My Supplement Box: Pills and Powders

So we've been in quarantine for quite some time now (5 months officially?) and my days have officially been filled with Live IG workouts and baking until I can't even think about banana bread anymore. While I do my best to eat as healthy as possible during this time, it can still be difficult to remain on a consistent routine when every day looks different. Knowing that my first meeting of the day tomorrow isn't until a little bit later and I have time in the evening to get my workout in because I have no commute might result in a glass of wine tonight and sleeping in tomorrow morning. Repeat the second night, and third. Consistency creates habits, so when these type of nights become a trend it's easy for my body to begin to feel constantly inflamed.

If you struggle with the same problem, these are some supplements to help counter act the effect inflammation. I take these to relieve symptoms of allergic reactions either to weather changes (or constantly changing the thermostat in my apartment because I'm cold blooded every other day), certain foods I eat (though I have no dietary restrictions, let's be real I'm eating a little bit more unhealthily than I would if I weren't stuck inside of my apartment), or if I splurge on pizza and can’t get my rings on the next morning because of excess sodium. Trust me, it all happens more than you think.

Disclaimer: please keep in mind that these supplements are not a “cure” and I am not a doctor. I have simply used them to remain feeling healthy and balanced for my body’s everyday function. I’m going to tell you why these have been beneficial for me, strictly just for inspirational purposes. Do what works for you and be educated on your own body.

Probiotics- the power of a healthy gut is constantly buzzing right now. There are so many fermented foods and different products out there that you can consume to help aid in digestion and promote a healthy gut. I think taking a probiotic in either pill or powder form is one of the OG bacteria fighting methods you can do to help digestion and your overall health. Being committed to a probiotic will offer tremendous health benefits and optimal results in digestion. My recent obsession is a brand that I found at Target and offers a pre + probiotic in one, called RAE.

Four Sigmatics drinks are another method of promoting a healthy gut, which helps combat any inflammation. Their mushroom coffee and hot cocoa mixes are my personal favorites. All you do is add water and stir though I suggest adding your favorite milk and collagen for a frothy, tasty drink! Hit up Amazon for a portable frother and you’ll feel like the ultimate barista (only $6). Another plus is that they’re very handy and tremendously helpful when it comes to traveling. Some of the other healthy benefits other than aiding in digestion for all Four Sigmatic products include: Anticancer. Loaded with Antioxidants. Decreases Oxidative Stress. Boosts Liver Health. Aids Diabetic Health. Provides Focus without Jitters. 

BIOHM is another great brand adding multiple benefits to your healthy lifestyle. I take their Super Greens + Probiotics with water most mornings. The product itself is actually very enjoyable on its own, but I’ve also added it to smoothies before. It provides a probiotic kick with live active cultures and a dose of daily greens. It helps with sustained energy during the day and extra hydration. Use code Vibrantfood at checkout for 10% off of your online order!

Collagen is not only another easy digestive aid to promote a healthy gut, but is also a beauty supplement. It helps promote healthy skin, nails, hair, and joints. Further Foods and Vital Proteins are two amazing brands because of how clean the products are. Try adding it to coffee, a smoothie, or even a glass of water because it dissolves effortlessly. My favorite aspect of collagen aside from all of the wonderful health benefits is that it adds an extra boost of protein. Instead of adding a scoop of Whey or some other protein powder, try adding 2 scoops of collagen to smoothies, protein pancakes, baked goods, or oatmeal. A lot of brands now have flavored collagen that provides an extra indulgent taste. Use discount code thevibrantfoodie10 for 10% off of your first order at Further Food!

Magnesium is a great supplement to help you get better Z’s. It also helps with maintaining blood sugar levels, stress levels, keeping you regular (in the bathroom), and helping with better sleep. I don’t think we realize how vital sleep is for our health and how it helps us function properly, nourish our bodies, rebuild our minds, and allows us to kick ass in the gym. For traveling, I recommend bringing magnesium and probiotics as something to take in the morning and evening to remain feeling balanced.

It doesn’t have to be hard, stressful, expensive to keep up with your health. As a society we tend to get caught up in going straight to the nearest health store and spending a ton of money on the most popular supplements on the market. There are so many products that the marketing industry puts on the shelves and your body just does not need all of it—or any of it. I used to be the person who would take a supplement for everything— vitamin C, D, fish oil, iron, a multivitamin, etc. and it was all unnecessary. Unless you have a deficiency and get this information from your doctor who has proven it with extensive blood work, then stop stressing and spending loads of money on supplements that your body doesn’t need. You’ll throw it into over drive and it won’t know how to react. Remember, being balanced is about what your body needs rather than an excessive amount of something “good”. Remember that this is your health and you’re in charge of its journey.

XO Stay vibrant