Supplements: A Healthy Addition to Your Daily Routine

In an effort to bring you a more holistic approach to your overall health, I researched how to bring nutritional counseling into my practice. It turns out that the APTA has recently added Nutritional Counseling to my scope of practice. I found and completed a certification program called Nutritional PT. It seems like such a natural fit to discuss nutritional and physical health together!

So, let’s jump in!

I wanted to start by talking about supplements. Whether you’re navigating the changes of postpartum recovery, struggling with digestive irregularities like constipation, or maintaining an active lifestyle that leaves you sore and cramping, your body is asking for support. And while food is the foundation of wellness, certain supplements can play a powerful role in helping you feel your best, every day. 

One of my go-to supplements is Magnesium. As you read this article, you’ll see that it helps with keeping you healthy in so many different ways. Here’s a breakdown of how targeted supplements (like Magnesium) can support your overall health — and meet your unique needs. 

 For Postpartum Recovery: Replenish, Rebalance, Restore

After childbirth, your body goes through immense change — hormonally, physically, and emotionally. Many new mothers experience fatigue, hormonal fluctuations, hair loss, and nutrient depletion. This is where supplementation can help fill in nutritional gaps and support healing from the inside out.

Key Supplements for Postpartum Wellness:

• Iron: Helps replenish stores lost during delivery and combats fatigue.
  
• Magnesium: Supports mood balance, sleep quality, and muscle recovery.
  
• Omega-3s (DHA/EPA): Essential for brain health and mood regulation.
  
• Collagen: Supports tissue repair, joint health, and skin elasticity.
  
• Probiotics: Help rebalance gut flora, affecting everything from digestion to immunity to mental clarity.
  

Vitamin D: Crucial for immune health and mood, especially if you’re indoors a lot with a newborn.

 Pro Tip: Always consult with your healthcare provider postpartum, especially if you’re breastfeeding.

For Constipation: Gentle, Natural Support for Better Digestion

Constipation isn’t just uncomfortable — it can interfere with your energy levels, skin health, and overall wellness. Whether it’s caused by stress, hormonal changes, or dietary shifts, supplements can offer gentle, effective support to get things moving.

Top Supplements for Gut Regularity:

• Magnesium Citrate: Draws water into the intestines, making stools easier to pass. (Great for nighttime use!)
  
• Prebiotic Fiber (like Inulin or Acacia Fiber): Feeds good bacteria and promotes healthy bowel movements.
  
• Probiotics: Restore and maintain a healthy gut microbiome, which is vital for regularity.
  
• Aloe Vera (internal use): Can help soothe the digestive tract and encourage motility.
  
• Digestive Enzymes: Assist your body in breaking down food properly, especially if meals leave you bloated or sluggish.
  

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to hydrate! Water works hand-in-hand with fiber to support digestion.

For Active Bodies: Preventing Muscle Cramps & Supporting Recovery

If you’re active, whether in the gym or just on your feet all day, your body uses (and loses) nutrients at a faster rate. Muscle cramps, fatigue, and delayed recovery are all signs that your body might need extra support.

Best Supplements for Active Lifestyles:

• Magnesium Glycinate or Citrate: Helps relax muscles, prevent cramps, and promote restful sleep.
  
• Electrolyte Blends (with Potassium & Sodium): Replenish minerals lost through sweat and reduce cramping.
  
• BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids): Support muscle recovery and reduce soreness.
  
• Protein (Whey or Plant-Based): Helps rebuild muscle post-exercise and maintain lean mass.
  
• Turmeric (Curcumin): Natural anti-inflammatory for joint and muscle comfort.
  

Pro tip: If you’re cramping often, check your hydration and mineral intake — it might not just be about potassium!

Final Thoughts

Supplements are just that — a supplement to a healthy diet and lifestyle. They can be incredibly helpful when used intentionally and consistently, especially during life transitions or periods of high stress on the body.

Whether you’re healing postpartum, aiming for digestive balance, or striving to perform your best physically, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Listen to your body, fuel it wisely, and consider supplementing when you need that extra support.

Need Supplements?

If you’re going to take supplements, make sure they are high quality. There can be lots of fillers and low quality ingredients in supplements bought at the grocery store. 

Don’t worry, I got you covered! I am carrying Thorne and Xymogen brand supplements (in addition to some other ones too) at a discounted rate. Let me know what you need and I’ll make sure to have it in stock for you. Contact me directly through call, text, or by filling out this form.