About FLO Vitamins
Let’s be real, both women and men have all—in some way—been affected by the painful, heavy, and disruptive symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome (better known as, “PMS.”). Now hang on before you skip this review, dear men.
While all women have at some point faced this age-old saga, men could benefit second-hand. Perhaps, glean a thing of two in support of their female compadres. 90% of all women experience cramping, hormonal acne, bloating, nausea, headaches, and mood changes—on the monthly. Yup, that’s an average of 450 periods in a woman’s lifetime.
There’s only so much a jar of ice cream, a heated blanket, and ibuprofen will do. But what about a daily, prophylactic vitamin that builds your reproductive health from within?
Sliding into our DMs: FLO Vitamins! A creation brought forth to aid half of humanity’s suffering with a supplemental form packed with traditional, ayurvedic ingredients.
Can these donut-shaped gummies truly rid of PMS symptoms?
Sibling Creation of FLO Vitamins
Brianna and Bobby Bitton, a sister-brother duo, founded FLO out of a need to redefine the then-culture around PMS. Brianna, herself suffering from intense symptoms, and Bobby, surrounded by inspirational, powerful women that seemingly suffered each month, set out to not only create a product, but to rewrite the culture around PMS remedies.
They observed the tendency in our Western world to treat symptoms whilst ignoring the root cause of pain. Instead, they wished to treat (ahead of time!) with remedies from Mother Nature’s finest, traditional ingredients into a fun, enjoyable gummy and capsule formulation. Their vision of FLO and FLO PMS soon overflowed (pun, intended) into GOGO Fiber Gummies, MENO Menopause Vitamin Capsules, MOTO Metabolism Vitamin Capsules, RETRO Glowing Skin, GTFO Immunity Gummies, FLO Biotics Soft Chews, and Disco Women’s Multi. Holistically treating many needs a woman faces in her lifetime.
Overview of FLO Culture
FLO’s mission statement proclaims: “We make PMS gummy vitamins so everyone can feel their best, no matter what time of the month.” With a focus on empowering women through pain-free cycles and fostering a community (the “FLO community”) for women seeking to improve their cycles, gut health, and even for the wise goddesses who are facing menopause. FLO recognizes that there is power in a healing community.
An American-based corporation at its roots, FLO prides itself on promoting third-party tested, vitamin-dense, gelatin-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, soy-free, and all vegan sourced, non-GMO products in their gummy and capsule formulations. Leaving out artificial flavors, colors and dyes, FLO seeks for optimum quality, minus all the flash (although, we admit…the donut-shaped, naturally colored gummies are bound to tempt even the least compliant vitamin goers).
FLO aligns their manufacturing practices with FDA (Food & Drug Administration)-approved standards, ensuring transparent, ethically sourced, and regulated ingredients into each of their products. How do they uphold this reputation? FLO follows the Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMP). A standard birthed by the FDA to adopt consistent standard in the manufacturing of pharmaceuticals, many supplemental companies have held true to CGMP form to maintain their reputable transparency. This ensures not only quality procurement of ingredients, but continual regulation of formulation and laboratory testing to avoid dilution or hidden fillers that we, the earnest consumer, hope to avoid as we seek for optimum health. (2) What’s more, FLO maintains third-party testing to rule out any pesky bias or contamination in their products. Based on these standards alone, we appreciate their translucent manufacturing practices of FLO.
FLO Nutritional Benefits
Now, let’s get into the gooey goodness behind these donut-shaped and capsule entities. We liken an ingredient list as the sacred text to all the products we ever review, so without further ado, let’s educate ourselves on what is within FLO vitamins.
FLO PMS Gummies
As Brianna and Bobby’s first conceptual creation to alleviate PMS symptoms, FLO PMS gummy and vitamin formulations claim to alleviate bloating, cramps, acne, and those undulating mood changes that every female can attest. Containing only 20 calories, 3g of sugar, 5g of carbohydrates per serving, will a 30-day supply, FLO PMS costs under $1 per day—quite affordable for the potential outcome of pain-free cycles!
With 111mg and 86mg of proprietary blend (containing chasteberry, lemon balm, and angelica root), in the gummy and capsule formulations, respectively, FLO PMS is bound to offer some herbal healing remedies. But what makes FLO PMS so?
