Teas & Supplements for Women's Health

To raise awareness about the preventive measures a woman can take to protect herself from chronic disease, last week we highlighted 5 foods that support female reproductive health.

While we absorb tons of necessary nutrients from whole foods and well-balanced daily meals, there are a few vitamins and minerals that can be difficult to obtain only from the foods that we eat.Here are some teas and supplements that are known to be beneficial for women’s health. Just make sure to take the right amounts because too much of a good thing can be a bad thing!

Reproductive HealthTry Raspberry Leaf Tea, known as the “women’s tonic” for reproductive health. Anecdotal evidence suggests that the nutrients in the leaves help tone uterine muscles and relieve PMS symptoms, and many women believe that it aids delivery late in pregnancy and can enrich breast milk.

Bone HealthCalcium is crucial for bone health, particularly for women as they age. Women are at much higher risk than men for osteoporosis and broken bones later in life. When taking it as a supplement, it is important to combine with magnesium and vitamin D for proper absorption.

Heart HealthDrink black tea! This super antioxidant beverage is proven to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and blood pressure for women. Not only will your heart be happy, but the tea leaves can double as a beauty product when applied topically, preventing premature aging and puffy eyes. To get the most out of your black tea, make sure to leave in hot water for at least 5 minutes to release its antioxidant properties.

FertilityNew research shows that Omega-3 fatty acids help regulate the menstrual cycle and boost fertility, among many other great health benefits (such as protecting your heart from air pollution!) If you’re not getting enough in you diet, the best way to get the nutrients is from fish oil or vegan Omega-3 capsules.

ImmunityElderberry is most commonly used to fight colds and flu, but it also helps to fight inflammation and strengthen the immune system. Elderberry is most commonly taken as a tea, syrup, or lozenge short-term so that you can get that boost you need – and go on with your busy day!

MoodKnown as the “Sunshine Vitamin,” vitamin D is produced in our bodies when absorbing sunlight or eating certain foods such as fish, eggs, or fortified foods. Women who are deficient in this vitamin tend to feel symptoms of weight gain, moodiness, and depression. Wintertime is an especially hard time to get enough vitamin D. Before taking the supplement, check with your doctor to find out if you are below the optimal level.

Not all supplements fair the same. If you’re looking for a supplement right for you, ConsumerLab.com is a great resource to find out which brands are best.

Which supplements do you take for optimal health?