A white pill bottle, labelled ‘Se’ for selenium, against a light blue background.

Are Selenium Supplements Beneficial?

Are Selenium Supplements Beneficial? Selenium is an essential trace mineral, which means that the body requires it in small amounts to carry out vital biological functions.1 Most people can get enough selenium through a healthy, balanced diet. Rich sources include Brazil nuts, seafood, whole grains and certain meats.2 However, many factors can influence your selenium…

A man wearing clear-rimmed glasses takes a tablet with a glass of water.

Can Men Take Zinc Supplements?

Can Men Take Zinc Supplements? All essential nutrients are important for human health, whether you’re a man or a woman. But the effects of some nutrients may be more important for certain biological processes in men than in women, or vice versa. For instance, iodine is necessary for everyone because it supports the thyroid, while…

A woman in sports gear researches the ingredients of her food supplement on her laptop in the kitchen.

Are Food Supplements Safe?

Are Food Supplements Safe? If you’re thinking about making a change in your life to promote health and well-being, the last thing you want is to do something that’s ineffective or even dangerous. When it comes to adding new supplements to your daily health routine, it’s natural to have concerns about potential risks. Learning more…

A glass of water and a square piece of paper reading ‘Mg Magnesium’ beside a hand holding several small pills, all on a light blue background.

Can anyone take magnesium supplements?

Can anyone take magnesium supplements? Magnesium supplements are widely used to support overall health, including muscle function, bone strength and energy metabolism. However, not everyone can safely take them.  Each person’s health situation is unique, and what works for one individual may not be suitable for another. Understanding the factors that influence whether you can…

A tasty, home-cooked and nutrient-rich meal of salmon teriyaki rice with avocado and spinach.

Are supplements better than food?

Are supplements better than food? Many people turn to food supplements every day to support their health, yet questions remain about whether they really make a difference. Some people take supplements religiously, while others remain sceptical about whether these products provide meaningful benefits beyond what a balanced diet offers.  One reason for this uncertainty is…

Amber sea glass spells out ‘Vitamin D’ and an image of a sun on a beach next to a pair of pink heart-shaped sunglasses.

Can you take too much vitamin D?

Can you take too much vitamin D? If you’re thinking about starting a vitamin D supplement, you’re probably looking forward to experiencing the benefits. Many people use supplements to cover periods with low sun exposure, particularly during winter months in the UK, or if they’re unable to get outside enough to boost their levels naturally.   At…

A woman holds her abdomen in pain from a stomach ache, a possible side effect of vitamin B1.

Does vitamin B1 have side effects?

Does vitamin B1 have side effects? Starting any supplement often brings a mix of emotions along with it: the hope for benefits, yes,  but also concerns about whether there might be unwanted side effects. When you’re considering taking vitamin B1 (thiamine), it’s completely understandable to ask “What could go wrong?” This article outlines the possible…

A wooden spoon holding dozens of folic acid tablets, an excessive dose.

Can You Take Too Much Folic Acid?

Can You Take Too Much Folic Acid? Even the most beneficial nutrients can have unwanted effects if taken in excessive amounts. Folic acid, a water-soluble B vitamin, is vital for overall health, supporting red blood cell formation, DNA synthesis, mental health and, most famously, foetal development during pregnancy.¹  While folic acid supplementation is generally safe,…