Optimizing Supplement Routine for Weight, Gut Health, and Sleep
A user seeks advice on refining their vitamin and supplement regimen aimed at weight management, improved gut microbiome, cognitive function, and better sleep. The conversation includes detailed feedback and suggestions for additions like green tea extract for enhanced results.
Feedback on current vitamin/supplement routine
Hello!
I'm feeling slightly disorganised with the current vitamin/supplement intake at the moment.
Would love some feedback regarding what I should add or subtract from the daily intake list below:
VITAMIN INDEX
MORNING:
APPLIE CIDER VINEGAR · HYALURONIC ACID · ACETYL L-CARNITINE (MON / WED / FRI) · YERBA MATE (TUE / THU) · NMN (TUE / THU) · LITHIUM OROTATE (LUTEAL PHASE) TAKEN IN FASTED STATE*
AFTERNOON:
BEFORE LUNCH: · INOSITOL (MON / WED / FRI) · PAPAYA ENZYME
AFTER LUNCH: · MATCHA + PEPPERMINT EXTRACT · COPPER · CRANBERRY EXTRACT · PRE/PROBIOTIC · BIOTIN
EVENING:
BEFORE DINNER: · L-GLUTAMINE, SLIPPERY ELM · FISH OIL · ALOE VERA EXTRACT (OPTIONAL)
AFTER DINNER: · PEPPERMINT EXTRACT · MAGNESIUM · TART CHERRY · L-THEANINE (TUE / THU) · APIGENIN (FOR SLEEPLESSNESS) · BERBERINE & · ACTIVATED CHARCOAL (OPTIONAL)
My main goal is weight management, healthy gut microbiome maintance, better cognitive function and sleep.
Here’s a detailed review and some suggestions for your current vitamin and supplement routine:
Morning Routine
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Apple Cider Vinegar:
- Benefits: May help in lowering blood sugar levels after meals.
- Considerations: Overuse can lead to low potassium levels. Ensure it's taken in moderation[^1].
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Hyaluronic Acid:
- Benefits: Known for enhancing skin hydration and elasticity. It is generally safe and supports joint health[^2][^3].
- Considerations: If skin or joint health isn't a primary concern, you may reduce this unless you notice specific benefits.
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Acetyl L-Carnitine:
- Benefits: May support cognitive function and energy metabolism. Some studies suggest it could reduce fatigue[^4].
- Considerations: It's safe for most people but can interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners[^4].
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Yerba Mate:
- Benefits: Contains caffeine that may enhance energy and focus. Also rich in antioxidants and nutrients.
- Considerations: Be cautious with caffeine intake, especially if sleeplessness is a concern.
-
NMN:
- Considerations: Has been studied for its potential in anti-aging and boosting NAD+ levels for cellular repair. Safe but efficacy in humans needs more research.
-
Lithium Orotate:
- Considerations: Typically used for mood stabilization; consult with a healthcare professional due to potential interactions or side effects.
Afternoon Routine
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Inositol:
- Benefits: Supports brain health and may aid in reducing anxiety or stress.
- Considerations: Generally considered safe in moderate amounts.
-
Papaya Enzyme:
- Benefits: May aid digestion due to its enzymatic content.
- Considerations: Beneficial if you experience digestive discomfort post-meals.
-
Copper:
- Benefits: Essential for red blood cell formation and maintaining nerve cells.
- Considerations: Balance with zinc intake as excessive copper can be harmful.
-
Cranberry Extract:
- Benefits: Often used for urinary tract health.
- Considerations: Generally safe but effectiveness varies.
-
Pre/Probiotic:
- Benefits: Supports gut health, which is crucial for digestion and overall well-being.
- Considerations: Ensure the strains are suitable for your specific needs.
-
Biotin:
- Benefits: Supports hair, skin, and nail health.
- Considerations: Generally safe but assess if it’s necessary alongside your dietary intake.
Evening Routine
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L-Glutamine & Slippery Elm:
- Benefits: Support gut health and may promote digestion.
- Considerations: Useful if you have specific gut concerns.
-
Fish Oil:
- Benefits: Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, supporting heart and brain health.
- Considerations: Choose a reputable brand to avoid contaminants.
-
Aloe Vera Extract:
- Benefits: Used for digestive health.
- Considerations: Optional if you feel no distinct benefits.
-
Magnesium:
- Benefits: Supports muscle and nerve function, also aids in sleeping.
- Considerations: Safe but adjust based on dietary intake.
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Tart Cherry:
- Benefits: May improve sleep quality and reduce inflammation.
- Considerations: Generally safe, a good inclusion for sleep enhancement.
-
L-Theanine:
- Benefits: Promotes relaxation without drowsiness.
- Considerations: Good for stress management, especially in combination with caffeine.
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Apigenin:
- Considerations: May help in promoting sleep and reducing anxiety.
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Berberine:
- Benefits: Supports blood sugar regulation and gut health.
- Considerations: Ensure it's suitable for your health conditions.
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Activated Charcoal:
- Considerations: Offers detoxification benefits but should be used sporadically to avoid interfering with nutrient absorption.
Suggestions:
- Weight Management & Cognitive Focus: Consider adding green tea extract or L-citrulline for energy and metabolism support if needed.
- Sleep and Gut Health: Maintain magnesium, tart cherry, and probiotics.
Consider discussing with a healthcare professional to tailor it precisely to your needs, especially if you have underlying health conditions. Monitoring how you feel with each supplement over time can also help in deciding on its necessity.
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