Dr. Linda Ellison, founder of kaü
The global wellness market shows no signs of slowing, but the sales of vitamins and supplements, in particular, have skyrocketed during the pandemic. Because while eating a balanced diet is all well and good, it’s more than easy to be missing something that could help us feel and perform even better.
“A typical diet doesn’t contain the necessary nutrient spectrum, density, and functionality needed to achieve and sustain optimal health,” explains Dr. Linda Ellison, founder of kaü, a trailblazing immunity supplement that harnesses the power of amino acids. “That’s why we need supplemental nutrients to help our bodies function at their best.”
So when purchasing vitamins and supplements, what should you consider? First, cost. “Many people buy the McDonalds versions, yet expect them to have the quality of a farm-to-table, organic restaurant,” says Ellison. “But given the costs involved, it’s not possible to deliver good ingredients, science, and research at a low price point.”
Second, think about augmentation – in other words, how much of the key ingredient a supplement has. Ellison notes, “From extensive third-party lab testing, we know that vitamins and supplements with specialized flavors, colors, and smell are comprised of at least 75% additives.”
Then, factor in the quantity and percentage of ingredients. You typically take a vitamin or supplement with a specific goal in mind, but according to Ellison, “If it has a long list of ingredients, then it can’t contain enough of any one at a functional level to really benefit you.”
And though it’s not the most elegant topic, consider what Ellison refers to as “The Bathroom Test.” Observe your urine after trying out a new supplement, and check if it’s dark in color or has a harsh smell. “If so, your body has flushed out the majority of your vitamin or supplement, instead of making it functional in your system,” explains Ellison.
While vitamins and supplements are no replacements for a well-rounded diet, they can alleviate a range of issues, from anxiety to sleeplessness – which only seem to be heightened during these highly emotive times. So ahead, 20 easy ways to help you feel your absolute best – from the inside out.
kaü Immunity Build, $300
Amino acids serve as your body’s essential building blocks, and are “key to human biological functioning,” says Ellison. While they’re unique and serve specific roles, they’re more powerful when working together as a collective unit. So, to help them optimally perform: “Immunity Build triggers the rapid production of immune system cells and codes those cells to be shaped and operate with the robust vitality of youthful cells, explains Ellison.
Equilibria Extra Strength Daily Drops, $196
This visionary CBD company stands out from the rest for being owned by women, organic, and creating products expressly for womens’ unique needs. Equilibia even goes as far as to offer dosage specialists, whom help take the guesswork out of CBD and customize a routine just for you. So when you need immediate, soothing relief, take 1/4 dropper of this fast-acting, full-spectrum oil.
Plant People Drops+Sleep 1440 mg CBD, $119.99
Given the volatile times we’re in, sleep may not come as easily as it used to. So the next time you’re feeling antsy before at night, turn to this. With organic, full-spectrum hemp extract, this potent formula encourages the body and mind to wind down for a deep night’s slumber. Even better? There’s no chance of feeling drowsy when you wake up – just refreshed and ready to take on the day.
Level Select CBD Zzz 2400mg CBD Oil Drops with Melatonin, $89.99
Though this brand was developed to help athletes naturally recover – pro golfer Rickie Fowler is a devoted fan – it’s terrific for anyone needing relief from life’s everyday stressors. And for those nights when a solid night’s sleep is necessary – but when your mind just won’t turn off – take a few drops of this sweet, vanilla-flavored formula combining broad spectrum CBD and melatonin.
Mab & Stoke Custom Mab Tab, $66
Wouldn’t it be lovely to have a supplement created expressly for you? That’s the thinking behind the innovative Mab Tab. After completing an online questionnaire, you’ll be shipped a tin filled with 28 tabs. Take one every morning – it dissolves in cold and hot beverages – to reap the benefits of immunity-boosting herbs (like burdock, lemon balm, and red clover).
No matter the amounts of serums and creams you slather on, sometimes you need to go beyond basic skincare. That’s when this cutting-edge supplement comes to the rescue. Rigorously tested in France, and featuring a proven blend of vitamin C, zinc, and champagne grape seed, one capsule with breakfast is all it takes to gradually fade stubborn discoloration and and promote a luminous glow.
Kamu Vitality, $59.95
A newly-launched wellness brand bridging time-tested practices with modern-day science, Kamu offers three streamlined products using a special Liposomal Technology – it facilitates efficent delivery of each carefully selected ingredient to weakened cells – to help rest, restore, and balance the body and mind at a deep level. And since feeling healthy and vital during these uncertain times is a priority, take two pumps of this every morning.
Cymbiotika Golden Mind - Advanced Brain Nutrients, $50
The brain is one of the hardest working organs in the body, but often neglected in the world of supplements. So give it some well-deserved care with this delicious – it tastes like vanilla chai – potion, fortified with nootropics like Phosphatidylcholine, Rodiola Rosea, and Gotu Kola Extract. For the uninitiated, nootropics are natural ingedients that enhance cognitive performance.