Chasteberry
Known as Vitex agnus-castus, this herbal powerhouse is known to down-regulate and smoothen mood, ease breast tenderness, and improve fertility. In fact, Plato himself acclaimed chasteberry as a mood stabilizer and aphrodisiac—as earlier at 450 BC! That’s some strong credibility for this berry originating from Western Asia and parts of Europe. (3) In fact, the German Commission E (the United States’ version of the FDA) legally endorses practicing gynecologists to prescribe Chasteberry as the primary treatment for premenstrual symptoms for their patients—perhaps the US could learn a thing or two from the German gynecologists. (3)
How does it work in the body? Well, chasteberry has been found to block a certain opioid receptor (called, “mu opioid”) that prevents the neuronal feedback of pain perception in our brain. It’s even postulated that chasteberry acts on a region of our brain called the hypothalamus to upregulate hormonal production of estrogen and progesterone—essential for a successful, balanced menstrual cycle’s synchronicity at its finest! (3)
With a recommended dose of 30-40mg per day, FLO PMS likely meets that quota in their proprietary blend of 111mg and 86mg in their gummy and capsule formulation. While a proprietary blend merely states the totality of all ingredients, we can assume, along with the 3600+ positive reviews, the there is a therapeutic dosage of chasteberry included. (3)
Lemon Balm
Known in the herbal world as Melissa officinalis, this flowering plant is cousin to the mint family. Recognized as early as the 1400s to relieve anxiety, heal wounds, and reduce internal inflammation, lemon balm is a veteran in holistic healing. Acting through GABA receptors (receptors that help calm and downregulate our nervous system), it’s no wonder FLO integrated it as a key player in its formulations. (4)
Angelica Root
Known as Danggui, is an ancient Chinese herb known to improve gastrointestinal function via reduction of gaseous bloating; hence, it’s added benefit during menstruation. (6) It’s mechanism? Angelica root has muscle-stimulant properties in the uterus, aiding in the process of that monthly shedding. (7)
MENO Menopause Vitamin Capsules
What about the ladies who are suffering non-PMS related symptoms, but menopause instead? FLO has got you covered, wise souls. FLO Vitamins has created the MENO Menopause Vitamin Capsules. Containing a trifecta of essential vitamins, ashwagandha, chasteberry, and black cohosh, these capsules are found to alleviate the horrid hot flashes, mood changes, insomnia, and lethargy. (1)
Ashwagandha
This ayurvedic remedy has stood the test of times. An herb known to ward off anxiety, promote neuronal regeneration, and mood stabilization via cortisol control during acute stress episodes, it is no wonder that this essential herb is included in these MENO vitamins. (8,9)
Chasteberry
Just as in the PMS FLO gummies, this superfood berry acting to regulate our nervous system whilst promoting hormone (estrogen and progesterone) balance throughout a woman’s cycle. (3)
Black Cohosh
This power-packed tincture was a hot commodity in my household growing up. A necessary staple that “kept the peace” as my father would say as my mother neared a new dawn of menopause. Known as Actaea racemose, a root paying homage to North America, black cohosh is thought to improve diminishing estrogen levels that occur during menopause by acting on the pituitary gland to decrease a particular hormone, called luteinizing hormone (LH) known to be high during menopause, resulting in the discomforting symptoms. (10)
RETRO Glowing Skin Gummies
Sometimes skip your skincare routine but still wish to have glowing skin? Why not take something from the inside out to protect your gentle dermis from the harsh UV light exposures we are exposed to on the daily.
