Finding the best supplements to fit your unique needs can be overwhelming, especially for women who may be experiencing various changes in their bodies and are looking for effective and simple ways to optimise their health. Supplements can help bridge the nutrient gaps that can get missed from our diets and give us what our bodies need to stay healthy and vibrant. However, it's important to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure it's appropriate for you or any medication you may be on.
It's no secret that our bodies undergo many changes as we age, and these changes can impact how we process and absorb nutrients. This is why finding the right supplements that cater to our changing needs is a good idea. If you are plant-based, we have rounded up the best B12 supplements and products to meet your dietary needs. We have also listed supplements specifically targeted at women's health with the best menopause supplements. By understanding which nutrients our bodies require and choosing high-quality supplements, we can help ensure we're providing ourselves with the best possible support as we age gracefully.
Our nutritional requirements can change during periods of our life, and certain supplements may become more useful for maintaining overall health and wellness. With the right combination of vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients, women can continue to feel and look their best.
The best supplements at a glance:
• Best multivitamin: Wild Nutrition Food-Grown® Women's Daily Multi Nutrient - View on Wild Nutrition
• Best Vitamin D supplement: Nutri Advanced Vitamin D3 with K2 Liquid Drops - View on Amazon UK
• Best for joints and bones: Vitabiotics Osteocare Glucosamine and Chondroitin - View on Holland & Barrett
In this article, we will explore some of the best supplements specifically tailored for women to help support their health and vitality drawn from the expert advice from skincare pioneer, homoeopath, pharmacist and co-founder of The Organic Pharmacy, Margo Marrone. We also spoke to Shona Wilkinson, lead nutritionist at ethical nutrition and supplement brand, DR.VEGAN and Jess Shand, a women's naturopathic nutritionist. You can find all their expert advise below the best supplements list. From vitamins and minerals to powerful natural ingredients, here are the best supplements on the market that can help support your overall well-being and keep you feeling vibrant and healthy.
Disclaimer: Always talk to your GP before starting a new supplement regime.
The best supplements for your health and wellbeing
Best multivitamin
www.wildnutrition.com
Specifically targeting and supporting the needs of women, this award-winning multivitamin formula provides a full spectrum of vitamins, minerals and herbs for managing busy lifestyles. Wild Nutrition also has a Women's 45+ Daily Multi Nutrientto target the specific needs of women 45 and over. The supplement contains Zinc and Selenium to support your immune system, Vitamins B and C to reduce fatigue and Thiamin and Riboflavin, to support energy release in the body.
It contains magnesium and calcium to regulate the nervous system and beetroot and choline to aid with liver support. This is an excellent all-rounder as it supports and maintains healthy hormone cycles and energy and strengthens your immune system.
Customer review: "After back-to-back colds over the winter, I decided to invest in my health and bought the Women's Daily Nutrient. I've been taking the supplement for a couple of months, and not only have I not been ill, I've noticed a positive improvement in my sleep, energy and concentration! Really impressed and definitely think it's worth the monthly investment."
Pros
- A high-quality multivitamin that focuses on women's health
- Uses the Food-Grown® method for ingredients that mimic nature
- Bestselling and highly-rated product
Cons
- A large combination of ingredients may mean there's one or two that don't agree with sensitivities.
Quantity: | 60 capsules |
Vitamins and minerals: | Nutrient-enhanced Lactobacillus Bulgaricus (providing Magnesium, Zinc, Copper and Pantothenic acid), Lithothamnium Calcareum (Red algae) powder (providing Calcium), Nutrient- enhanced Yeast (providing Selenium, Iron, Inositol, Vitamin B6, Chromium GTF, Niacin, Manganese, Riboflavin, Choline, Biotin, Folic acid [as naturally occuring Folate], Thiamin, Molybdenum, Iodine, Vitamin K1, Vitamin B12 and Vitamin D3), Vegetable cellulose (capsule shell), Ashwagandha powder, Nutrient-enhanced Citrus pulp (providing Vitamin C and Bioflavonoids), Carrot concentrate (providing Beta-carotene), Beetroot powder, Nutrient enhanced Yellow Pea (Pisum Sativum) preparation (providing Vitamin E) and Alpha Lipoic acid. |
Allergens: | None |
Type: | Multivitamin capsule |
Best personalised multivitamin supplement
get-nourished.com
For those seeking a personalised approach to multivitamins, the Nourished Gummies offer an innovative solution. Through 3D printing technology, these custom-made supplement stacks are created based on your individual needs and health goals. By completing a quiz similar to an NHS questionnaire, you provide information about your lifestyle, exercise habits, and diet, allowing Nourished to determine the vitamins that best support your deficiencies and goals.
