Most moms could use extra support in their lives for many purposes: childcare, homecare, and personal care, to name a few! From a nutritional standpoint, pregnancy and child delivery can certainly set up mom to need some extra support.
The following list from Denver's own Dr. Courtney Jackson, N.D. suggests five important supplements to consider for supporting energy, mood, and immune function. These supplements can reduce inflammation that may contribute to fatigue and pain. And, thinking along the lines of prevention, reducing overall inflammation is one of the most important ways moms can protect their hearts and brains for the decades to come. Because the supplement industry is not regulated in Colorado, consider contacting a naturopathic doctor, who is an expert in using natural medicine, to choose quality supplements that are right for you!
Top Five Supplements for Moms:
- Essential Fatty Acids: Known for their anti-inflammatory properties, essential fatty acids (EFAs) nourish the brain, skin, and heart. They can decrease joint pain and provide increased vibrancy to your skin. Fish oils are an excellent source of EFAs as well as flax seed oil and walnut oil. The goal is to reach 1 gram a day of EFAs which can be supplied by 3 grams of fish oil.
- Probiotics: The role of probiotics in supporting immune and digestive function cannot be overstated. Consider this supplement especially during times of high stress when you are more susceptible to viral or bacterial illnesses. A probiotic supplements should contain a hefty dose of 5-10 billion count of L. acidophilus as B. Bifidum per serving!
- B-Complex: The B vitamins work well together to support energy production, metabolism, and mood. Chronic stress can deplete B vitamins. Taking a B-50 complex provides all the B vitamins is a sufficient dose to address needed support.
- Vitamin D: Unless mom is spending 20-30 minutes a day outside in the sun exposing most of her body, she is likely to be deficient in this multi-purpose vitamin. Vitamin D supports optimal moods and has anti-cancer and anti-viral properties. A maintenance dose of Vitamin D is usually 2000-5000 IU/day though some moms with low levels may need prescription strength doses. Talk to a health care provider about getting your level tested.
- Magnesium: This important mineral can be depleted by chronic stress! Magnesium is intimately involved with healthy bone maintenance and optimal heart function. Moms who suffer from fatigue, constipation, high blood pressure, sugar and chocolate cravings, and painful periods may need to supplement with this mineral. Look to supplement 600-800 mg magnesium a day. Thankfully, dark chocolate is also a delicious food source of magnesium.
Dr. Courtney Jackson is a board-certified Naturopathic Doctor in Denver. She is considered an expert in using natural medicines like botanical medicine, homeopathy, whole foods, and nutritional supplements. She advises on a variety of conditions including fatigue, sleep disturbances, digestive disorders, thyroid dysfunction, and hormonal imbalances associated with the various phases of a woman’s life.
To learn more about the services offered at Summit Natural Health, visit the website at: www.summitnaturalhealth.com, or contact Summit Natural Health at (720) 335-5292 to schedule a free 15-minute consultation.
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