Vitamin Power

on June 9, 2011
in All Posts

Whoa! I LOVED reading your comments on the Necessary? Part IV post.  Awesome to hear so many different perspectives on a very complicated issues.

 

First of all, I really want to reinforce that I do not think birth control pills are evil.  As a feminist, I love BC and all the freedoms it has given women around the world.  The social ramifications of BC really cannot be underestimated.  And for many people, BC is the best choice.  It certainly was for me for many, many years!  But as an individual, I have my own concerns about being on hormonal birth control (there are many non-hormonal options, like the copper IUD or the diaphragm, as other readers pointed out).

 

So, my current game plan is to make some changes in my lifestyle and wait two months, and then either get another pap smear or go for the biopsy.  We’ll see.

 

One change I started today was more folic acid!  There’s evidence that folic acid and B Vitamins reduces inflammation in your body (one cause of abnormal pap smears).  I already take Max Stress B supplement every day, which contains folic acid, so I’m just upping the dosage a bit (disclosure: the link is for our clinic’s website store).

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MaxStressB-Facts

Added bonus: I feel REALLY awake now due to the extra B Vitamins (the stuff in 5-hour Energy).  B Vitamins are a special concern to vegetarians because it’s not highly concentrated in any plant food (it is, however, in some dairy and eggs).

 

I also need to look into an Omega-3 supplement, as I probably don’t get enough of this essential fatty acid in my diet.  I’m vegetarian (so no fish) and I don’t like walnuts, so two major sources of Omega-3s are out.  Any suggestions beyond flax?

 

Here’s breakfast!

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Greek yogurt, bowl of cereal, and blackberries.  Simple and fast.  We were running majorly late today!

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Do you take any supplements?  I also take a female hormonal support natural supplement, a Vitamin D supplement, a circulation natural supplement, and the occasional Chinese herbs for acute ailments.  If the Husband didn’t literally hand me my vitamins, however, I might never take them!

{ 123 comments }

 

  • Morgan @ Endorphaholic June 9, 2011, 10:08 am

    I’ve used hemp seed oil in the past for Omega-3’s. They have the ideal Omega 6 to Omega 3 ratio.

    But, I definitely wouldn’t recommend hemp protein powder, it’s got a funky aftertaste! You can’t taste the oil in a smoothie, though.

    • Katherina @ Zephyr Runs June 9, 2011, 11:53 am

      That’s how I take my hemp protein powder, it’s always in a smoothie and pretty tasteless!

  • LindseyAnn June 9, 2011, 10:08 am

    Getting caught up on some recent posts–good for you for being your own advocate for your health!

    I just take a general women’s multivitamin and a glucosamine supplement. I’m horrible about remembering them, though. 🙁

  • Kris June 9, 2011, 10:10 am

    I feel bad that I’m not better about taking supplements. I try to take Vitamin E (for specific issue, ordered by dr.) and calcium since I have ostopenia. I used to take multis, but found out they were causing me massive hair loss (so strange because I’ve NEVER heard of that happening). I need to add fish oil back in too.

    • Baking 'n' Books June 9, 2011, 2:21 pm

      I feel bad too! I know it could probably (would) make a big difference. My energy and moods are so poor, etc., cravings…and a lot of it I know is related to deficiencies in essential vit’s/minerals…I need to like line them up on my counter or something! I guess just starting with a Multi is a good step.

  • Jess June 9, 2011, 10:12 am

    The only vitamin I take is my prenatal. It’s the first time in my life I’ve been on top of taking a vitamin every day. I suppose growing a baby is good motivation. 🙂 I’m planning on continuing to take it as long as I’m breastfeeding once she’s born next month.

  • Karen @ Run Shop Travel June 9, 2011, 10:12 am

    Chia seeds have Omega-3’s!

  • Mandy the Mood Eater June 9, 2011, 10:15 am

    I really enjoyed your last post and the comments too! Wonderful!

    I take a calcium supplement, a multivitamin, glucosamine, fish oil (for heart and mood health), and plain ol’ B12 (your Max Stress looks much more interesting!!), and I’m thinking about adding flax to my diet.

  • Leah @ L4L June 9, 2011, 10:15 am

    I take Vitamin D (living in WA, it is a MUST!) and Glucosamine because my knees get cranky running and it seems to help with joints immensely.

