With the new year here and our motivation for a healthier 2017 going strong, it’s the the perfect time to discuss taking supplements, and their role in helping take your health to the next level this year.

Is it worthwhile to take supplements in the first place? Some mainstream news sources will say it isn’t. However, at the end of the day, when you look at the cold hard science, we can’t deny the fact that certain vitamins offer important benefits that we can’t afford to overlook- especially if our diet is lacking. It all just depends on what you’re taking, the quality of the product, and the dose.

As a nutritionist, I will always recommend getting your nutrients through quality, wholesome food first. Food is always the best starting place, and it can make a HUGE difference in energy levels and how you feel day to day. If you’re wondering where to start- start with food.

But if you are looking to add a little boost to your diet, I’ve put together a list of my top recommended supplements for supporting and promoting optimal health. These are a great place to begin.

Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria and yeasts that reside in our gut. They are helpful for regulating digestion and supporting our immune system, as well as our mood. These friendly bacteria are easily depleted when our diet contains too much processed food, coffee, alcohol, or sugar. High-stress levels can deplete friendly bacteria levels as well.  As good health begins in the gut, we can all benefit in supporting out gut health with probiotics.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D or the “sunshine vitamin” is a crucial nutrient for supporting our immune system, our mood, and also helping to protect us from cancer. For those living in the northern hemisphere, it becomes very difficult to get enough of this vitamin during the winter months making extremely worthwhile to supplement.  Opt for a liquid or gel form for best absorption.

Omega 3

Omega 3 fats that are very anti-inflammatory and amazing for brain, heart and eye health. They are great for improving the texture of our skin, nails and hair as well. You can find omega 3’s in liquid or capsule form, sourced from either fish or seeds and algae.

B-Complex

A B-Complex contains all the B vitamins in the correct ratios. These are vitamins that are used up very quickly when we are under stress. They are an important part of our metabolism, energy, and our nervous system- making them great to supplement if you have been feeling a little burnt-out. For increased bioavailability and absorption, opt for a quality, professional line product like this one.

I’ve also put together a list of a few hot and trendy supplements right now.  These have been increasing in popularity over the last few years and are what I predict will take off even more in 2017.

Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is becoming increasingly popular, especially since it has made its way into many popular skin care products. Activated charcoal is made from natural sources like coconut shells; it is used to bind toxins and chemicals to its surface and flush them out of the body so that they are not absorbed. When taken orally, it is great to take as a treatment for food poisoning, but also to help alleviate gas and bloating, and preventing hangovers. When applied topically, charcoal is great for detoxing the skin and helping to whiten teeth.

Medicinal Mushrooms

Medicinal mushrooms are being used more and more often as an alternative, natural treatment for many cancers. Studies have shown impressive benefits certain medicinal mushrooms can have in supporting a strong and healthy immune system.  Other benefits include reducing inflammation, helping the body better adapt to stress, and offering many anti-viral and anti-microbial properties. Popular medicinal mushrooms include Chaga, Reishi, Turkey Tail and Lion’s Mane.

Sea Buckthorn

Sea buckthorn is a tart orange berry bursting with omega 3,6,9, and uniquely- the very rare omega 7. Sea buckthorn is loaded with antioxidants and phytonutrients and is a beautifying berry, to say the least.  It’s amazing for the skin- especially for rashes, acne, rosacea, and psoriasis, for improving mental clarity, healthy cholesterol levels, anti-aging and more. It can be used topically as an oil, or orally in teas, capsules and elixirs.

Collagen Protein

Collagen protein is an amino acid and an essential building block of our tissues; it helps hold us together. Bone broth is loaded with collagen, but supplementing with it is a great and easy way to boost your intake. It is very easily digested and is especially supportive and nourishing to our digestive tract- great for leaky gut.  It also offers benefits for our metabolism, supporting healthy and pain-free joints, as well as maintaining and improving the elasticity and tone of our skin.