Ever since my mid-twenties, my hormones, and the stress of life in general, have been plotting against me. As a result, I’ve struggled with a range of health issues in recent years. Making small lifestyle tweaks, like incorporating supplements, really can make a difference. Mood swings, bacterial infections and the ‘common’ cold don’t have to be as common and severe with the right vitamins and supplements– I promise. Read on for some of my tried and true supplements for maintaining a happy and healthy lifestyle.
Vitamin C
TMI alert! In my early twenties, I went through a period of several months of frequent bacterial bladder infections, and my doctor recommended making some lifestyle changes. One of them was to begin taking vitamin C every day to strengthen my immune system, and let’s just say that incorporating this supplement into my diet was life-changing. In addition to putting an end to my bladder issues, I rarely catch the common cold, and I’ve been taking vitamin C for years now. What I love is that this supplement comes in many forms. If you hate swallowing big pills like me, you should opt for the gummies. You can find them at any supermarket or grocery store. My favorites are the Trader Joe’s Orange Gummy C and the HUM Nutrition Glow Sweet Glow Vegan Gummies. The latter also contains vitamin E and hyaluronic acid, which both aid in skin hydration. I thought it was all hype, until I tried these and they gave my skin a natural glow.
Lactobacillus Probiotic
Another one of the supplements recommended by my doctor during my ‘dark years’ of bladder infections was the Culturelle Health & Wellness Probiotic. This has been my go-to, to prevent bladder infections and bloating. The active ingredient lactobacillus rhamnosus works to keep the balance of healthy bacteria in your digestive tract, preventing the overgrowth of bad bacteria which can cause infections. Since taking these daily, my digestion and overall health has improved.
Milk Thistle
In what seems to be my never-ending fight against acne, I did some research and discovered milk thistle. My esthetician hipped me on the importance of maintaining a healthy liver to achieve clear skin. Everyone who knows me knows how much I love wine, which, like any alcoholic drink, isn’t great for your liver or skin. So, I decided to start taking milk thistle, which helps protect the liver. It has also been found to be anti-inflammatory. I’ve only been taking milk thistle for about a month, and I have noticed that my acne has become less painful and red, but I haven’t been taking it long enough to see a reduction in my breakouts. So far, it’s a keeper.
Vitamin D3
Another newcomer for me is the HUM Nutrition Here Comes The Sun Vitaman D3 supplement. I’ve been taking these for about three weeks now. I get plenty of sun living in Los Angeles, but a little extra vitamin D can’t hurt, especially because I don’t get enough in my diet. Vitamin D3 helps to support the immune system, healthy skin, and bones. It has also been known to reduce depression by regulating mood.
Evening Primrose Oil (EPO)
Last, but not least, evening primrose oil is an amazing supplement to take. This isn’t the first time I’ve raved about EPO, It’s been an all-around savior for my pre-period mood swings and hormonal acne. Read more about it in my post, My Lists: 5 Lifestyle Products For a Good Vibe Summer.
Denim & Lipstick 