  • Mellissa June 9, 2011, 10:16 am

    I take a multi, calcium, B Supplement, D, and Fish Oil

  • Errign June 9, 2011, 10:16 am

    Chia seeds – even though I can only picture Chia Pets while eating them! 🙂

  • Erynn June 9, 2011, 10:16 am

    Hi, regular reader but not a commenter!
    Avocados are supposed to have omega 3 and 6! They can be eaten in quite a few different ways, and they are delish!! Re: birth control, I do think it is evil in 90% of the cases. A lot of girls start taking it so they dont get pregnant (great) but also because their boyfriend or husband dosent like to wear a condom- it is uncomfortable, they feel less, and whatnot. However, I think that the side effects of the pill in the long run from my own research are far worse. Plus, it may make us moody, bloated, etc-ooh what a turn on! (not!) Condoms don’t have any negative effects for the man, they are extremely effective when used correctly, prevent STD’s, and also are available in a lot of varities and sizes to help minimize discomfort and increase sensitivy! I mean to me, the choice is obvious. I am married, and have been with my husband for 7 years, and we only use condoms! It hasn’t been that difficult, and we’ve found some that minimize the discomforts for him. Go condoms go!

    • Courtney June 9, 2011, 10:24 am

      I am on the same boat as you with BC– so happy to finally be BC free for 2 years now 🙂

    • Jen June 9, 2011, 1:25 pm

      Agreed, Erynn! Go condoms, go! After being on the pill for 15 years, I finally went off it 3 years ago. I was constantly having spotting/breakthrough bleeding so I guess my body was fed up with being on the pill. Hubby and I have used condoms ever since (and we use them every time – we don’t want kids ever and I’m not taking any chances!) and it’s been fine…there are so many kinds to choose from these days that the old whines of “uncomfortable, desensitizing, etc” just don’t apply any more!

  • Sarena (The Non Dairy Queen) June 9, 2011, 10:17 am

    I have to hand my husband the vitamins too. I fell super low on my Bs and have since really focused on them and upped them in many ways. Since I can’t have dairy and I don’t eat meat, this is a little more work, but well worth it for my health. Love these posts Caitlin! I hope you’re feeling better today!

  • Ellie@fitforthesoul June 9, 2011, 10:17 am

    Lately I’ve been taking multivitamins for the first time consistently, and it’s really been helping me to stay energized and awake through the day. It’s awesome!

  • Julie @ Shining From Within June 9, 2011, 10:19 am

    I take Centrum (multivitamin) and Calcium. I think if you eat a varied diet, there’s really not too much of a need to pump yourself with vitamins. However, I do like to have my bases covered. I’d say stick with chia seeds, too!

  • Erica June 9, 2011, 10:20 am

    I take a calcium supplement, flax seed oil (instead of fish oil for omega 3’s), a women’s multivitamin, acidophillus (probiotic) and a folic acid. When I write it all out it seems like a lot! I just started the flax seed oil and probiotic about a month ago b/c I recently went about 90% vegetarian and wanted to make sure I was getting enough omega 3’s (like you I don’t like nuts very much) and wanted some help with digestion/irregularity.

    What women’s hormone are you taking? Please be careful with those – I’m a toxicologist and some of them (like black cohosh) have been linked to increasing risk for breast cancer in mice.

    • Caitlin June 9, 2011, 10:26 am

      Oh, I wrote that wrong. It’s not a hormone, it’s just a combination of natural herbs that support normal hormone function. No more fake hormones, pleaseeeee!

      • Erica June 9, 2011, 10:37 am

        Haha, phew! 🙂

        • Shayla June 10, 2011, 8:29 pm

          Caitlin – What do the natural herbs that support normal hormone function help regulate? I went off my birth control pills in March b/c we want to start trying this summer and I haven’t yet gotten a period…wondering if those herbs would help regulate my hormones or if your hubby knows of something I could take? Thanks! 🙂

        • Caitlin June 10, 2011, 10:02 pm

          Hey Shayla:

          This kind of supplement is definitely not the kind that anyone can take without being probably intaked by a physician.

          You can email him at kkboyle@holisticcharlotte.com and ask! He does e-consults if you want to talk to him about some alternatives to get your period started 🙂

  • Holly @ The Runny Egg June 9, 2011, 10:20 am

    I used to be a supplement queen — I’d take anything and everything and then I just stopped. I want to start taking a multivitamin, omega supplement, etc but I want to do some more research first before deciding on what to get.

  • Courtney June 9, 2011, 10:21 am

    I came off of BC two years ago. I was on them for MANY years due to ovarian cyst. I did a hair anaylsis and wanted to try to manage them via lifestyle and supps. Now 2 years later I am feeling SO much better! I now take Evening Primrose Oil, Copper, Source of Life liquid vitamin/min supp, and fish oil tablets!