Astareal® Astaxanthin
Astaxanthin, a naturally sourced carotenoid made by algae, bacteria, and microorganisms, can also be thought of as the red “dye”, if you will, that makes shrimp, salmon, and crayfish that orangey-pink hue. When it comes to human consumption, this pink powerhouse is sourced from the algae, Haematococcus pluvialis. So why is it in FLO’s RETRO vitamin? Astaxanthin is known for its antioxidant and photoprotective properties along the dermal layer of your skin. (11) In fact, it’s more bioactive than B-carotene which we all know to have extremely beneficial properties for your eyesight through its unique molecular structure that “steals” those nasty free radicals that cause aging and cancer in our dermal cells. (11)
Bamboo Extract
Did you know that some of the most effective sunscreens to date are bamboo-extract sunscreens? So why not ingest some to help protect you from the inside out? Bamboo is a natural antioxidant, photoprotectant, and has the added benefit of antibacterial properties. A stellar trifecta. (12) What’s more, bamboo is known to reduce the production of melanin in the dermal layer of your skin—reducing those sunspots as your creep into your wiser years. (12)
Hibiscus Extract
A personal favorite—from it’s stunning red in nature, to its yummy taste in tea, hibiscus extract has been known to reduce pore size, reduce oil production (particularly excess oil production), and reduce inflammation and, thereby, lessening redness that some may experience on their facial skin. (13) A study by Martino et al found that hibiscus extract administered daily, increased fibronectin by 16% and collagen by 60% in cultured cells—suggesting a true medicinal benefit that combats aging and environmental damage to our dermal cells. (14)
Vitamin E
You likely know this by heart, but vitamin E posses its well-known antioxidant properties that gather and discard free radicals that cause dermal damage leading to signs of aging and potential cancer. (15)
Vitamin C: Also, a potent fighter of free radicals, vitamin C plays an essential role in collagen production as well as immune efficacy. Plus, a bonus! Vitamin C aids turning cholesterol into bile for proper regulation of our cholesterol levels. Why not get an additional benefit into your skincare regiment? After all, it’s all about the holistic approach. (16)
GOGO Prebiotic Gummy
Let’s talk about staying on the regular—regular bowel movements, that is. It’s easier said than done. Over 25 million people in the US deal with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) resulting in irregular bowel movements such as fluctuating constipation and diarrhea, gastrointestinal pain, flatulence, and bloating. Even more 2 out of 3 individuals that experience IBS in their lifetime are female. (17) Containing only 15 calories, 2g of sugar, 5g of carbohydrates per serving, GOGO comes in gummy and powder formulation in a 30-day supply. So, what makes GOGO help you stay regular with ease?
Chicory Root Fiber: When it comes to fiber, we think of eating leavy greens and big apples. But sometimes, we need something more attainable if we’re on the go. Chicory root is composed of 68% of inulin fiber—a polysaccharide that helps get food moving and groovin’ in our large intestines by drawing water into our intestines. (18) What’s more, chicory is viable source of essential amino acids and contains essential minerals such as zinc and magnesium! (18)
Psyllium Husk: If you’re more of a powder formulation kind of soul, you can throw GOGO Powder Blend into your coffee or favorite. This tasteless prebiotic fiber, originating from the Plantago ovata plant, is a fiber source that turns into a gel within the large intestine—aiding the ease of waste passage. (19)
Bacillus Coagulans: A vital probiotic shown to maintain the healthy gut microbiome in your gut, which has been suggested to have direct causation in overall gut health and your immune system—a dual effect. (20)
FLO-Biotics Gummy
You can get the added benefits of prebiotic with FLO’s GOGO Prebiotic Gummy/Powder, but what about maintaining the true homeostasis with probiotics? FLO Biotics offers travel-friendly, summer berry-flavored chews that you can take on the go wherever you and your gut may roam. Only 20 calories per serving, 4g of carbohydrates and a mere 1g of sugar, you can feel confident you’re adding healthy bacteria without overloading in consumed sugar.
Bacillus Coagulans: Packed with 500mg (5 billion CFUs), B. Coagulans is one of the superstars of the probiotic field. While probiotics are essential, most consumers are not aware that most probiotics that make it to the gastrointestinal tract that having remaining effects only ranges from 1-15% of the consumed probiotic. So, what make B. coagulans and its counterparts a rarity? It’s spore-forming! May sound gross, but this is essential to survive our body’s internal temperature—ensuring maximum benefit for your gut. Kuddos, FLO team, for doing your gut health homework! (21)
MOTO Metabolism Booster
Listen, we all know how much stress (resulting in elevated cortisol levels) affects our metabolic rate. Yet, we all know that diet fads are merely temporary forms of torture that are metabolically and scientifically ineffective. But can we support our metabolism in a way that Mother Nature intended? Yes! Hello, MOTO from FLO. Packed with metabolic-boosting ingredients in a 1 or 2-month supply, you can finally feel good about supporting your metabolism—not abusing it.
