For those of us that don’t meticulously track all the nutrients contained in our daily diets, it’s likely that we lack some of the essential vitamins for optimal health. To take a step towards improving my overall health, I decided to supplement my daily food intake with some vitamins in order to deliver the missing nutrients my body needs to run on all cylinders. If you’re anything like me, the simple idea of going to the store and wading through the myriad of potential vitamins that might be right for you is an overwhelming task to say the least. After doing a bit of reading and research, I found there are 5 vitamins and supplements that are ideal for maintaining optimal women’s health. I have been taking this simple regimen for the past few weeks, and in addition to feeling the assurance of knowing that I am now delivering all the essential vitamins and nutrients that my body needs to thrive, I am also welcoming in some beneficial effects that I have taken note of on a day to day basis.

Although logic tells me to try to maintain a clean diet, often times I just can’t fight what must be my genetic propensity to be magnetized toward fatty foods and desserts. Since sticking to this regimen of vitamins and supplements, one of the major beneficial effects I notice is a decrease in my cravings for these rich, fatty foods. Maybe not surprisingly, this has likely triggered an improvement in my digestion as well as noticeably clearer skin. These synergistic effects didn’t just manifest at the physical surface level, though. My mood and energy levels have definitely improved, I am sleeping more soundly, and my immunity levels are holding strong through the sniffly, sneezy cold season. So, let’s get into the 5 essential vitamins and supplements that are rounding out my daily nutrition!

1. Multivitamin

What I’ve been taking: Sisu Supreme Multivitamin with Iron (also available without iron if your health needs require a reduction in iron).

In general, taking a multivitamin helps the body metabolize carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. In addition to these all-around benefits, I love this multivitamin because it includes a high dose of B vitamins, Ester-C, Vitamin K, Lutein, and antioxidant bioflavonoids which aid in daily stress, bone health, and eye health. Personally, I find that this versatile multivitamin really assists in curbing my sugar cravings, as well as reducing pms symptoms.

Other Forms: Fish, Eggs, Lean Meats, Whole Grains

2. Magnesium

What I’ve been taking: Sisu Calcium & Magnesium 2:1

Although magnesium might not garner as much attention or publicity as other more well-known vitamins or supplements, many troubling issues (including headaches and migraines) may be caused by insufficient magnesium levels. As someone who is constantly taxing my body and trying to squeeze out every last ounce of productivity, I have made sure to integrate magnesium into my daily regimen to reduce sore muscles and cramps, which may all be a result of low magnesium. A bonus? Taking it at night before bed helps promote a more restful sleep!

Other Forms: Avocados, Dark Chocolate, Bananas, Epsom Salt Bath

3. Omega-3

What I’ve been taking: Sisu Full Spectrum Omega

At this point, I’m sure everyone has heard the term “omega 3” from a friend, coworker, or in the media. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for healthy skin, joints, and heart - three parts of the body that are undeniably critical for looking, feeling, and functioning at our absolute best. Omega-3 supplementation has been proven to reduce the risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol. And although you have many choices of where to purchase your personal omega-3 source, I find some serious peace of mind knowing that Sisu’s Full Spectrum Omega is from sustainably caught wild salmon, free from environmental contaminants like heavy metals, PCBs, and dioxins - ensuring that I’m getting all the major benefits without any unwanted and unforeseen toxins.

Other Forms: Fatty Fishes, Walnuts, Flax Seeds

4. Probiotics

What I’ve been taking: Sisu Integris 30

Some say our gut is the second brain, and taking probiotics helps our gut health. We have all been trained to tone and condition our muscles, but our gut plays the critical, yet often overlooked role of digesting and absorbing nutrients before they can be integrated into those working muscles. When our digestive tract is healthy, it’s able to eliminate harmful toxins, wastes, and bad bacteria, thus preventing diseases, boosting mood, and promoting overall health.

Other Forms: Kimchi, Sauerkraut, Miso, Kefir, Yogurt

5. Vitamin C

What I’ve been taking: Sisu Ester-C

Here’s one we’ve all heard of for boosting our immunity: Vitamin C! Personally, I take Vitamin C to not only help boost my immune system, but also aid in iron absorption and promote formation of collagen. Why did I choose Sisu? Sisu Ester-C is a patented form of Vitamin C buffered with calcium, which is proven to last up to 24 hours in the body, providing extended delivery of this critical vitamin.

Other Forms: Fruits and Vegetables

Bonus supplement

I also love taking Sisu Skin Hair and Nails to deliver added strength to these critical structures, which are often battered by busy hands, everyday wear and tear, and the harsh elements of mother nature.