See below our recommended supplements (links to Amazon) and other items such as Epsom Salts. For general health maintenance we only recommend short term use of supplementation except B12 and perhaps Vitamin D in some scenarios (read my book), in most cases you can get fully nourished by food, the nutritional data in my book provides great information and evidence on this topic. However, specific disease and health conditions may affect a person to the degree that they may require supplements longer term. For this reason we have decided to list those that we recommend. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made from the links I provide.
GENERAL
B12 - This essential vitamin is involved in every biochemical and metabolic process in the body. It enables the body to form healthy red blood cells and to make DNA for new cells, it helps prevent fatigue as it assists the conversion of the food into energy. It is necessary for the normal functioning and development of the central nervous system and brain impacting cognitive functions including learning, memory, concentration and reasoning.
B12 (cyanocobalamin) supplements vary, so I suggest you take one that provides around 400 mcg per day. As you age you can increase your intake to 1000 mcg. Although cyanocobalamin has been used for many years and is proven to reverse B12 deficiencies it is a synthetic form of B12 and metabolism of B12 is dependent on various pathways in the body. Some people may find the more expensive active forms (methylcobalamin, adenosylcobalamin and hydroxycobalamin) more suitable. If you are concerned about your B12 levels then you should ask your GP for a test and speak with a nutritionist.
Manufactured within the UK in an FDA and MHRA approved facility for your highest level of safety, GMP certified and ISO accredited. A full years supply (365 Tablets - 1 Per Day).
No Artificial Colourings or Flavourings - In only reverse osmosis water. Manufactured in the UK in violet glass for maximum UV protection to prolong the life of your Vit B12.
Do get a blood test to check your iron levels before ordering/taking iron supplements. Too much iron in the body can be dangerous. One capsule provides: Iron (bisglycinate) 15mg Vitamin B12 (cyanobalamin) 50ug Folic acid 100ug Magnesium ascorbate 107mg Providing: Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) 100mg/Magnesium 7mg In a base of alfalfa, spirulina & bilberry. Gentle on digestive system
High in iodine, potassium, magnesium, iron, protein, fibre
Vitamin D3 (400iu) 10ug in a base of alfalfa. Suitable for vegans
A suitable dosage to maintain vitamin D levels during the darker months or for those working indoors and rarely receive sunshine. I must state here it's better and cheaper to receive some sunshine and eat plenty of mushrooms!!! (read my book)
Vitamin D3 (1000iu) 10ug in a base of alfalfa. Suitable for vegans
A suitable dosage to improve vitamin D levels if you have been tested and your result is the low side of good. Make sure you are also getting enough magnesium in your diet, to understand why this important read my book.
Vitamin D3 (2000iu) 10ug in a base of alfalfa. Suitable for vegans
A suitable dosage to improve vitamin D levels if you have been tested and your result very low/deficient . Make sure you are also getting enough magnesium in your diet, to understand why this important read my book.
1 Drop = 1000IU, can be mixed into water or juice.
A suitable dosage to improve vitamin D levels if you have been tested and your result is the low side of good. Make sure you are also getting enough magnesium in your diet, to understand why this important read my book.
ZINC - There are so many conditions that zinc contributes towards and there are also certain diseases such as Wilson's diseases where Zinc is used a a drug, in this case it would be without copper. The reason to take a zinc supplement is really down to whether you have seen a nutritionist or dietitian and had your intake assessed. If you eat a plant-based diet you may wish to aim higher than the daily recommended amount as some of the zinc you eat will bind with phytates and will not be absorbed. That being said many vegans can easily increase their intake by sprinkling Nutritional Yeast Flakes on meals, they are often a great source of zinc!
Zinc (picolinate) 15mg Copper (citrate) 1mg Natural beta carotene / carotenoid mix 900ug in a base of alfalfa, spirulina and bilberry.
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY SUPPLEMENTS
These supplements can often thin the blood, if you are on any medication, especially medication which also thins your blood please speak with your health practitioner before taking any of these.
Amla (also known as Indian Gooseberry) is one of the richest sources of antioxidants in the world. It is very rich in Vitamin C and also contains Tannins, Phosphorus, Iron, and Calcium. In studies it been shown to reduce blood glucose levels and cholesterol.
100 capsules x 400mg, No Fillers, suitable for Vegans
Boswellia has been used along side turmeric in studies to reduce inflammation for various conditions, one of these is Osteoarthritis. It is not an over-night cure and can take 6-8 weeks to take full effect. Recommended dosage is 2 capsules per day.
Studies
This nutritional product is enhanced with its own synergistic complex of botanicals and phytonutrient rich foods, called Magnifood. The MAGNIFOOD advantages: Providing synergistic enzymes and co-factors crucial to the utilization and functions of the product's nutrients. Helping to support the stability and activity of the product's nutrients.
Ginger may be helpful for mild nausea and vomiting associated with pregnancy, menstrual cramps and may contribute towards reduced pain in osteoarthritis.
Studies
High quality turmeric & curcumin supplement, no excipients. Turmeric root providing 95% curcuminoids - the highest concentration available. Contains black pepper extract to increase turmeric absorption.
Turmeric is very popular to combat many conditions including Osteoarthritis, High blood fats, Liver disease and even mental health and you can certainly find evidence for these conditions and much more in published medical literature. Not all evidence is convincing but it's not hard to include more turmeric in your diet and some people find the supplement very effective. It is not an over-night cure and can take 6-8 weeks to take full effect.
Studies
Nattokinase is an enzyme (a protein that speeds up biochemical reactions) that is extracted from a popular Japanese food called natto. Natto is boiled soybeans that have been fermented with a bacterium called Bacillus natto. It may benefit those with heart disease and high choleseterol. Recommended dosage is 1 to 2 capsules per day.
Studies
DIGESTION
INTERACTIONS/CONTRAINDICATIONS
Check with your GP or health practitioner before taking. Do not take if you have peptic ulcer disease. Do not empty the capsules into food or drink as the contents can irritate sensitive tissue and be corrosive to teeth. Only take with a meal of sufficient size, around 500 calories or more.
Studies
SKIN/SLEEP/STRESS
POWERFUL & NATURAL - ICEHERBS Sleep consists of Magnolia bark & Iceland Moss. Magnolia bark contains natural, bioactive compounds which are potent and effective to help promote deep restorative sleep, stress-reduction, memory protection & mental health. Iceland moss has many antiviral properties. It is rich in minerals, particularly iron and calcium and is used in treatments of infections and digestive disturbances.
Magnolia bark may assist with anxiety and depression, sleep, stress reduction, weight management, memory protection, and brain health. It has also been shown to have strong anti-cancer properties. Capsules are vegan friendly, with no additives and are never tested on animals.
Studies
Generally used by very active people or those experiencing cramps or aching muscles. It may also help you to sleep and improve skin health.. Magnesium may be absorbed via the skin (transdermal), this requires good saturation so we recommend buying Epsom Salts in a large bag, it is much cheaper this way and you could also share with friends. Use about 1kg for a bath and 200g for a foot soak.
Studies: Can magnesium be absorbed via the skin?
There are very few studies on this, there are critics, lots of anecdotes and money to further confuse. However the below study suggests that dermal absorption of magnesium may occur but we need more and better studies to prove this.
Studies
HERBal TINCTURES
We order these from specialist suppliers. We use them for a variety of reasons and have found some to work wonders especially with cardiovascular and digestive disorders, plus urinary health. However herbs can also produce side effects and therefore we don't just sell to everyone. Please send us a message if you would like us to recommend herbs, please include any health issues and a list of any other supplements or medications you are taking. We can then provide you with information, a risk assessment and information on placing an order.