EGCG: EGCG is short for (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (thank goodness there’s an abbreviation for that!). EGCG is an extracted polyphenol from green tea. Studies in mice and healthy humans have demonstrated improved glucose metabolism in the presence of daily consumption of green tea. With such benefits, green tea is postulated to reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome (diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and cardiac disease). In fact, a study demonstrated that daily consumption of green tea was shown to increase energy output by 4.6%. (22) A powerful molecule provided by nature that is bound to add benefit to your daily supplement routine. (22)
Chromium Picolinate: This powerhouse of a mineral can be thought as the “fuel” for insulin. Meaning, it increases the efficacy of insulin in our body to help manage the glucose in our bodies (preventing potential diabetes). This, in synergy with EGCG, suggest an added benefit to regulate energy levels throughout the day. (23)
Black Cumin Seed Extract: In addition to it’s antiinflammatory and antioxidant benefits, black cumin seed (Nigella sativa), has demonstrated significant evidence for antidiabetic properties by increasing efficacy of insulin, maintain leveled glucose levels throughout the day (avoiding those scary sugar crashes and sporadic hungers) and leveling off blood cholesterol levels. (24)
DISCOS Women’s Multivitamin
Ashwagandha & Rodiola: These naturally-sourced adaptogens are known to help manage stress by modifying the effects of cortisol in response to acute stress. Rhodiola has known to increase energy levels, focus, manage mood throughout the day. Combined with ashwagandhas stress-modulating properties, this is a powerful synergistic duo. (25)
DHA: Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid that promotes cardiovascular, retinal, and blood vessel health. (26)
Folate: Essential for red blood cell regeneration and DNA production. Plus, for any ladies in a point in life trying to create another life (congrats!), maintaining above-average levels of folate up to 3 months prior to conception will ensure proper neuronal regeneration during fetal development.
Biotin: Naturally found in salmon, avocado, cooked eggs, biotin is an essential cofactor for numerous chemical reactions in our body. Studies suggest biotin ingestion can help promote hair growth, reduce thinning, and improve skin elasticity. (27)
GTFO Immunity Gummy
Immunity supplementation has hit the markets hard within the past 2 years. But how do you know if you’re receiving adequate levels of immune-boosting ingredients? FLO has got you covered. Coming in a natural lemon berry taste, GTFO Vitamin Gummies are bound to keep you bolstered no matter how under the weather your immune system may become. Only 20 calories per serving with 4g of sugar, let’s explore why these have been an immunity rave.
Elderberry: Elderberry (Sambucus nigra), has been known to not only improve activation of the immune system when fighting a pathogen, but also to increase the rate of antibody production and T cell production to ward off viral infection. (28)
Zinc: A key component of our immune system’s response, zinc acts to promote a particular cell in our body called “Natural Killer (NK)” cells and macrophages to ward off viral pathogens—keeping that immune system boosted and supported. (29)
Vitamin C: A potent immunological booster and antioxidant that promoted immunity and, as seen in the RETRO Skin Vitamins, collagen support for healthy skin. (13)
What Do Customers Think?
We went over the ingredients so you, the informed consumer, can decide if this is something you feel confident about integrating into your daily holistic regiment. But what about those that have gone before you?
Who have bought FLO’s products and now share their experiences. With over 3600+ verified customer reviews on their website, we noticed that FLO came in at an average of 4 stars or more on each of their products!
Let’s take a look at what some say.
“Life Saver. I’ve been blessed with an easy cycle, until perimenopause happened. The acne. Mood swings. Breast tenderness. Fibroids. All of it manageable with Flo once a day. Sometimes life gets busy and I miss a week and I’m starkly reminded how amazing this supplement is. Totally worth it. Thank you.”
It’s incredible to hear of women who are seeking to support their health and find a true remedy that alleviates even the most painful fibroids and changing courses of hormones throughout a woman’s life.
Another customer raves,
“I have been taking for two months and it’s helped cut back my bad mood, my acne, bloating, and the heaviness and length of my periods!”
Sounds like FLO PMS Gummies have stood the test of reducing fluctuant moods, bloating, and even, for this one lucky customer, regulate the duration of her flow.
One customer writes a recent change in her skincare routine all because she recently began taking RETRO Skin Gummies:
“These have completely changed my skincare routine. I used to spend hours in the morning with 20 products and now I eat two of these and use about 5 products. Thank you!”
We’re all about healing from the inside out. Why not support your skin from within instead of externally? Besides, reducing your skincare routine means more money saved in the long run!
Another customer shares,
“I cannot recommend these enough, my skin texture has completely changed for the better. My pores are smaller and my face is glowing! Not to mention they taste like peach rings!”
Looks like that hibiscus extract might—indeed—be working to reduce pore size! Isn’t it amazing when Nature provides us with all the answers we need (minus the harmful chemicals and preservatives!)?
