Supplements… Yes or No????

I have been asked to write this post and I cant stress enough this is only my opinion and I respect other professional advice too. I also think its a lot more complex and very specific to each person. When I work with my nutrition clients we address this in a lot more detail.

I personally only take supplements if the Doctor says I am low in certain nutrients. I try my very best to get my nutrients from my food.. real food! However, I have taken in the past the following supplements and the reasons why.

  • Multivitamin. Purely as a back up to supplement my fruit and veg intake. I am not always good at eating enough fruit so occasionally I do add a multivitamin .
  • Iron Tablet. As I have moved into the Peri menopause stage I do find my iron levels drop . I have always been border line anaemic so this is something I do need to keep an eye on. Anaemia is quite common amongst endurance athletes. Iron helps the body red blood cells to carry oxygen from the lungs to the other cells in the body.
  • An Omega 3 tablet. I know I don’t eat enough fatty oily fish, so this is a supplement I add in from time to time. This helps reduce inflammation and supports a healthy heart.
  • Vitamin D. I personally use a spray. This is quite difficult to get from food so I do use a spray to supplement my intake. It helps the immune system and after my serious illnesses in the past, this is something I am conscious of. It also works on improving cell growth and reduces inflammation.
  • Magnesium. Again, I use a spray. This can be quite low in our diet especially in women so I do find this really helps. Magnesium regulates muscle function throughout the body and can help blood pressure and the production of cholesterol. Good foods that have magnesium are : Nuts and seeds, chickpeas, kidney beans, broccoli, brussel sprouts etc.

I cant stress enough, I am NOT a Doctor. If you are considering taking supplements I would suggest you speak to your GP and ask for some tests and seek medical advice. Having had 2 strokes, graves disease and on meds for life, plus being a competitor for most of my life, I know my body inside out. These work for me. at this present time,

This might change in the future. But, I would always consult my GP. I hope this helps. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me directly.