Well, I Tried: The 5 Vitamins I Started Taking at 50 (Because Aging Like a Boss is a Goal)

Turning 50. We made it, ladies. And let me tell you, the lead-up was just as intense as they say—complete with midlife “self-care” pep talks, a drawer of reading glasses, and more Google searches about hot flashes than I’d like to admit. So, after a solid reality check and a few mini-meltdowns, I decided to embrace a new mantra: aging unapologetically (but with a cheat sheet). So, if you’re like me and aiming to thrive over 50 without all the side effects that come along with that number, here’s my no-BS rundown on the vitamins I started taking—and loving.

1. Fiber

Okay, listen, fiber is not glamorous, but it’s the unsung hero we’ve been ignoring for far too long. Keeping the digestive tract happy means fewer of those not-so-glamorous bloaty, sluggish days. The fiber supplement I take is like hitting the refresh button every morning. And trust me, your gut health deserves it—because, spoiler alert, gut health is huge for women over 40. It helps support metabolism, and as I’ve discovered, regularity (the adult kind) becomes the new sexy.

2. B-Complex

Now, let’s talk energy. I don’t know about you, but that “all-day energy” I used to have somehow went missing. Enter: B vitamins. This powerhouse combo is basically my daily pep talk in a pill. B-complex vitamins help with metabolism, mental clarity, and even mood. These days, I’m not just crawling through the afternoon—I’m actually making it through my day with enough energy to hit the gym (without eyeing the exit every 10 minutes). B vitamins, I’m never letting go.

3. Magnesium

Magnesium deserves all the hype it gets, especially if you’ve experienced the mystery foot spasm phenomenon that hits while you’re peacefully trying to relax in the evenings. (Yes, foot spasms. Who knew?) Magnesium has been my saving grace for those weird little aches and cramps, and it’s turned my sleep from “kinda restless” to “solid snooze.” I take it before bed, and not only am I sleeping better, but I’m also waking up without the dreaded foot cramps that feel like some twisted alarm clock.

4. Omega-3s

Omega-3s are the unsung hero of joint health and heart health, both of which become VIPs as we hit our 50s. I’m all about keeping my joints and heart in shape so I can keep up with life (and maybe still be able to dance through the 80s hits without needing a joint replacement). The added bonus? Omega-3s are also fantastic for skin hydration, so I’m feeling a little less dried out and a little more “glow from within.”

5. Lion’s Mane

Ladies, Lion’s Mane is my new favorite thing. Who knew that mushrooms had superpowers? This trendy little supplement supports brain health, mental clarity, and even focus. Since I started taking it, I’m having fewer “Why did I walk into this room?” moments and more “I actually remember my grocery list” moments. Let’s just say it’s my new go-to for those days when I need to be on my game, and I swear it’s helping me keep up with that long to-do list without the classic distraction detours.

So there you have it: the five vitamins supplements I’m officially in a committed relationship with. Each one is doing its part to keep my body feeling good, my mind sharp, and my foot spasms a thing of the past. Here’s to feeling fabulous and vibrant, even if we’re doing it with a little extra help from our new supplement squad. Because if aging is required, thriving through it is totally optional—but we’re choosing the thrive. Cheers!