Mothers are superheroes. They manage to balance more on their plates than any one mere mortal should be expected to handle and some of them even manage to make it look... effortless?! If we are lucky enough to have a mom in our lives, she is often the first one we run to when we are hurt, when we have a question, when we need advice, when we need a confidence boost, when we get our hearts broken, when we doubt ourselves, when we want a home-cooked meal… no matter how old we are. We go to our moms for just about everything. Our moms run at full speed taking care of everyone, which means they often wind up putting their own health and well-being on the back burner in service of others. While we may not have the power to single-handedly upend traditional gender roles, inequities and expectations that keep the "extra" helpings coming on moms' already full plates, we can share some suggestions for superfoods and supplements that could help Mom feel her best. Hint: Mother’s Day, grab her a few from the list and share some suggestions with her so she knows what else might help her start to put her own health at the top of her to-do list. Of course, spa gift certificates as nice as well!
Must-Have Supplement #1: ProbioticsÂ
Probiotics contain bacteria, the good bacteria that we always need more of! Our gut is composed of trillions of bacteria and is responsible for helping with the metabolization of food, nutrient absorption, energy production, hormonal balance, removing toxins and your immune system. Boosting our immune system ensures that we have a plethora of good bacteria to fight off the bad that we are about to be exposed to! Do some research before buying a probiotic - you’ll want to look at the count, strain and cost to compare.
Must-Have Supplement #2: Vitamin CÂ
Vitamin C is the ultimate immune boosting powerhouse. It helps to protect our cells from damage from external threats, reduce the severity of our allergies and combat infections. Vitamin C is water soluble, which means that we must obtain it through our diet. If your mom is a busy bee, pick up some Ener-C Multivitamin Packets for her to keep her both hydrated and healthy all year long!Â
Must-Have Supplement #3: Vitamin D
Also known as the sunshine Vitamin! Depending on where you live, some people see more sun than others year round. Obtaining enough vitamin D throughout the entire year is crucial for supporting your immune system, helping with calcium absorption, protecting our bones, muscles, heart and energy levels! Like probiotics, do your research on this one and look for a liquid option for easy use!
Must-Have Supplement #4: Magnesium
Magnesium might be a supplement that you are less familiar with. It is involved in hundreds of biochemical reactions in our bodies, aids in reducing recovery time, boosts exercise performance, increases energy levels and improves our sleep. Let’s talk about sleep for a moment. Sleep, as boring as it sounds, is a crucial component of your immune strengthening plan. Our goal is to keep mom healthy throughout the year, so why not focus on giving her more of what she needs - healthy supplements and sleep! Studies show that people who consistently deprive themselves of quality sleep are more likely to get sick after being exposed to a virus, such as a common cold virus. Magnesium Glycinate is the best form of magnesium for sleep. It is a combination of magnesium and non-essential sleep-inducing amino acid, glycine.Â
Must-Have Supplement #5: Omega 3’s
Yes, we’re talking about fish oil, the gross stuff! But it doesn’t have to be! Omega 3’s can be good for you AND taste delicious all at the same time. Thank goodness they invented flavoured fish oils! Omega 3’s he;p to fight inflammation, depression and anxiety, while also helping to improve one’s brain and heart health. It provides essential proteins and nutrients for our hair, skin and nails by providing the healthy fats they need to thrive.Â
Must-Have Superfoods for Mom:Â
- Avocados
- Rich in Vitamins C, E, K, and B6, as well as riboflavin, niacin, folate, pantothenic acid, magnesium, and potassium
- Pomegranate
- Rich in antioxidants and Vitamin C and improves digestion and reduces inflammation.Â
- Berries
- Rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fiber and help to regulate one’s blood sugar levels
- Broccoli
- Rich in vitamins and minerals, promotes hormonal balance, improves immunity and promotes eye health
- Seafood
- Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids which help to reduce inflammation, improve mood and one’s hair, skin and nails
- Nuts / Seeds
- Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals
- Dark Leafy Greens
- Rich in chlorophyll, carotenoids, fiber and antioxidants Â
- Sauerkraut & Kimchi
- Rich in probiotics and nutrients and helps to improve digestion, reduce inflammation and aids in weight loss
- Dark Chocolate
- Rich in antioxidants and helps to improve blood flow, brain function and relieve cramping
- Sweet PotatoesÂ
- Rich in Vitamin A & C, fiber and support our vision, brain and immune system
Phew! That was a long list! But what we hope it gave you was options. Our moms are busy people, so they need a lot of nutrients. We hope that you’ll take the time to read this article, pick up a thing or two for your mom, cook her a recipe containing the best superfoods or simply pass this article along to her. Our moms are superheroes, so let’s give them everything they need to be as healthy as possible!
By Lindsay Mustard. Lindsay is a Holistic Nutritionist, foodie and firefighter-in-training with a burning passion for health and fitness. In her nutrition practice, Lindsay works with clients to craft a unique plan that is tailored to their specific health goals using a natural, whole food and supplement approach.