Last Updated on January 19, 2026 by Lila Sjöberg
Every few months, I look at the vitamin graveyard in my cabinet — half-empty bottles I bought with great intentions and forgot to take. After years of trial and error, I’ve landed on a handful of supplements I actually take consistently. Here’s my honest take on what’s worth it.
Key Takeaways
Most healthy people can get nutrients from food, but busy moms often have gaps. The supplements with strongest evidence are vitamin D, omega-3s, and possibly magnesium. Consistency matters more than perfection. Always talk to your doctor before starting supplements.
The Short Answer: Worth considering for busy moms: vitamin D (most people are deficient), omega-3 fatty acids (for brain and mood), magnesium (for sleep and stress), and a quality multivitamin if your diet has gaps. Skip the expensive trendy stuff.
Important note: I’m a mom, not a doctor. Talk to your healthcare provider about what’s right for you.
My Daily Non-Negotiables
Vitamin D is my number one — most of us are deficient. I take 2000 IU daily. Omega-3s come second for brain health and mood. Magnesium glycinate before bed helps with sleep. That’s it. Three things, every day.
If You’re Still Breastfeeding
Keep taking your prenatal vitamin. Extra vitamin D is important for nursing moms. Choline is another often-overlooked nutrient for baby’s brain development.
If You’re Exhausted
Before supplements, check for underlying issues like iron deficiency or thyroid problems. B-complex vitamins support energy production. Better sleep, nutrition, and movement do more than any pill. See our energy-boosting essentials for a comprehensive approach.
If You’re Stressed or Anxious
Magnesium has calming effects (indicated above). Ashwagandha has some research showing stress reduction. L-theanine promotes calm. If anxiety is significant, please talk to a healthcare provider. Our self-love revolution has other strategies too.
What I’ve Stopped Taking
Hair/skin/nail vitamins — expensive and I noticed no difference. Collagen peptides — weak evidence for skin benefits. Various immune boosters — mostly marketing. Greens powders — just eat vegetables!
How to Actually Take Them
Keep them visible on the counter. Pair with an existing habit. Use a pill organizer. Don’t aim for perfection — missed days happen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are prenatal vitamins necessary after pregnancy?
If breastfeeding, yes. Otherwise, a regular multivitamin is probably fine.
How do I know if a supplement is quality?
Look for third-party testing (USP, NSF verified). Choose reputable brands.
The Bottom Line
Supplements are supplementary — they can’t fix a terrible diet and won’t give you energy if you need sleep. Keep it simple: vitamin D, omega-3s, maybe magnesium. Skip the trendy stuff.
Now I’m going to take the supplements I forgot this morning. Because even after writing this, I’m still human. 😊
Lila.
