So, I’ve been sharing vitamins, supplements, etc.. with you here and on social media and I want to put a perspective on why I’m taking all these vitamins and supplements but not multivitamins.
I didn’t start taking multivitamins or any vitamins/supplements until I was in my late 30s because health was not a high priority for me at the time And I would take them intermittently. At the same time, I focused more on eating healthier. Once I became pregnant with my twins I started to prenatal vitamins based on my blood test. After having the twins I started taking selective vitamins based on my blood test results.
Here’s a breakdown of the vitamins I’m currently taking.
IRON
Iron is an essential element for blood production. Two years ago I was diagnosed with anemia because of low red blood cell production. It was mostly due to perimenopause symptoms that I was going through. I’ve been on the iron supplement since then and according to my most recent blood test, my red blood cell count is in the normal range. I have not stopped taking this iron supplement because I want to maintain the red blood cell level since I’m still going through menopause with irregular bleeding.
CALCIUM
The body needs calcium to maintain strong bones and to carry out many important functions. Almost all calcium is stored in bones and teeth, where it supports their structure and hardness. Milk and dairy products are concentrated calcium sources. And if you drink milk to keep your bones strong, milk and dairy diet is the way to go. Except for me. I never grew up with milk and dairy products so I have A LOT to catch up. Ever since I was introduced to these combined calcium supplements I have not stopped taking them for bone health.
VITAMIN D
Vitamin D, along with calcium, helps build bones and keep bones strong and healthy. Yes, regular sun exposure is the most natural way to get enough vitamin D. But to maintain healthy blood levels we need to get that 10 – 30 minutes of sunlight, several times per week. Although we live in California where we get sunlight almost 365 days a year we don’t always go out to get sunlight for vitamin D.
VITAMIN C
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is necessary for the growth, development and repair of all body tissues. Taking a dietary supplement of vitamin C in addition to eating fruits and vegetables can help gain all the benefits. I love Kirkland’s Vitamin C because their product also contains a citrus complex of bioflavonoids, which may assist in the body’s absorption of Vitamin C, and rose hips, which are a natural source of Vitamin C.
ZINC
Zinc helps your immune system and metabolism function. Zinc is also important to wound healing and your sense of taste and smell. I take this coated zinc supplement because it is easier to swallow.
PROBIOTICS
Probiotics are made up of good bacteria that helps keep your body healthy and working well. This good bacteria helps you in many ways, including fighting off bad bacteria when you have too much of it, helping you feel better. Probiotics are part of a larger picture concerning bacteria and your body — your microbiome.
If you are planning to take multivitamins or certain vitamins in general make sure to talk to your doctor first. For me, I don’t need to take multivitamins just the above mentioned vitamins every night after dinner for a healthier self. I occasionally switch to different brands to test or for review purposes. Overall, a healthy diet is the best way to get all the nutrients you need but sometimes we just need extra help with these vitamins and supplements, especially as we age.