Life’s First Naturals Healthy Immune System Support with ColostrumOne, $39.99
For the uninitiated, colostrum is the incredibly nutrient-rich milk produced after birth that promotes newborn development. And it turns out – bovine colostrum is equally beneficial for adults as well. Take a couple of these just-enveiled capsules every day to help support immunity, reduce inflammation, and promote a healthy gut.
CBD Path Pet Drops, $37.50
If you have a pet who’s also been struggling the past few months – my senior pup squarely falls into this category – take comfort in knowing CBD can support your fur child, too. In the same way the all-around workhorse alleviates anxiety, racing thoughts, and sleeplessness for us humans, CBD can also help animals slip into the chill zone and a more calm, relaxed state.
Ritual Essential for Women 50+, $35
When Katerina Schneider founded Ritual back in 2016, she was among the first to champion transparency – literally, in regards to the design, and the ingredients – for women’s multivitamins. And to meet the specific needs of post-menopausal women, Ritual thoughtfully unveiled this vitamin late last year. Each crystal-clear capsule contains eight extensively researched ingredients (including Boron and Vitamin K2) that address a range of concerns, from bone strength to muscle function.
Solluna Feel Good Detoxy 2.0, $30.00
No matter how balanced your diet is, it’s only natural to have days when you feel bloated, backed up, and uncomfortable. So when that happens, take several of these capsules with water at night. While you sleep, Feel Good Detoxy 2.0 oxygenates the colon and supports healthy gut bacteria, so elimination the following morning comes with ease.
SugarBearHair Vitamins, $29.99
Don’t be fooled by appearances. Because while these sweet, chewy gummies are adorably shaped and brightly colored, they’re loaded with vitamins and nutrients (think folic acid, biotin, and Vitamin D) that contribute to stronger, healthier locks – making them suitable for everyone, regardless of gender and age. Simply take two a day.
Bio-Kult Mind, $29.50
There’s no shortage of probiotic brands, but this British one stands for being non-GMO, requiring no refrigeration, and including a bacterial strain called Bacillus Subtilis PXN 21. And the company’s newest launch spotlights not just the digestive tract, but the brain as well. In addition to probiotics, Bio-Kult Mind has zinc citrate and grape and blueberry extracts to help your mind function as smoothly as your gut.
For moments when you’re feeling off, on the verge of getting sick, or worse – like those woefully early mornings that follow late, rowdy nights – empty one of these packets into some water. Chock full of ingredients that bolster your immune system (zinc and L-glutamine) and buffer an overtaxed liver (electrolytes), they’ll get you back on your feet (and off the couch) sooner than later.
Hilma Indoor/Outdoor Support for Allergies, $25
Developed for those who routinely suffer from allergies but prefer a more natural approach, these supplements incorporate only proven botanicals (think Tinospora, Butterbur, and Spirulina). In addition to providing lasting relief from indoor and outdoor irritants, they also keep your sinuses comfortably clear to help you breathe with ease.
Zenwise Health ZenDEFENSE™, $24.97
Because having a strong immune system is a priority for everyone nowadays – especially in light of the pandemic – pop this recently launched supplement twice a day. It’s packed with vitamin C, zinc, and the brand’s proprietary Immune Defense Blend complex to ward off stress, illness, and other environmental aggressors.
EiR NYC Pure Eir, $20
Here’s the reality: until we have a vaccine for COVID-19, we need to keep our hands exceptionally clean at all times. But instead of a harsh drugstore sanitizer, why not try this? The spray is easy to use, and the elegant formula – comprised of 65% ethyl alcohol and fragrant, protective oils like cypress and sweet orange – makes tidying up on-the-go a pleasure, not a chore.
R3SET Calm, $17.99
If you’re overwhelmed with stress – and not to mention, the number of anti-stress supplements on the market – you’re not alone. That’s why a group of doctors and psychologists got together to develop R3SET, which rebalance the three systems (nervous, immune, and endocrine) than can flare up stress. On top of smelling terrific, each transparent capsule is filled with GABA, Ashwagandha, and other ingredients so you feel calm, cool, and collected during the day.
8Greens SKIN Tablets, $16
Since it’s going to be a while until most of us can get a proper facial, drop one of these tablets into a glass of water once a day. Loaded with skin-healthy ingredients (including biotin, vitamin A, and marine collagen), 8Greens SKIN helps maintain a supple complexion and radiant glow. Another perk? It tastes delicious, like orchard-fresh apples.
Zhou Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies, $12.24
Though apple cider vinegar has been widely used by holistic practioners for centuries, it’s only more recently been getting attention stateside. A real powerhouse ingredient, it tackles various issues including blood sugar, heart health, and digestion. The downside? Its astringent taste. So to take advantage of apple cider vinegar’s benefits without the bite, try these gummies.
Gaia Herbs Everyday Elderberry Gummies, $11.99
Though elderberry’s benefits have been touted for centuries, the popularity of the superfood berry has especially boomed during the pandemic. But since the antioxidant-packed fruit can be overly tart on it own, try these juicy, sweet gummies – which feature everything good about elderberry, with none of the bad.