  • Faith @ lovelyascharged June 9, 2011, 10:22 am

    Since I don’t drink real milk and I very rarely eat real dairy, I take a calcium supplement along with my multivitamin. I also was given a bottle of chromium picolate (supposed to help regulate blood sugar), but I havent seen a major effect from it so I probably will not continue to take it after the bottle runs out.

  • Laura @ Backstage Pass to Health & Happiness June 9, 2011, 10:25 am

    I could stand to re-vamp my vitamin routine, too… right now I take gummy vitamins for adults. Yep.
    I also take extra Zinc when I’m feeling tired / on the verge of getting sick, Vitamin E to help with a skin condition – keratosis pilaris, and I think that’s about it.
    Think that Chia Seeds are supposed to be a good source of Omega-3’s?

  • Leah June 9, 2011, 10:25 am

    Just a quick note on birth control – I actually had a stroke from birth control when I was 24! I had a TON of testing done and doctors ruled out ANY blood/clotting disorders, all of the tests came back totally normal – the only thing they think could have caused it was the birth control. I was 24, exercised daily, didn’t smoke, drink occasionally…picture of health – it was really very bizarre!

    They tried to get me to do the IUD but I was not about to put ANYTHING in my body after that ever again!!! We went with natural family planning using this little device called the Lady-Comp! (highly recommend doing some research on it!!) I am not pregnant with our (very planned) first child after 2.5 years of natural methods of birth control – so, there are lots of natural methods out there that work! 🙂

    • Caitlin June 9, 2011, 10:26 am

      I have the Lady Comp, too! Glad you like it.

      A STROKE? SOOOO scary. I am glad you are okay now!

    • Laura @ Backstage Pass to Health & Happiness June 9, 2011, 10:27 am

      That’s so scary! Did the stroke leave any permanent damage?

      • Leah June 9, 2011, 10:30 am

        Nope! Thankfully! It actually happened 3 days before my wedding…talk about a crazy way to go into that weekend!

    • Kris June 9, 2011, 2:56 pm

      My college health service had seen a number of students with blood clots and one w/ stroke from being on the pill, so since I had a history of migraine, they would not give it to me. After I graduated I went on it, and after six months, was taken off since I developed high blood pressure on it. Pretty scarey stuff.

  • Caitlin @ TPL June 9, 2011, 10:26 am

    Dark green have ALA’s, spinach, kale, mesclun and soybean oil but I’m not sure if they make a supplement of that! Good luck!

  • Trisha June 9, 2011, 10:30 am

    I sprinkle hemp hearts on my oatmeal and in smoothies for omega 3’s. They are also loaded with other proteins and vitamins. They are great! http://www.healing-source.com/about_HempHearts_b.htm

  • Catherine June 9, 2011, 10:31 am

    Omega 3’s are in flax, chia and hemp seeds. In all the learning I have done with the Institute of Integrative Nutrition program the repeated message is that omega-3s are vital to health. There are too many health benefits to neglect them in your diet. So even though I am a vegetarian and don’t eat fish, I do take a fish oil supplement. Not ideal but I think the health benfit outways the negatives. For a while I took oil from green mussels that you can buy on line. They are raised responsibly, no heavy metals and are more potent than regular fish oil. I felt better about taking those than regular fish oil (take less, less impact, less animals) but they are super expensive. Due to cost and effort in purchasing I decided to go back to regular ole fish oil.

  • Keelie (SweatEqualsSuccess) June 9, 2011, 10:34 am

    I take Omega-3, Calcium, D and Glutamine (if I’m training heavy).

  • Cindy June 9, 2011, 10:37 am

    I take vitamin D, magnesium (when I remember) and B vitamins. I’d love to try that vitamin B you have Caitlin! Does the store ship internationally?

    • Caitlin June 9, 2011, 10:41 am

      Yes we do!

  • Emily @ Comfortable Home Life June 9, 2011, 10:44 am

    I don’t take any sort of vitamins– but I should! I’m in the same boat you are nutritionally, vegetarian, no fish. As for BC, I was on it for a few years and never had any serious problems (I’m finding out I’m in the minority on that!) minus a 5 or so pound weight gain. Good for you for making health related decisions based on what’s best for you and your family, not based on what a doc wants to scare you into doing!

  • Leanne (Bride to Mrs,) June 9, 2011, 10:45 am

    I take vitamin D, omega 3, calcium/magnesium & a multivitamin. 🙂 I sometimes forget to take them though!

  • Madelin June 9, 2011, 10:46 am

    Hi Caitlin, I have read about an increase in breast cancer risk associated with folic acid supplements. It got a lot of press in Australia. Found this link http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/04/100407123342.htm
    Might be worth looking into?