One customer who has been taking GOGO Prebiotic Fiber shares,
“I have IBS w/ constipation and the gogo gummies help a lot. Thank you for making my stomach feel better 😊”
It’s encouraging to know that those not only suffering from PMS are finding relief through FLO’s PMS vitamin line, but also women facing IBS on the daily. Whatever we can do to reduce suffering in humanity, one person at time, results in a rippling, beneficial effect.
The only mediocre reviews to make note of are those from individuals who deem the product to not have beneficial effects. That being said, we are all unique beings with different body types and, even, internal motivation to heal ourselves. Some of us stay vigilant on the daily with our supplements, while others do not. It’s always good to remember that it often takes more time to have notable changes when it comes to holistic, natural remedies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Take Them?
Take suggested serving up to 2-3 times per day. Chew the gummy well for optimal digestion or consume the capsule with water—with or without a meal. Why water? Water not only aids in ease of swallowing with the capsules but for a product like GOGO, it assists with bowel activation.
Do They Contain Gelatin?
Goodness, no. FLO prides themselves on remaining vegan in all ways.
Any Major Side Effects?
Of course, moderation is key. With a product like, GOGO Probiotic Chews, if you take too many, you may experience bloating, stomach gurgling, and some gastrointestinal discomfort.
How Long Will It Take to Notice an Effect?
The tortoise always wins the race. When it comes to naturopathic remedies, you might not notice, for example, a notable difference in your periods until 2-3 cycles. So don’t lose faith or begin to ponder if this is a marketing gimmick. You’re right on course—healing from the inside out.
What’s Better? Gummies or Capsules?
Thankfully, at FLO, the ingredients are all the same. Primarily, it’s all a preference to you! Check out FLO’s Blog on A Spotlight on FLO Vitamins for a little more insight on this gummy vs capsule debate.
What is FLO’s Return Policy?
FLO provides a 60-day trial on all their products. If you happen to be displeased with your order, FLO will happily align with you to refund you (minus the shipping cost) on the first two bottles that you purchase.
Where You Can Find FLO Vitamins
You can find all FLO’s products on their main, super rad, hippy-inspired website. You may also find some of their products on major wholesalers like Amazon and Walmart. Of course, we suggest you support this sister-brother duo team that set out to create a supportive culture for the feminine from their site directly. Why not return the favor?
Promotions, Discounts, & Subscriptions
FLO provides an initial discount code (GOFLO) for 10% off your very first order. Each product contains a subscription plan that reduces the cost of each bottle—all subscriptions are cancellable with no additional fee. On all subscription orders, you’ll receive free shipping. An easy way to save money and keep your wellness journey FLO-wing each month!
Have a gal pal that you wish to share the love with? FLO offers a Refer a Friend program! For every email referral, you send your gal pal $10 and whenever she spends, you’ll receive $10 off your next bottle. Share is caring.
If you are someone who likes to calculate cost per ounce or bottle as I do, FLO offers bundle packages where you can select and chose the quantity of your choice. If you like to have a hefty supply on your shelf (avoiding that dreaded potential of a supplier running out!), you can save up to 25% a 6-pack bundle or 22% on a 4-pack bundle and so on. More you, the more you save. You get the drift.
The Final Takeaway
By now, I hope you have a new takeaway on some incredibly sourced, scientifically backed natural ingredients that FLO prides itself on integrating into their wellness vitamins. Leaving no woman out, from young to wiser, and those ladies merely looking for a reliable (and yummy!) daily multivitamin or for that gym guru (we see you, babe!) who’s looking to optimize her metabolism, FLO has got your wellness needs covered.
Packaged in BPA-free, recyclable plastic bottles which house non-GMO, vegan, gluten-free, cruelty-free vitamins, all upheld by CGMP Regulations, you can feel incredible consuming a product that heals with true ethical standards. Why spend money on external, quick fix remedies when you can approach your wellness through a root cause approach–your body and wallet will thank you in the long run.
As a closing note for you men who endured this entire review and made it to this point, I applaud you. You, and cofounder of FLO, Bobby Bitton, share some admirable qualities as men who wish to support their female friends.
At some point, a PMS will influence your life and healing all begins with awareness and self-education. So, hats off to you. Your sister, gal pal, or neighbor will appreciate you taking time to educate yourself on some natural PMS remedies. It takes a tribe to heal, and FLO makes that possible for us all.
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