The Supplements

A big part of my health journey is correcting the deficiencies I have.

Here's a list of what I'm taking and why:

Vitamin D3 Drops

Vitamin D aids in the development and maintenance of bones and teeth and plays an important      role in immune health.  Low levels of vitamin D are associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, allergies, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and some cancers. (And just a basic lack of energy!  Vitamin D also improves insulin sensitivity.  Almost all adults are at least a little vitamin D deficient, especially if you live up north, so start taking vitamin D if you aren't already!

Magnesium

Magnesium helps with protein synthesis, it is essential for muscle and nerve function, blood glucose (sugar) control, and blood pressure regulation.  It helps dilate your blood vessels which lowers blood pressure.  It helps those of us who have low quality sleep.  

N-Acetyl L-Cysteine and Alpha Lipoic Acid (NAC ALA)

NAC helps promote the excretion of mercury from the body, helps thin mucous, and increases insulin sensitivity.  ALA is a natural occurring amino acid (from flax, chia seeds, etc.) that improves blood sugar metabolism and helps with energy levels. 

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is huge! This is the one that I have the lowest level of any patient they've had in the clinic.  Vitamin B12 deficiencies can get downright scary : http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/vitamin-b12-deficiency-can-be-sneaky-harmful-201301105780Vitamin B12 is essential for building DNA and new red blood cells (which your body is always doing), regulating hormones, providing energy, and is essential for a healthy nervous system.  I'm not sure what may be causing my B12 shortage (most adults have a shortage, but mine is so extreme right now).  None of the normal reasons for having a B12 deficiency apply to me, except for one that I never thought might be a possibility: celiac disease.

Probiotic

Provides good gut bacteria, and helps support against occasional digestive upsets, especially if you are struggling with food allergies. 

Selenium

This one is the worst! Well, it tastes pretty awful.  But it is an antioxidant mineral (a yeast) that works with vitamin E to fight free radicals.  Not sure if I'm going to keep taking this one.  It is very hard not to gag.

ReadiSorb

This is a liquid called Glutathione that protects cells against free radicals that cause oxidation damage and removes toxins.  It also helps your body absorb the supplements you are taking.  And it is GROSS. But helpful.  But oh, so GROSS. 

Fulvic Liquid Minerals

Fulvic minerals help vitamins and minerals to be better absorbed into the cells of the body.  It is a plant based substance.  Just 5-10 drops a day is all you need.  It is pretty much tasteless- I just drop it in my smoothie, apple sauce, water, juice, etc.

Iodine

Iodine is essential for proper functioning of your thyroid, which regulates many hormones in your body.  My iodine levels are incredibly low.  Just 6 drops a day of iodine can make a huge difference.

Chromium

Chromium helps regulate blood sugar levels, as well as boost good cholesterol while lowering triglycerides in the blood. 

So... that's what I am taking right now.  I will probably be taking more supplements in the future when I am able to get my hands on chewable/liquid supplements.