  • Michaela June 9, 2011, 10:47 am

    Chia seeds! I sprinkle them on my oatmeal.

  • Liz June 9, 2011, 10:48 am

    Chai seeds have omega 3!
    http://www.mychiaseeds.com/Articles/Top10ChiaBenefits.html

  • Stepf June 9, 2011, 10:49 am

    Chia!!!!

  • DaniEatsVeggies June 9, 2011, 10:52 am

    I take a B12 supplement and also biotin. Last year, when I went for my yearly check up, my vegetarian doc thought I most likely was b12 deficient and when the tests came back, I was!

  • Samantha @ Mama Notes June 9, 2011, 10:53 am

    I have some flax oil that I put in my smoothies. That’s a great way to sneak it in! I believe the serving size is 2 tablespoons, so I just add it to my smoothies and tada! – just like spinach- added nutrients I can’t even taste! 🙂

  • Ashley O. @ The Vegetable Life June 9, 2011, 10:57 am

    As a vegetarian I take a women’s daily multi-vitamin (without iron because it makes me vom!), a calcium supplement that also is a vitamin D supplment, and a B12 supplement!

  • Sara @ OurDogBuffy June 9, 2011, 11:00 am

    I am interested in an Omega 3 supplement also–but I am not sure if it is necessary? I take a multivitamin and 2 Vitamin E soft gels because I have fibrous cysts in my breast tissue.

  • emily June 9, 2011, 11:01 am

    Right now I take a multi-vitamin and a calcium chew (when I remember!) but I want to add a prenatal vitamin soon too because I know how important nutrient intake is during the first 6 weeks of pregnancy (when you might not even realize yet that you’re preggers!).

  • Kim June 9, 2011, 11:01 am

    I take a calcium and Vit D supplement, which also has Vit K added to it, though I can’t imagine that I would be low on that with all the dark leafy greens I eat. I also try to add flax or chia to oats or smoothies every day for omega 3’s.

    • Kim June 9, 2011, 11:02 am

      I should add that I didn’t start taking the calcium supplement until I went vegan.

  • Jacqueline June 9, 2011, 11:02 am

    Chia and hemp seeds 🙂

  • Stephanie June 9, 2011, 11:03 am

    I just found your blog and I am big big fan of operational beautiful. I do that all the time (and never even read your book). I have beautiful colored pictures all over my dressing area with positive self talk. I also keep special ones hidden in jean pockets for those days where you are a bit down on yourself. I hate fat talk. The “i feel fat” is crazy – fat is not a feeling!!! I love your concept 🙂 🙂

  • Tracey @ I'm Not Superhuman June 9, 2011, 11:05 am

    I take a lot of supplements. Whether they work or not, who knows.

    That Max Stress B looks, um, dark. Does it taste good?

  • Ash @ Good Taste Healthy Me June 9, 2011, 11:08 am

    I only take a multi-vitamin. I should be taking calcium but never remember to…. :-/

  • Marissa June 9, 2011, 11:10 am

    I should take a vitamin B supplement… might help with my stress issues. Right now, I only take a Flintstones kids’ multivitamin and a Viactiv calcium + vitamin D for my bones. I was taking krill oil for a while, but I ran out and they’re darn expensive!

  • becca (bellebottoms) June 9, 2011, 11:13 am

    besides the multi, I also take a calcium supplement, ginko biloba, and ginsing…I also love fish oil…oh, and any time I’m sick, I pound back a few Wellness formula…that stuff rocks!

  • Caitie June 9, 2011, 11:17 am

    I am vegetarian and take a multi vitamin plus a B12. Does anyone else take B12?! I take a pill once a day that is 500mcg which is 8333% of the DV. I am unsure whether it is good or bad to get THAT much of one thing. I did read that out of that, only about 10mcg are actually absorbed into my body though.

  • Angela @ Eat Spin Run Repeat June 9, 2011, 11:19 am

    For omega 3’s, how about Vega Whole Foods Health Optimizer, or chia seeds? I take calcium with vitamin D, and I’m not vegan or vegetarian so I feel my other nutritional needs that would most often be met through animal products are pretty well covered.

  • Parita @ myinnershakti June 9, 2011, 11:31 am

    I take a fish oil supplement along with my multi-vitamin. Thanks for all this info…I need to reevaluate my routine.

