Vitamins and minerals are crucial to our health, but that doesn’t mean everyone needs to take all the supplements we see in pharmacies! Only certain groups of people will need specific supplements, especially if they have nutritional deficiencies.
It may leave you wondering: As a woman, what vitamins do I really need? Here’s a short guide to the dietary supplements women should probably take.
What Vitamins Do Women Need?
Take note that these supplements are recommendations only and subject to approval by your healthcare provider. Do talk with your doctor about the supplements you plan to take and he can evaluate what you need based on your overall health.
Furthermore, you must make sure that you purchase supplements from reputable brands such as douglas laboratories from Supplement First! Legitimate supplement brands focus on your health and make sure they go through third-party testing or test their products in in-house laboratories for quality checks.
- Vitamin D
Vitamin D is vital in bone health and immune function. There is also new research suggesting that this vitamin can boost fertility! While the study is still limited and shows different results among other races, the results are promising.
Despite the differing opinions of vitamin D supplements for fertility, it’s still important to have enough of this vitamin for proper bone health. If you are heavily veiled, have dark skin, or don’t live in a sunny climate, then it’s best to take vitamin D supplements.
- Vitamin A
Vitamin A is needed to maintain proper eye and skin health, as well as good immune function. There has also been recent research showing that vitamin A supplements might cut the risk of melanoma. However, experts say that supplementation of this vitamin isn’t necessary, as long as you get it from beta-carotene-filled foods like spinach, broccoli, and carrots.
- B Vitamins
There are eight B vitamins in total, which are crucial for our body’s cell metabolism, energy production, and immunity. While we can get our B vitamins from a healthy diet, those with special needs or diets may be deficient in them.
Women who are trying to get pregnant can benefit from folic acid, as it can help with fertility and lessen the risk of birth defects.
You can find these types of supplements from reputable brands like douglas labs from online retailers, drugstores, or even supermarkets.
- Calcium
Just like vitamin D, calcium is important to maintain strong and healthy bones, nerves, and muscles. Furthermore, it helps maintain a healthy heart!
You can get enough calcium from your diet, though if you have a family history of osteoporosis, then talk with your doctor regarding taking calcium supplements.
While calcium supplements may be beneficial for those worried about bone health, there may be a few side effects and an increased risk of strokes, albeit a small one.
Wrapping It Up
It’s imperative to do your research and learn about the supplements you need. Keep these vitamins in mind and make sure that you also pair your supplementation with proper sleep, diet, and exercise.