From ACV to Ashwagandha: The Benefits Behind Popular Supplements

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Growing up I was one of those kids who took the Flinstones vitamins every day (I loved those things), however after going to college, I got away from supplements because they seemed like a luxury I couldn’t afford. Once I got out of college and got my first real job, life’s stresses started getting to me. That’s when I started looking into some supplements to help. It is recommended to always use whole foods as your main source of nutrients, but supplements can be great tools to help enhance your wellness routine. In this blog post I will be covering six popular supplements–their benefits, how they work, and which brands I recommend. 

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)

I’ve always had this in my pantry but never did I think something with that powerful taste and smell would actually be beneficial for your body. 

Key benefits: 

  • Supports healthy digestion and gut health

  • Can help regulate blood sugar levels

  • Can help with bloating and appetite reduction or sugar cravings

How to take it: You can put a small amount in a glass of water, take it as a capsule, or add it to salad dressings. I do not recommend taking this straight on it’s own not only because of the taste but it can damage tooth enamel. 

I recommend: Goli ACV gummies, or liquid ACV diluted in water

Links: Goli ACV Gummies

Magnesium

This one is kind of a hidden gem and most people are actually deficient in magnesium. 

Key benefits: 

  • Helps support muscle relaxation and recovery

  • Supports better sleep and stress management

  • Improves energy and nerve function

How to take it: You can take this in capsule form. I’ve also used a spray on sore joints and muscles. I’ve found this one is better to take in the evenings to help with sleep. 

I recommend: Magnesium Gummies

Ashwagandha

This one is a newer development for me but I think it has really helped my body relax and be more productive throughout the day. 

Key benefits: 

  • Reduce stress and cortisol levels

  • Improves focus 

  • Supports hormone balance and energy

How to take it: You can take this in powder, capsule, or gummy form. I take this one in the morning but you can also take this in the evening.

I recommend: Goli gummies, Futurebiotics Capsules

Links: Goli Ashwagandha Gummies, Futurebiotics Ashwagandha Capsules

Creatine

I thought this was going to make me super buff so I always avoided it. Turns out it has a few other benefits (none of which include making you super buff). 

Key benefits:

  • Boosts energy during workouts

  • Enhances muscle strength and recovery

  • Supports brain health and cognitive fuction

How to take it: Creatine is mainly in powder form. Take 3-5 grams per day. Most creatine is unflavored so you can add it to just about anything. 

I recommend: Orgain Creatine

Fish Oil (Omega-3s)

This is one that my grandmother never missed. May explain why she was still doing kickboxing into her 60s. She’s the one who really got me into taking this one. 

Key benefits:

  • Supports joint and heart health

  • Reduces inflammation

  • Boosts brain function and mood

How to take it: You can find fish oil in capsule or liquid form. Beware of the fishy aftertaste but I like to add the liquid into my greens so I can barely tell it’s there. 

I recommend: Sports Research Fish Oil Capsules

Greens Supplements

I started taking a greens supplement purely just for my gut health. Turns out there’s a few more benefits too. 

Key benefits: 

  • Supports gut health and immunity

  • Provides natural energy from phytonutrients

  • Helps fill nutritional gaps

How to take it: Usually comes in a powder but I’ve seen some capsules as well. Easy to mix with smoothies or water. Don’t think of this one as a replacement for vegetables, think of it more like a bonus!

I recommend: Zena Nutrition Organic Super Greens

Caution with Supplements

Not every supplement works for everyone and not all bodies react the same to all supplements. Check with a healthcare provider before starting multiple new supplements. It may be good to try one at a time to give your body time to adjust. Make sure when looking for supplements you try and find high quality brands with transparent labeling.

 

Supplements can sometimes be intimidating and there are so many options to choose from which can be overwhelming. Start small with one or two and go up from there. Consistency is key when it comes to taking supplements but over time you can really start to see the benefits like I have. If you try some of these supplements, I’d love to know what you think! Let me know via email thedriftlessblog@gmail.com or message me on Instagram @thedriftlessblog. And don’t forget to subscribe below!