  • Charlie June 9, 2011, 11:33 am

    I’m good at forgetting to take supplements so I take a chewable multivitamin that contains B12 and iron. I’d probably need to look for a omega-3 supplement too… I try to add chia seeds to my diet every day but it’s probably not enough…

  • Ella June 9, 2011, 11:40 am

    Hi – I’m a nutrition student so I just wanted to throw my two cents in! There are three types of omega 3 fatty acids and the only two that provide you real benefits are only found in fish and I think seaweed. Chia seeds, flax seeds, walnuts etc all fall into the ALA category which your body can kind of convert to the other types, which is why most americans are deficient in omega-3s. Which totally stinks.

    I take a calcium supplement and iron. I think I need to start taking a B vitamin too, expecially the follic acid..

    • Caitlin June 9, 2011, 1:52 pm

      Oh Ella Thanks so much!

  • JenRD June 9, 2011, 11:42 am

    Since becoming pregnant, I started taking “Belly Bar all natural citrus on board chews,” which I ordered on amazon. They are just a chewable supplement with DHA (omega-3), folic acid, Vitamin D3 (best absorbed type) and calcium. Yes, they have sugar, but they taste like a starburst, and it is only 1-2 little chews a day.

    If you choose to supplement your omega-3’s, there are lots of high quality sea algae-based DHA out there as a vegetarian option. DHA is the best absorbed type of omega-3 anyway (even better than the type found in flax or chia seeds, or other plant sources). Algae is where the fish get it from! Omega 6 and 9 a pro-inflammatory, so I discourage taking any supplements with them in it.

    Good luck with everything!

    Jen

  • Erin @ Big Girl Feats June 9, 2011, 11:44 am

    Oh lord – I have two full pill cases for all ma’ pills! After having a thyroidectomy, I have to take 3000mg of calcium a day (16 pills) and prescription vitamin D. I started taking Omega 3-6-9, B12, selenium, magnesium, a general multivitamin and an herbal supplement during lady times…and I’m pretty sure there are a lot more that I’m forgetting. My nightstand looks like a black market drug store but I think it keeps me healthy!

  • Mary @ Bites and Bliss June 9, 2011, 11:44 am

    I love B-vitamins!! It’s amazing how well they work. I’m also sure to take a multi and calcium once a day. 🙂

  • Erin @ Big Girl Feats June 9, 2011, 11:50 am

    My nightstand looks like a black market drugstore with all my bottles and pills! After having my thyroid removed due to cancer in November, I have to take 3000mcg (16 pills) of calcium daily and a prescription vitamin D – I did some research and also started taking Omega 3, selenium, magnesium, B12/B complex, general multivitamin and a women’s supplement during lady times…and I think I’m forgetting some of them. I feel like it helps, if nothing else, my sanity!

  • Amber K June 9, 2011, 11:51 am

    I take B vitamins, vitamin D, calcium, magnesium and probiotics. I definitely need to find some way of getting the omega fatty acids too.

  • Katherina @ Zephyr Runs June 9, 2011, 11:52 am

    I take a multivitamin, but I’m interested in more!! I’ve got some tinctures tincturing (hehe) right now that I’ll be using soon: Valerian for sleep, Dong Quai for every day (except on my period) and some Bee Pollen for every day.

  • Kierstan @ Life {and running} in Iowa June 9, 2011, 11:52 am

    I just had my doctor run some blood tests to see if I was low on any nutrients/vitamins etc. I told her about my mostly vegan lifestyle and my desire to get most everything I need from the food I eat. Everything she tested for came back great – although I think we might have missed a few things. I have to go back in a month to recheck a few other levels, so might see if she can tack on a few more things.

  • Amy June 9, 2011, 11:53 am

    Have you thought about taking a pre-natal vitamin? I am not anywhere close to having a baby but I’ve been taking one as my multi-vitamin for the last two years. I also take a stress relief zinc formula, a Vitamin D supplement, and a calcium supplement.

    • Caitlin June 9, 2011, 1:53 pm

      I want to! I need to find a good whole food supplement alternative to the traditional pre-natal though.

      • Amy June 9, 2011, 2:26 pm

        Let me know if you find one, I would be interested in a more natural whole food supplement as well! 🙂

  • Jane June 9, 2011, 11:57 am

    Seaweed has TONS of Omega 3’s! Thats where the fishes get their omega 3’s to begin with… so eat veggie sushi and put it into soups and grate it on your salads (its salty though so watch out!)

  • Laura @ MyReasontoRun June 9, 2011, 12:07 pm

    i take a prenatal MVI (for the extra iron), ive always had borderline low iron and now really worry about it since i quit eating meat. i also take 2000IU vit d for a known history of vit d deficiency. and im also having a omega 3/6 dilemma. i didnt want to take fish oil, so i bought flax, but not hearing great things about it…plus the whole geletin capsule issue.

