Supplements are a huuuuge topic of conversation in the health and fitness industry! Just like anything else I don't think there is a one-size-fits-all regime for supplements or one supplement that EVERYONE should take. It totally depends on your needs and body.

Why Supplements?

From the most simple standpoint supplements are for people who don't get enough of something in their diet. Whether its an iron deficiency, Vitamin D deficiency or a way to pack on more calories and/or fuel your muscles post workout..like a protein shake!

They can also be used as a preventative measure to avoid getting sick and keep your immune system strong. I'm talking probiotics for gut health, cranberry pills for UTI prevention, liver support to help combat all the toxins we are constantly exposed to, and multivitamins for overall health when our diets aren't cutting. it.

What supplements do I take?

It wasn't until recently that I decided to be more consistent with my supplements. I have a tracker in my bullet journal now so I remember to take them.

As busy active women - it's sometimes hard to get all the essential nutrients and minerals we need for optimal energy (I'm blaming it on the holidays haha). So I've been supplementing with a multivitamin in the morning (after breakfast) as insurance! Swisse Women's Ultivite not only provides 50 different vitamins, there's also a mixture of 12 different herb extracts for mood and energy support and I've been noticing how much easier it is to get out of bed in the morning. It's the lil things like this that set the pace of the day am I right?

I also take a cranberry supplement with my multivitamin. Yup, I'm one of those girls who gets UTI's sooo easily :'( Anyone else?! In order to prevent UTI's from happening I also make sure to stay extra hydrated, use a gentle unscented wash in the shower, and change out of sweaty workout clothes asap. I've been taking Swisse Ultiboost High Strength Cranberry daily for several months now and now I'm happy to say I've been UTI free!

I usually get a lot of probiotics through my diet via fermented soybeans, kimchi, kombucha, etc., but if I'm lacking that day, I'll take a probiotic supplement. They are great for supporting good digestion, helping you absorb nutrients better and strengthening your immune system too.

As far as food supplements go I'm most consistent with my protein powders. I prefer plant based protein that provide at least 20 grams of protein per serving.

More recently, I've been taking magnesium at night in powder form mixed with water to wind down and help my muscles relax. I feel the calming effects almost immediately and before you know it I'm zzzz.

Okay, so there ya go!