it can aid in slowing down the process of Alzheimer’s disease but is not a primary resource to prevent the overall disease. Turmeric is an antioxidant that has also proven to be helpful for those individuals suffering from Arthritis. I personally, consume Turmeric by way of supplement and also use Turmeric as a topical face mask. Natural antioxidants such as Turmeric and honey work well together. Just keep in mind however you choose to use it, the powder does stain. When wet, it turns a red color that can be hard to remove. Trust me, learned by experience.
Echinacea- The natural immune booster that derives from the coneflower plant! Echinacea has been shown to improve immune system levels, blood sugar, anxiety, inflammation, and skin health. Echinacea is a safe supplement that should be taken in short term use. When referencing preventing common cold or other infections-Echinacea and Elderberry are my go to's.
Lions Mane-A mushroom that supports brain health-who knew! This supplement I learned of after my surgery. When recommended, my first thought was I don't like mushrooms. However, I found a dietary supplement that works well for me. Lion's Mane was explained to support better mental functioning that would generally come with age. Lion's Mane was tested to see if it protects against Alzheimer's Disease and to decrease memory loss. This supplement may also speed recovery from nervous system injuries-help transmit signals that control almost every bodily function, protects against ulcers in the digestive tract, reduce heart disease, and chances of diabetes. I have found that this supplement in particular helps me with concentration and my alertness. My mind is sharper and there is also some wise decision making that goes along with it.
Blood Sugar Support- This supplement in particular helps the pancreas become healthier by addressing sugar imbalances and root causes of those issues. Diabetes is common amongst certain populations-obesity is one of them. If maintaining a stable blood sugar level- you can decrease the risk of getting Type 2 diabetes, improve mental functioning, suppress appetite, and even supports weight loss. Stable blood sugar levels should fall below 99mg/dL and below. If you are a diabetic or know of diabetics, that number will drastically change. Early detection and prevention is key. High blood sugar levels can lead to severe cases of hospitalizations or diabetic coma's-which is what we want to avoid. Be sure to check with your physician for your blood sugar levels and ask questions before beginning a new supplement regiment.
Glucosamine Chondroitin- GC should be taken with care. One of the most important glucosamine and chondroitin benefits is its use in arthritis treatment. Glucosamine Chondroitin is used to ease the pain and to get rid of the symptoms of arthritis by rebuilding cartilage in the body. Chondroitin, specially, helps in slowing down the progression of arthritis in human beings. Glucosamine chondroitin also aids in treating the inflammation caused due to arthritis.
Important to note: When taking supplements please ensure you research them and read the labels. As most doctors would not recommend dietary supplements because most don't advocate for natural remedies or herbal supplements for healing. Our ancestors relied on plants, fruits, vegetables, and other natural things for healing properties. What would happen if we chose to do the same?
Take care of you, put YOU first! Healthy living!
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