Love can sweep us off our feet, but if we’re not careful, it can also knock us right off track. It’s easy to get caught up in the thrill of new relationships—the late nights, the extra indulgence in food, and all the reasons to toast to your happiness. But while it’s fun in the moment, it’s not exactly a long-term health plan. And let’s be honest: not looking after yourself isn’t love; it’s burdening your partner with the responsibility of your well-being.
In our house, we’ve been there. When my partner and I first got together, we had our share of compromises—like me eating less meat and him swapping out a couple of hockey nights for date nights. But we also laid out our non-negotiables early on: staying healthy, staying active, and being consistent with our supplements. My partner, who’s an ND, made sure we had a list of essentials to keep us on track. These seven supplements aren’t just part of our routine—they’re part of the deal. Some we take daily, others we use as needed. But one thing’s for sure: they’re non-negotiable.
Seven Must-have Supplements for a Healthy Lifestyle
1. Vitamin D3
In the warmer months, we’re outdoors soaking up the sun, but when winter hits, we turn to Vitamin D3. An oil-based formula is our preferred choice because Vitamin D3 is fat-soluble, meaning it’s better absorbed in an oil base. We use it to support our immune system, bone health, and mood, especially when sunshine is scarce. It’s a simple way to maintain the benefits we’d typically get from sunlight, ensuring we stay balanced through the seasons.
2. Curcumin with Piperine
A few years ago, I went through an incredibly stressful period in my life, and it wasn’t long before that stress started showing up physically—aches, pains, and stiffness in places that hadn’t bothered me before. Dr. Phil (my partner) suggested I start taking curcumin regularly to stay on top of inflammation, and it’s made a world of difference. New Roots Herbal’s Curcumin, with its enhanced absorption formula, ensures we’re actually getting the benefits we need, especially for joint health and overall recovery. One key detail? Curcumin doesn’t absorb well on its own—this is where pepper, or piperine, comes in. The addition of piperine makes it easier for your body to absorb the curcumin. It’s a simple trick: if you’re cooking with turmeric (the source of curcumin), always throw in a dash of pepper to make sure you’re getting the most out of it.
3. Glucosamine
According to my very own walking wikipedia (AKA the love of my life) glucosamine is good for maintaining the articulating surfaces of our joints. Whatever, all I know is it allows me to continue behaving like a 16 year old with my girlfriends. We both plan on being active for as long as possible, and glucosamine keeps our joints in check. Whether we’re hiking or biking, cleaning the gutters or mowing the lawn, this supplement helps us stay mobile without the creaks and groans that often accompany mid-life.
4. Wild Omega-3
When it comes to Omega-3s, quality and purity are everything. Omega-3 sourced from wild, sustainably caught fish, delivers potent doses of EPA and DHA that not only support brain and heart health but also contribute to better skin, mood balance, and even eye health. We take New Roots Herbal’s Wild Omega-3 regularly, knowing we’re getting the best possible source of these essential fatty acids, which keep everything from our cognitive function to our skin in top condition.
5. Vitamin C
One of us devours fruit daily, while the other (hi, it’s me) struggles to even glance at a grape. When Phil and I first met, he noticed how easily I bruised and casually suggested I might be flirting with scurvy. Scurvy? Really? Isn’t that something pirates dealt with ages ago? Turns out, no, it’s not just an old-timey problem—and I was probably closer to it than I realized. Aaaargh matey!
Now, I try my best to incorporate more fruit into my diet, but I know it’s never going to be enough, so I rely on supplementation. When the cooler months hit, Vitamin C becomes a staple in our house—there’s even a container in the car for emergencies. It’s crucial for immune support and fighting oxidative stress. New Roots Herbal’s Vitamin C8, with its time-release formula, ensures we get a steady dose throughout the day, giving our immune systems the backup they need, especially during flu season.
6. B Complex
Life gets hectic, and sometimes we feel like we’re running on fumes. That’s when B Complex comes into play. We use New Roots Herbal’s B Complex with Coenzymes and Vitamin C. This formula doesn’t just help our bodies metabolize carbohydrates, fats, and proteins—turning food into usable energy—it also supports normal growth and tissue formation. The added coenzymes mean it’s more readily absorbed, giving us that extra boost when we need it most. It’s essential for managing stress and keeping our energy levels steady, which is crucial when we’re juggling work, family, and our active lifestyle.
7. ATA Mg (Magnesium Acetyl Taurate)
Magnesium is involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, playing a critical role in everything from muscle recovery to nerve function and heart health. Magnesium Acetyl Taurate is a standout form because it combines magnesium’s benefits with taurine’s ability to support brain and heart function. Whether we’re recovering from an intense workout, managing stress, or simply maintaining overall well-being, this supplement is a daily essential we don’t skip.
Maintaining your health is a commitment, not just to yourself but to your partner. It’s about staying well so you can share adventures together—whether it’s scaling mountains or making it through a busy week. But taking care of your health is complex. Supplements help fill the gaps that busy lives and modern diets create, but they’re not a magic fix. You also need strength training, time outdoors, mental health care, proper sleep, and healthy eating. We strive to do it all because we love each other, and know that over time these efforts add up to a healthier, happier life.
Now, I’ll admit I’ve got a bit of an unfair advantage when it comes to knowing which supplements are worth the investment. My partner has more insight into this world than the average person—after all, he literally wrote the book on supplements in Canada. Living with someone who brought in the country’s natural health regulations as the Director General of the Natural Health Products Directorate at Health Canada is a bit like living with a walking, talking encyclopedia of all things health-related. It definitely keeps me on my toes, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
When it comes to trusting supplements, we rely on brands like New Roots Herbal for our must-have supplements. Their commitment to quality and sourcing is unmatched, and their range offers everything we need to keep our health on track. With so much misinformation out there, it’s good to know that we can trust what we’re putting into our bodies. Taking supplements isn’t just about boosting your health—it’s about giving yourself the tools to live your best life. And if you ask me, that’s a pretty solid non-negotiable.
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