  • Laura @ Sprint 2 the Table June 9, 2011, 12:07 pm

    I love my Juice Plus vitamins. I also take Omega-3, Vitamin D, and B-12. When I miss a day of the Juice Plus, I definitely notice a difference. The B-12 is my fav energy booster before an AM working.

  • Liz June 9, 2011, 12:08 pm

    I think I’m having some hormonal problems as well (going to see a naturopath next weekend) so I’m hoping to get some recommendations on supplements. As of now I take Vitamin B12 and calcium. I think I’m going to start taking Vitamin E as well.

  • Chelsea @ One Healthy Munchkin June 9, 2011, 12:13 pm

    I’m sure you’ve already been told this, but you should take a fish oil pill in addition to your food sources of omega 3s in order to get adequate EPA and DHA. They are pretty much only found in fish!

    I take a fish oil pill and vitamin D.

  • kristen June 9, 2011, 12:13 pm

    I would love to take more vitamins. At the moment I only take a one a day. Basically, I dont know which ones to take, and others to not. There are so many out there!

  • Christine June 9, 2011, 12:17 pm

    I take a multivitamin and, well, um, two generic Tums for calcium because I’m too cheap to buy calcium supplements and my stomach hurts after the vitamins. I guess it works.

  • Lisa @ lisa letting go June 9, 2011, 12:29 pm

    I actually take a prenatal vitamin b/c it’s the only thing that doesn’t make me sick. The normal women’s one a day kind of things always make me super sick about 5 minutes later.

    I should look into getting omega-3. I know I don’t get that in my diet!

  • Michelle@Crazy*Running*Legs June 9, 2011, 12:34 pm

    I’m the worst at remembering to take vitamins. I was REALLY good at remembering when I was pregnant (always a good thing!), but then I fall off the wagon. I might have to look into the Max B Stress. I have been SUPER tired lately. Obviously lacking something.

    BC pills really screwed me over – so I’m a little bitter! They also make me crazy, so it’s probably a good thing I don’t take them anymore. I do have a ParaGard IUD (the copper one) and I LOVE it. Well, as much as you can love birth control!

  • Brittany (A Healthy Slice of Life) June 9, 2011, 12:45 pm

    Try chia seeds, too!

    Also, with extra folic acid and omega-threes, it sounds picture perfect for what one should be doing preconception… JUST in case anything unplanned were to happen.

  • Steph June 9, 2011, 12:47 pm

    Hey Caitlin,

    My mom has osteopenia so I’m pretty good at taking my calcium and vitamin D since I’m not a huge milk drinker ( although I do eat yogurt daily). I also take a multivitamin and lately I’ve incorated wheat grass shakes in my diet since I tend to have a lot of bloating issues if I eat things that have chemicals or dyes in them. I thought about incorporating a fish oil pill into my diet for some omega 3’s but I have yet to do so

  • Julie (A Case of the Runs) June 9, 2011, 12:49 pm

    I take glucosamine and a multi. I will sometimes pop probiotics, too. I know I should do more, but that’s all I can (barely) handle right now.

  • Rebecca June 9, 2011, 1:02 pm

    As a vegetarian I know I need my B Complex supplement everyday, but I hate taking pills. I seem to always wait until I am fatigued and lethargic before I get back in the supplement habit.

  • Gina @ Running to the Kitchen June 9, 2011, 1:07 pm

    I take a multi vitamin but really try to get what I need out of food. I hate how nauseous they make me!

  • Erin @ The Grass Skirt June 9, 2011, 1:28 pm

    My dad hates fish and walnuts, and his doctor told him to take OsteoMove. It is for older people, but there are some good things in it. I take prenatal vitamins, as a prep for being pregnant (hopefully one day soon). That’s really about it!

  • Khushboo June 9, 2011, 1:33 pm

    Simple yet delicious breakfast! I have been meaning to take vitamin b12 and the sane packet has been lying in my desk drawer fr the last 3 months- whoops!

  • Jessica @ The Process of Healing June 9, 2011, 1:33 pm

    I’m *supposed* to take a natural calcium supplement and bone healing supplement and fish oil annd a Women’s daily vitamins. But I’m slightly bad about forgetting to take them… hehe

  • Christine June 9, 2011, 1:38 pm

    I take iron & B12 (on Dr’s orders), Vitamin D, and Omega 3’s. I used to be terrible about remembering to take them but finding out I was very deficient in a few things helped motivate me to stay on top of it.

