5 Essential Supplements for Women 

Women have different nutritional needs than men, and sometimes it can be difficult to get everything we need from diet alone. That’s where supplements come in. Supplements can help you fill in the gaps and make sure you’re getting all the nutrients you need for optimal health.

Whether you need supplements for PMS or menopause, to boost your energy levels or support your immune system, there’s a supplement out there that can help. Here are five of the best supplements for women, based on need.

Multivitamins

Look – vitamins are important. They’re essential for pretty much every bodily function, from maintaining cell health to supporting your immune system. But even if you eat a well-rounded diet, it can be tough to get all the vitamins and minerals you need every day. That’s where a good multivitamin comes in.

A multivitamin can help fill in the gaps and ensure you’re getting everything you need. It contains a variety of vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, folic acid, and vitamin D. These nutrients perform a variety of functions in the body, and are essential for good health.

Omega-3s

You’ve probably heard a lot about omega-3 fatty acids and their health benefits. And for good reason – omega-3s are essential for maintaining cell health, reducing inflammation, and supporting brain and heart health.

Omega-3s are found in a variety of foods, including fish, nuts, and seeds. But if you don’t eat these foods regularly, you may not be getting enough omega-3s. You need about 500 mg per day, and the best way to get it is through a supplement.

Women who need lots of omega-3 include those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have chronic health conditions or are at risk for heart disease.

Calcium

Calcium is essential for bone health, and most women need more of it as they age. That’s because calcium helps reduce the risk of osteoporosis, a condition that causes bones to become weak and brittle.

The recommended daily intake of calcium is 1000 mg for women under 50, and 1200 mg for women over 50. This can be tough to get from diet alone. Therefore, many women need a calcium supplement to meet their needs.

The best calcium supplements are those that contain vitamin D. This vitamin helps the body absorb calcium and is essential for bone health.

Iron

Iron is an essential nutrient that helps your body make hemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen in your blood. Women require more iron than men because we lose iron every month during menstruation.

If you’re not getting enough iron, you may be at risk for iron deficiency anemia. This condition can cause fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.

The recommended daily intake of iron is 18 mg for women over 19. If you don’t eat meat or poultry, you may need a supplement to meet your needs.

Folate

Folate is a nutrient that’s important for cell health and pregnant women. It helps reduce the risk of birth defects and is found in leafy green vegetables, legumes, and fortified foods.

The recommended daily intake of folate is 400 micrograms. Getting this from your daily diet can be tough, so many women need a supplement.

Folate supplements contain a synthetic form of the nutrient, which is more easily absorbed by the body. This swift absorption is important for pregnant women or trying to conceive.

Remember, always consult with your doctor before taking any supplements. They can help you determine the right ones for you based on your health needs.

Photo by Diana Polekhina on Unsplash