Maintaining a balanced diet is key to getting all of the essential vitamins needed to nourish us. However, even if someone tried their best to do so, there would still be gaps in their diet where they could get more nutrients. It’s difficult to get all of our nutrients from the food we eat, especially with dietary restrictions or a lack of access to healthy, unprocessed foods.
Multivitamins are a convenient way to get a wide variety of vitamins in one supplement, but relying on them will not give you enough meaningful nutrition. So, it’s best to get your vitamins in a variety of ways, rather than with just a multivitamin once daily. The most effective is through food, of course, but you should also take potent, naturally-sourced supplements.
Keep these 5 vitamin supplements in your medicine cabinet and take them daily to feel your best. You should also seek to get these vitamins from whole foods whenever possible.
1. Vitamin B Complex
B Vitamins are essential for helping you get the most energy out of the food you eat. They support a healthy metabolism and help to digest fats, proteins and carbohydrates. Eat more whole grains, eggs and beans to get more B vitamins out of your diet.
My Top Pick: Pure Synergy Super B-Complex
2. Omega-3s
These fatty acids have been proven to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and potentially lower blood pressure. EPA and DHA, the two most beneficial fatty acids, are found only in fish. On the other hand, ALA, a less powerful acid, can be found in walnuts, flaxseeds and chia seeds.
My Top Pick: Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Capsules
3. Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is actually an ancient herb and not really a vitamin, but it has become an essential part of my nutrition. This adaptogen is a staple in Ayurvedic healing practices known for helping your body manage stress and anxiety. Ashwagandha lowers levels of cortisol, which is a stress hormone that can cause us to hold onto fat in our abdomens.
My Top Pick: Gaia Ashwagandha Root Capsules
4. Calcium
Keep your blood flowing and your bones and teeth strong with this powerhouse nutrient. Calcium is needed for blood circulation, movement and overall bone health. When you don’t get enough calcium in your diet, your body will start to take it from your bones. So, it’s crucial to drink your milk, eat your spinach, and take a supplement to prevent future bone loss.
My Top Pick: Garden of Life Plant Calcium Tablets
5. Vitamin D
This vitamin holds power in maximizing the absorption of calcium, while also potentially reducing depression and increasing weight loss. There are few foods that contain sufficient amounts of Vitamin D, but luckily, our bodies synthesize it when we spend time in sunlight. Soak up that sun and radiate some healing energy throughout your body.
My Top Pick: Mary Ruth’s Vitamin D3 Gummies
All of these vitamin supplements are important for every person’s health, but it’s still important to take what you truly feel you need to. Talk with your doctor before taking anything new if you’re unsure of how it will affect you. Listen to your body and give it what it needs to thrive.