  • Kelly June 9, 2011, 1:45 pm

    I use flax oil for my Omega-3. It is also a huge cancer fighter. There are several books out that talk about the benefits of flax oil and cancer.

  • Kim Merselis June 9, 2011, 1:48 pm

    I take Iron Supplement as well as Vitamin D and Calcium. Definitely has helped my energy levels!

  • Erin @ Naturally Addicted June 9, 2011, 1:49 pm

    I take flax seed oil everyday for some Omega’s! I also add bee pollen in my smoothies, take a liver support and a women’s hormonal support supplement!! Sometimes it’s difficult trying to get everything you need, but I think I’m getting there.

  • Hillary June 9, 2011, 1:51 pm

    I found out last year that I am seriously deficient in Vitamin D, so I’ve been taking supplements for that. I also had a bit of a health scare in February which led to my doctor noticing that my calcium, potassium, and magnesium levels were in the “scary low” range, so we’ve been working on figuring out the reasons for that. In the meantime, I take a calcium supplement daily (she is against me taking potassium and magnesium in the meantime).

  • Kristin @ Wounded Fawn June 9, 2011, 1:55 pm

    I take ultimate omega(Nordic Naturals), which is a higher concentration of omegas but I also double the recommended dose since I have a history of depression. I am a vegetarian but I know I need a ton of omega-3 so I just do it.
    I take a women’s multi vitamin, liquid calcium/magnesium supplement because I may encounter done density issues from taking steriods regularly for years due to asthma. I take, niacin, not so sure I actually need this and need to find out. Also take a probiotic.

    sounds like a lot. sheesh!
    Maybe I should take b-12 too? lol

  • Tracey @ Tropicalhappiness June 9, 2011, 2:16 pm

    I have a Vitamin B spray that you just reminded me to take… it actually tastes good (an under the tongue spray) and I can feel a major difference when I use it.

    Do you take a prenatal vitamin? My doc suggested that I start taking them about a year before I get pregnant, just to ensure that I am 100% dedicated to taking them in the very early stages of pregnancy (before you know you are pregnant) when the folic acid is the most critical.

  • Ellen June 9, 2011, 2:25 pm

    While I am incredibly sympathetic to the feminist argument for birth control (big time feminist here), I don’t think it totally holds water. Why are we medicating something that’s not broken? There’s nothing WRONG with being fertile. We aren’t sick. I think the discourse needs to change because it isn’t a risk-free option and I believe doctors abuse BC. Condoms all the way for me.

    Re: Omega 3- I have read that plant sources of them are not easily used by the body. Do you or the husband know more about that?

    • Caitlin June 9, 2011, 7:03 pm

      Hmm I don’t know – I’ll ask and try to do a follow up post!

  • M June 9, 2011, 2:36 pm

    I take chorella and sprirulina every day. They are such incredible superfoods. Read more here (http://www.chlorellafactor.com/)

    I also take apple cider vinegar as a supplement, and vitamin B &D.
    I want to start taking gingko and green tea extract!

  • Corrie Anne June 9, 2011, 2:49 pm

    Your blog is really inspiring me to check into some of this stuff. I have a feeling I should be taking something. Maybe I can teach my fiance to hand them to me, but I’m thinking I’d probably have to hand them to him!

  • Danielle June 9, 2011, 2:50 pm

    I take B1 and calcium magnesium to help with my stress/anxiety. I also take C in the morning.

    I have a stress/adrenal support vitamin from my acupuncturist but it’s chewable and I hate it! Does your huz have a reccomendation for one similar that isn’t chewable? Ick! It’s also three times a day which stinks.

  • Steph June 9, 2011, 3:00 pm

    I take a multivitamin, b12, and a calcium supplement daily. I was on birth control for the longest time up until the beginning of winter. Like you I am skeptical about the side effects of birth control.

  • Leah June 9, 2011, 3:03 pm

    I take a Calcium, and Vitamin B (including folic acid)… I feel much better with my Vitamin B – I’m still trying to find one I really like – but do notice when I don’t have it — hot flashes overnight if I don’t take it.

    I can’t take Prenatals, everyday… since my last pregnancy, they still make me nautious!

    I use flaxseeds, hempseeds or chia for Omega3s. I also eat some seaweed, but really should eat more… I am mostly vegan, but occasionaly (1-2 times per month) will eat fish, and have very little dairy and eggs.

  • Johanna B June 9, 2011, 3:20 pm

    I take a multi-vitamin for older women, Vitamin C, B-12, Fish Oil, Calcium with Vitamin D, and I use 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed daily. I’ve considered others but haven’t committed to them yet.

