What actually works (and what’s just expensive pee)
Let’s be honest. The supplement aisle can feel like a glittery scam.
Labels promise calm, clarity, energy, hormonal harmony, and better sleep — all in one capsule. But when you’re deep in stress mode, burnt out from doing it all, and desperate for relief, you need more than a marketing slogan. You need something that actually works.
So, from one chronically stressed woman to another — and from a qualified Clinical Naturopath with over a decade of experience — here’s the no-BS breakdown on the best stress supplements that do what they say, and the sneaky red flags to avoid.
First: What Makes a Good Stress Supplement?
It’s not about how pretty the packaging is (although, hey, we love good design). What matters most is:
- Therapeutic dosing – Not pixie dust. You want clinically studied levels of each ingredient.
- Ingredient synergy – Some nutrients work better together, especially for nervous system support.
- No BS fillers – Sugar, artificial colours, random “proprietary blends”? Nope.
- Real practitioner formulation – Not trend-based. Not AI-generated. Not made by some “wellness influencer”.
Top Supplements That Actually Support Your Stress Response
1. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
If stress is your middle name, this adaptogen might just become your new best friend.
Why it works: Ashwagandha supports a healthy HPA axis (your brain-body stress system) and helps regulate cortisol — your main stress hormone. But not all ashwagandha is created equal. You want a full-spectrum root extract at a therapeutic dose (hello, 3 grams — not 100mg).
Used in: Glowable Adapt — clinically dosed at 3g per serve.
2. Magnesium Glycinate
Not all magnesiums are equal. Glycinate is the chill cousin — well absorbed and calming without the digestive side effects.
Why it works: Magnesium supports over 300 enzymatic functions, including nervous system regulation. Stress depletes it fast. Most women are running low and don’t even know it.
Used in: Glowable Adapt — a potent 300mg dose, paired with synergistic cofactors.
3. Activated B Vitamins
The unsung heroes of energy, resilience, and mood.
Why they work: B-complex vitamins help convert food into energy, regulate mood, support adrenal health, and fuel neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. Activated forms (like 5-MTHF as folate, or B12 as methylcobalamin) are more bioavailable, especially if you have MTHFR mutations.
Used in: Glowable Adapt — because gimmicks don’t cut it.
4. Rhodiola rosea... Except, Not Always
Rhodiola can be amazing for some — but it can be overstimulating. If you’re wired but tired, anxious, or hormonally sensitive, it might make things worse.
Why you won’t find it in Adapt: Our customers are often burnt out, not just tired. You don’t need more buzz — you need balance.
5. L-Theanine
Found in green tea, L-theanine promotes calm focus without sedation. Especially good when you’re overstimulated but need to get sh*t done.
Note: L-theanine isn’t in Adapt — it’s more of an acute, short-term option than a daily foundational nutrient.
The Ones to Watch Out For
- Proprietary blends – They hide underdosed ingredients behind fancy names.
- Cheap forms of magnesium – Like oxide or citrate. Poor absorption, can cause loose stools.
- Supplements with artificial sweeteners – Stress + gut disruption = no thanks.
- Brands with no practitioner input – If it’s not backed by someone qualified, it’s just noise.
Final Word from a Naturopath (and Fellow Stressed Mum)
When I formulated Adapt, I didn’t want another “me too” product. I wanted something that actually worked — that I would give to my clients, my friends, and myself. Every ingredient is there for a reason. No fluff. No fillers. Just results.
So if you're tired of guessing, second-guessing, and peeing out expensive capsules, here’s your shortcut:
Your nervous system will thank you.