Six Natural Supplements Your Body Craves in Winter
As we move into the cooler months and our bodies are subjected to more indoor living, stress, and less sunlight, it's important to keep our minds and bodies sharp. To help you do that, here are six natural supplements your body will love you for taking this winter. Trust us, your mind and body will thank you!
Vitamin D - The "sunshine vitamin" that helps regulate calcium and phosphorus in the body, essential for strong bones and teeth
Vitamin D often referred to as the "sunshine vitamin," is essential for regulating calcium and phosphorus, two vital nutrients that help create strong bones and teeth. As we enter the colder winter months, many of us notice a decrease in our vitamin D levels, especially if taking part in winter sports such as skiing or snowboarding. Not getting adequate vitamin D during these winter months can lead to depleted energy levels, increased fatigue, and even depression which motivates intake of vitamin D supplements from sources like cod liver oil or fish oil that help balance vitamin D intake during the winter or times outdoors are limited. While it can be difficult to get vitamin D from food sources year-round making vitamin D supplementation vital, it is essential to remember that monitoring your vitamin D levels throughout the year is key for overall mental health and well-being.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids - Good for the heart, skin, hair, and nails
Omega-3 fatty acids are natural compounds that are vital to overall health and well-being. They are essential nutrients beneficial to maintaining healthy hearts, skin, hair, and nails. Some natural sources of Omega 3s include nuts, seeds, algae, and marine oils like fish oil. During the winter months, it is also important to focus on adding more Omega 3s into your diet. The colder temperatures can take a toll on our bodies since Omega 3 levels generally decrease when exposed to cold weather; therefore natural sources can greatly help us replenish these necessary fatty acids in our systems!
Probiotics - Aids in digestion and gut health
This winter, probiotics may be the perfect gut health companion. Research shows that gut health plays a major role in overall wellness and that gut bacteria can be affected by seasonal changes. Probiotics can help to restore gut balance. These beneficial microscopic organisms are found naturally in fermented and cultured foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, and probiotic yogurt. They also exist in dietary supplements in the form of powders, capsules, and tablets. Add a daily boost of probiotics to your gut routine for improved digestion, which will aid in improving your overall well-being this winter season.
Iron - Prevents fatigue and supports a healthy immune system
Iron is a mineral that plays a vital role in our bodies, as it prevents fatigue and supports a healthy immune system. Unfortunately, iron deficiency is very common; nearly 10 million American adults are iron deficient, which leaves them feeling constantly tired and puts them at risk for an array of health issues. In addition to iron-rich foods such as beef, dark green leafy vegetables, and beans, iron supplements can be taken to supplement your diet if you're iron-deficient. Taking iron in this form can help with numerous functions in the body, allowing you to feel energized, alert and ready to take on the day.
Zinc - Helps the body heal and supports a healthy immune system
As the recovery process begins, zinc can be a great ally. This important mineral helps support our natural healing powers while also boosting our immune system. Eating a balanced diet that includes natural sources of zinc such as pumpkin seeds, oysters and fortified breakfast cereals is a great way to maintain optimal health. It is especially important to focus on getting enough zinc in winter as it helps to increase resistance to colds and flu. With just a little effort, we can ensure that our bodies get adequate amounts of this essential mineral, which promises to bring even more recovery benefits and lasting wellness.
Magnesium - Reduces anxiety and stress levels
Magnesium is an important mineral that can help reduce the amount of stress and anxiety we experience on a daily basis. When the holidays roll around, it's especially important to be aware of foods that are high in magnesium, as this can help us stay calm and collected. In addition to foods such as whole grains, nuts, and dark leafy greens, incorporating foods such as dark chocolate and avocados can also ensure magnesium intake. Not only does adding foods such as these to our diets help reduce stress levels during this season, but regular magnesium intake can have long-term health benefits that include improved mood balance and better sleep. Plus, eating foods high in magnesium will make us less likely to succumb to the unhealthy eating habits that come with holiday stress. Keep magnesium in mind this holiday season!
Wintertime can be tough on our bodies and immunity. Incorporating natural supplements into your diet, like vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, iron, zinc, and magnesium can help give your body the edge it needs to stay healthy all season long. Schedule a nutritional consultation with one of our RÖRE practitioners today to ensure you're getting the right mix of vitamins and minerals for optimal health this winter - and all year round.
