Expert tips to help you deal with four common issues.
Moms have a lot to deal with, and health challenges such as lack of sleep and compromised immunity often make it tough to get through the day. That’s where supplements can be helpful. When used correctly, supplements can help address a number of common concerns among moms.
Read on for pro tips on improving your well-being from Dr. Nirat Nibber ND, senior medical adviser for Advanced Orthomolecular Research (AOR), a leading provider of innovative nutraceuticals in North America.
Many factors can lead to fatigue for mothers, says Nibber, including feeding schedules and, of course, not getting enough sleep. “We can reduce the long-term negative impact of this sleep deprivation by focusing on nutrition,” she says.
Circadian rhythm disruptions can actually cause blood sugar crashes, which lead to a lot of sluggishness, Nibber explains. “We can manage these crashes with more frequent nutrient-dense diets.” She suggests eating prepared meals at shorter intervals throughout the day.
Getting enough protein is important, as it can help improve energy and assist in recovery from birth itself. Iron recovery and thyroid function post-partum should also be monitored. “Births with significant blood loss may lower iron and induce anemia, which can cause a lot of fatigue,” Nibber says. Pregnancy and post-partum are times of high metabolic activity, so the thyroid can experience serious fluctuations that result in mood and energy swings, she adds.
B vitamins, such as riboflavin (vitamin B2), niacin (vitamin B3) and pyridoxine (vitamin B6), are also important for energy production, metabolism and more, Nibber says. Consider AOR Advanced B Complex Ultra to help ensure you’re getting the recommended daily intake.
Not getting to go to sleep is one thing, but being unable to stay asleep can also cause energy issues. That’s when magnesium before bed may help. “Magnesium is a gentle way to relax muscles, and the glycinate form provides a calming effect, making it an effective and safe sleep option,” Nibber explains. Magnesium supplementation has also been shown to help with post-partum depression. She recommends starting at a low dose, 90 mg, of a glycinate or citrate form, such as AOR’s Magnesium Glycinate.
Mental well-being for moms is critical, Nibber says, “as this can be a period of significant physical and social change.” Saffron, historically used for medicinal and religious purposes, is now being studied for its mood-boosting effects. “It’s a natural support for neurotransmitters, which modulate various functions including sleep and mood.” Affron®, used in AOR’s Saffron 2.0, is a highly purified and sustainable saffron extract. Promising research from Iran validates the potential therapeutic benefits of saffron extracts, Nibber adds:In a study of mothers with mild to moderate post-partum depression, researchers reported the positive effects of saffron in reducing anxiety and improving mood.
Once little ones head off to daycare or school, it’s almost certain they’ll soon bring home a cold. “During times of stress or poor diet, [certain] key nutrients become depleted and we are more susceptible to infections,” Nibber says. Using supplements in the winter months and during back-to-school may help reduce risks.
Zinc status is linked to fewer infections and improved immune responses, Nibber says: just keep in mind that copper can be depleted when using zinc, so consider a product like AOR Zinc-Copper Balance, AOR Vitamin C, or AOR Vitamin D3 Liquid (Adult) to further help support your immunity.
Remember, when you’re considering supplements, it’s important to consult with a health-care practitioner who can provide insight into your health risks and what your body needs, Nibber says. Avoid misusing supplements by following the label, and be aware of the tolerable upper intake level, which is the maximum daily intake that won’t cause adverse health effects.
It’s also important to steer clear of poor-quality supplements. AOR is committed to researching the best that science and nature have to offer: “By delivering the ‘right amount of the right ingredients to the right place at the right time,’ AOR offers its customers a unique and truly orthomolecular approach to personalized nutrition for the future,” Nibber says.
Ready to gain more control over your health and wellness? Click here to learn more about AOR’s range of supplements.
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Karoun Chahinian is a Toronto-based lifestyle editor and writer with a love for all things beauty, personal health, fashion and food.