  • Miranda @ Working Mom Works Out June 9, 2011, 3:23 pm

    I take an adult multi-vitamin, a fiber supplement, a supplment of DIM, Calcium D-Glucarate, Green Tea and Lycopene, and fish oil.

  • katie @ KatieDid June 9, 2011, 3:26 pm

    I take Vitamin D and Fish Oil supplements. I think they make vegetarian omega 3 pills, but I’m not positive. Also fortified dairy can help slightly, but I’ve also heard that the omega 3s that they add in some eggs barely gets absorbed by your body and its in such small quantities.

  • Amanda June 9, 2011, 3:31 pm

    I take a multi and a flax oil supplement daily ( both from Trader Joes)but since I eat a mainly Vegan diet I should probably look into adding some more

  • Lara June 9, 2011, 4:12 pm

    I take a bunch of stuff: multivitamin, fish oil, vitamin D, folic acid, selenium, and iron + vitamin C (I’m anemic- the C is to help absorption).

    I’m not sure how effective omega-3 is when it’s added to foodstuffs, as opposed to its natural state, but I know you can get omega-3 enriched Smart Balance spread and some soymilks.

  • Susan - Nurse on the Run June 9, 2011, 4:16 pm

    Technically all women of child bearing age (especially those who have a chance of getting pregnant) should take folic acid supplements because folic acid plays a key role in the neural tube development during the first few weeks of pregnancy. They say all women of age should take it because this development occurs before most women even know they’re pregnant. Complications without proper folic acid include spina bifida….not so good!

  • Lindsey June 9, 2011, 4:20 pm

    Spectrum Algae DHA – LOVE these! Completely vegetarian and no stinky breath/sweat/etc. like you might see with fish oil. 🙂

  • Annie@stronghealthyfit June 9, 2011, 4:27 pm

    I take a basic multivitamin everyday and I swear it helps to balance my moods.

  • Lauren @ LaDolcePita June 9, 2011, 5:51 pm

    I take a multi, calcium/vitamin D, flaxseed oil, b-12, and horse chestnut (for poor leg vein circulation)

  • Stephanie June 9, 2011, 7:05 pm

    I thought whole grains were a good source of B vitamins, as well as miso and nooch, but I could be wrong.
    For omega-3s, try hemp seeds, soy beans and sea vegetables. Fish get their omega-3s from their food, so I like to cut out the middle man and eat some of what they eat.
    Leafy greens, legumes and sunflower seeds are good whole-food sources of folic acid too.
    Other than B12 and the occasional vitamin D, I don’t take supplements. If you’re eating a varied whole food diet, then you don’t need supplements IMO. If you’re eating crap, then vitamins can help, but you’re still not addressing the issue.

  • Jolene June 9, 2011, 8:04 pm

    Chia seeds? I use them liberally all time plus they are yummy!

  • chelsey @ clean eating chelsey June 9, 2011, 8:29 pm

    I take a lot of supplements. My holistic doctor has me on some stuff for my spleen, my hypothalamus, my pituitary gland, my thyroid, and my gall bladder. I sound like a mess, don’t I? 🙂 I just started taking B-6 3x a day and I have felt my energy leveling out – I love it!

  • Allison @ Happy Tales June 9, 2011, 9:13 pm

    Ahh I am loving reading thru all these comments… such a great post, Caitlin! I take a multi vitamin, Calcium + D, biotin, and fishoil. Surprisingly I’m really good at taking them on a daily basis… not sure why that is? It’s just part of my morning routine… kind of like brushing my teethe. Maybe if you put ’em out on your bathroom vanity at night, and then after you took them you put them back away, you’d be better able to stick with it? Just a thought! I always keep mine in a designated spot.

  • Alexa June 10, 2011, 12:40 am

    Hemp seeds or oils are good. Or chia seeds. I really like Barlean’s Total Omega Vegan Swirl:
    http://www.barleans.com/omega-swirl.asp
    You can take it by the spoonful and it tastes delicious. 🙂

    I’m also a vegetarian, so I take B12, Omega 3, Iron, Vitamin D and herbs for my thyroid.

  • E June 10, 2011, 9:51 am

    I take a multivitamin (mostly for the large dose of D vitamins in it), acidophilus (for IBS) and cinnamon (supposed to help with metabolism).

  • Jolene (www.everydayfoodie.ca) June 13, 2011, 6:53 pm

    I take vitamin D, B and a multi.

  • Jessica October 7, 2015, 7:45 am

    What prenatal pills do you recommend for DHA?

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