We all lived through it. We know 2020 was a year many of us used to level-set and try new things for our body and mind. It was a year of high stress, low beauty standards and, of course, concern for our overall health. I don’t think you could scroll your feed for two minutes without seeing a new trend or fad – from chlorophyll water to collagen – I tried it all [and I watched you try it allll]. Clearly, I was very bored in quarantine… if you remember, I also tried every skincare product known to man. I just wanted to give myself a fresh start and get to a place where I feel strong and beautiful naturally. Here’s my take:
You got me stressed out
- Magnesium – so I first learned about magnesium as a supplement to help curb my PMS, little did I know it has amazing properties to ease anxiety as well. I have mentioned this before, but Natural Calm is one of my favorite helpers when it comes to fighting my anxiety. I just stir it in a glass of water and I feel much more relaxed.
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- Melatonin – many may have tried this one. For me, I am grateful to be an easy sleeper. I think it’s genetic, from my Patti, to my dad, and now my sister and I – we fall asleep the second our heads hit the pillow [but you can stay asleep for 10 hours… I can’t]. However, I have used melatonin on long flights or road trips to force myself to ignore the fomo and catch some Z’s.
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- Chamomile – growing up, I always thought chamomile was just used to ease the digestive system. However, on nights where I feel wound up or high energy and need to chill, I flip the tea kettle on and make myself a glass of Chamomile tea. Not only does this help ease stress and anxiety, but it also works as a sleep aid. Drinking a cup as we speak!
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- CBD – CBD has had a hell of a year. It’s everywhere – gummies, drops, candles, lotions – literally. Everywhere. So you know I had to jump on this bandwagon. I’ll give it to ya straight, the first couple of times I didn’t really feel a difference here [same… and still doesn’t do anything]. It wasn’t until I tried taking Penguin CBD in the onset of an anxiety attack that I witnessed the magic everyone is raving about.
You’re beautiful
- Collagen – This is another one that was all the rage this past year. Everyone wants to stop the aging process – I get it – and this is one thing I was open to trying before I go under the needle (which I will probably always be too scared to do… just bring on the jowls) [sign me up for the fastest method with least patience needed]. I tried the Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides and I’ll be honest, I don’t think I lasted long enough. I think if I were more consistent in my intake I would have noticed more of a difference, after all the real noticeable impact would be 10 years from now, right?? I’ll be sure to report back
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- Turmeric – Obviously, growing up in an Indian household, turmeric was basically pumped into my veins [and stains my nails yellow, why do you think Indians always like red polish!]. My mom has taught me all about its benefits, from its anti-inflammatory properties to how it helps with arthritis. So, even though this wasn’t a 2020 find, I couldn’t leave it off the list. Start cooking with it ASAP.
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- Apple cider vinegar – woo, talk about a tough pill to swallow… This was probably the toughest fad I tried, just because of the taste. I hate shots. I am a baby and I can’t do them and all my friends know it. Try taking a shot of ACV every day for a month. I did it – but didn’t enjoy it. First week I just knocked it back, then I found out it was probably burning my esophagus, so I started mixing it in warm water. ACV is supposed to help with weight loss by reducing bloat and belly fat. While I definitely felt better while drinking it, I didn’t notice a huge difference… but that also could be because I eat a lot of pizza.
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- Biotin – this is one of my faves. I have always had issues with my hair falling out (ask my family and friends, I shed everywhere I go and they will find my hair for days after I’ve left) and weak and peeling nails. My shedding has significantly decreased and my nails are longer and stronger than ever since I have been taking biotin. I recommend – 10/10. [ok I’ll try again, but again needs too much patience]
A spoonful of sugar
- Zinc – remember that time I said I can’t take shots, I don’t know why I put zinc pills into this category. My sister swears by zinc when she feels a cold coming on, but I just can’t do it.. I don’t know what it is, but since she loves it, it made the list. Let me know if anyone else can relate…
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- Protein powder – I have very mixed feelings on this one [do protein bars count?]. I loved taking protein powder for a lot of reasons; it was great recovery after my workouts, curbed my hunger until I could make dinner, and I clearly noticed a difference in my muscle definition. I was just taking one scoop a day after workouts (so, about 3-4 days per week) but it led to slightly elevated creatinine levels at my annual checkup and after diving into the black hole that is Web MD, this is weirdly common! So, while I would recommend, be careful and keep an eye on your body and communication lines open with your doc. #protectyourkidneys
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- Elderberry – I have always leaned heavily on Vitamin C for immunity support. I was chugging a whole glass of Emergen-C daily. It wasn’t until the pandemic, where everything was completely sold out, that I had to find an alternative… because that was the worst time to slack on my immune support. This is when I found Elderberry. It tastes delicious and I have felt better than ever. Nature’s Way has a great elderberry gummy – I take two every morning.
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- Probiotic – another fave of mine from my pre-pandemic days is taking a daily probiotic. I really believe gut health is the source of all things good and I invested in this one early. I use Florastor at the recommendation of my doctor – it’s a bit pricey but I have never felt better. When I run out or miss a few days I feel the difference, and it’s nice to know it is working, as some of these fads you never really know until it’s too late and you’ve already emptied your wallet. [exactly – how much have you spent on this whole damn list??]
I am always on the hunt for new things to try, and I will try to keep you all up to date. Any recommendations for me?! Let’s hear them in the comments.
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