A Doctor Shares the 5 Must-Have Vitamins for Black Women
In the pursuit of becoming the best versions of ourselves, prioritizing our health is paramount. Recognizing the unique needs of Black women, Pharmacist Dr. Ashley Griffith, Pharm.D. has curated a specialized 5 vitamin regime to redefine and enhance overall health. Let's delve into the details of this proactive approach to optimal well-being, keeping in mind the insightful advice from Dr. Griffith.
Editor’s note:
While Lushness divided vitamin picks by category, please note that there may be some overlap among our picks. That said, please consult the nutrition facts label and a trusted medical professional for further guidance. All products featured on Lushness are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Daily Multi-Vitamin: A Tailored Approach
Navigating the multivitamin maze can be overwhelming, but Dr. Griffith provides insight to simplify the process. She emphasizes the importance of USP verification, ensuring the purity and accuracy of ingredients. Choosing a multivitamin with 100% of the daily value for most nutrients is crucial. Dr. Griffith cautions against exceeding 100% for certain nutrients, as they can accumulate and become toxic. Additionally, the right balance for age is key—premenopausal women may need more iron, while older women may require more calcium. This personalized approach ensures that the multivitamin is not just a supplement but an essential component of your overall health strategy.
Daily Probiotic: Beyond Digestive Health
Probiotics are often associated with digestive health, but Dr. Griffith challenges this notion. She reveals that probiotics can boost energy levels, improve overall health, and reduce stress symptoms by lowering cortisol levels. When selecting a probiotic, paying attention to colony-forming units is vital. Dr. Griffith recommends products with at least 1 billion colony-forming units, including Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Bacillus, or Saccharomyces boulardii. Highlighted probiotics such as Bacillus coagulans and Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG have been extensively researched, reinforcing their efficacy. By incorporating a daily probiotic, Black women can proactively support their energy levels and overall well-being.
Daily Omega-3: The Power of Essential Fatty Acids
Omega-3s, renowned for heart and brain health, offer a myriad of benefits for Black women. Dr. Griffith underscores their role in maintaining a strong immune system, supporting visual, hormonal, and reproductive health, and aiding in weight management. Given the alarming prevalence of diabetes among African American women, controlling inflammation becomes crucial, making omega-3 supplementation highly beneficial. Choosing the right omega-3 supplement is essential, with a recommended daily intake of at least 650 milligrams of EPA and DHA. By incorporating omega-3s into their routine, Black women can take proactive steps toward preventing and managing various health conditions.
Daily Co-Enzyme Q10: Boosting Heart Health
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) emerges as a valuable addition to the vitamin regime, particularly for heart health. Dr. Griffith highlights its role in converting food into energy, aiding conditions like high blood pressure and heart failure. Considering the higher cardiovascular disease burden among African American women, CoQ10 becomes a strategic supplement for overall health. A recommended daily dose of 100 to 200 milligrams can significantly contribute to improved heart health. By incorporating CoQ10, Black women can take proactive measures to address and mitigate cardiovascular risks.
Daily Vitamin D3: Beyond Bone Health
Vitamin D, more than just a vitamin, plays a crucial role in regulating the body's ability to absorb calcium. Dr. Griffith sheds light on its significance in bone health and its impact on conditions like fibroids. The higher prevalence of fibroids among Black women is addressed through studies showing that vitamin D supplementation inhibits fibroid growth. With a recommended intake of 400–800 IU/day or 10–20 micrograms, depending on age, vitamin D3 becomes an essential component of the regime. Black women can proactively address vitamin D deficiency, considering factors like skin pigmentation, lactose intolerance, lack of supplementation, and genetic predisposition.
In embracing this 5 vitamin regime curated by Dr. Griffith, Black women can feel empowered to take proactive steps toward optimal health. This comprehensive approach addresses the unique needs of Black women, providing not just supplements but a personalized strategy for well-being. Your body is extraordinary, and by giving it the best, you are investing in a healthier, more vibrant you.