They are made with naturally-sourced, vegan ingredients from UK suppliers, and each stack consists of seven layers of nutrients. While the subscription service is recommended for optimal results, a monthly supply of personalised vitamins costs £39.99, with a reduced rate of £35.99 per month for subscribers receiving a delivery every four weeks. You can complete the quiz here to build your stack.
Pros
- Easy way to fill all your vitamin gaps in one supplement
- Gummies come in different flavours and are tasty and inviting
- Contains high-quality ingredients
- The packaging is entirely plastic-free
Cons
- Only targets two health areas
- Subscription service is quite pricey and sometimes unsustainable
Quantity: | 28 individually wrapped gummies (4-week supply) |
Vitamins and minerals: | 35 nourishments that are personalised to you |
Allergens: | None |
Type: | Multivitamin gummies |
Best vitamin D supplement
Unfortunately, our skin doesn't absorb enough Vitamin D from the sun with the UK climate, so Margo from The Organic Pharmacy advises supplementation for nearly everyone. Vitamin D3 is the most effective form of supplemental vitamin D since our skin naturally produces it in response to sunlight.
Nutri Advanced's 30ml D3 with K2 drops combine this essential vitamin with K2, which contributes to maintaining healthy bones. These orange-flavoured drops can be taken once or twice daily by applying three drops directly to the tongue or in water.
Our review: "I have been on quite the health journey and have seen many naturopaths. The most common consensus I have had from the consultations is that drops are the best way to absorb vitamin D and that the supplement should contain a D3 K2 combination. I was recommended this product by Nutri Advanced three years ago and have never looked back. I believe it has really increased my energy levels and strengthened my immune system."
Pros
- Liquid form transports well around the body
- Includes Vitamin D3 and K2 to ensure the best results
- Excellent value and long-lasting
Cons
- Some may prefer to take capsules
Quantity: | 30ml |
Vitamins and minerals: | Vitamin D3,Vitamin K2,Calcium,Vitamin D |
Allergens: | None |
Type: | 1000iu of vitamin D3 and 45mcg of vitamin K2 per 3 drops |
Best supplement for vitality
gherbal.com
Boosting vitality, immunity and decreasing inflammation, G Herbal's BODY supplement is an all-rounder to boost your health as well as your mood. Made from a blend of Indonesian herbs traditionally used in Jamu to support your overall well-being. G Herbal ingredients are cultivated in volcanic soils that act as natural fertilisers, rich in macronutrients and minerals. Simply take 2 capsules per day, one in the morning and one in the evening.
Our deputy digital editor Stephanie Spencer tried out G Herbal BODY supplements for herself, here’s how she got on: “I’ve been struggling lately with feeling sluggish and lethargic so was intrigued by this supplement. I liked the fact that it’s all-natural and boosts the immune system too, which is definitely a bonus going into winter. The tablets are tasteless and easy to swallow, I just kept the packet beside the kettle so I’d remember to take it daily. I definitely noticed a difference in my mood and I felt a lot more awake. I also noticed my muscles were aching less, I often struggle with a bad back from sitting at a desk and this was improved. As to the immunity boost, lots of people are getting colds at the moment and I seem to have avoided most of them!”
Pros
- Supports immunity, vitality and general health
- Monthly subscription is available
- Natural ingredients
Cons
- No larger packs available
Quantity: | 60 capsules |
Vitamins and minerals: | Vitamins A, C, B1, B2, carotene and niacin found in Centella asiatica along with the Vitamin B3, iron and potassium found in Noni |
Allergens: | None |
Type: | Capsules |
Best supplement for nerves and muscles
www.theorganicpharmacy.com
Margo's research at the Organic Pharmacy clinic found that nearly everyone is deficient in magnesium. This vital mineral deficiency can lead to insomnia, anxiety, and low energy. Their Magnesium Complex are high quality and are formulated with potent minerals such as magnesium, zinc, and calcium to support a balanced nervous system.
It also contributes to healthy muscles, strengthening your bones and immune system, making it an excellent all-around supplement for overall well-being. Magnesium also helps regulate nerve and muscle function, preventing muscle-related issues like spasms and twitches. If you're prone to leg cramps, supplementing with magnesium could be the solution.
Our review: "I take Magnesium every day without fail. It is magic for regulating my nerves and hormones. It is essential when treating all hormonal imbalance issues – including PMS, thyroid conditions, perimenopause, anxiety, and adrenal fatigue. I have also found that it helps control muscle spasms."
Pros
- High-quality ingredients
- The supplement complex is fortified with zinc and calcium for your bones and immune system
- Excellent for calming the body and nerves
Cons
- Contains bulking agent
Quantity: | 60 Capsules |
Vitamins and minerals: | Calcium Citrate, Magnesium Citrate, Zinc Citrate, Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol). |
Allergens: | None |
Type: | Magnesium Citrate |
Best supplement for pain relief and inflammation
Turmeric and ginger are powerful natural ingredients for managing pain and holistically taking care of your body. Nutrition Geeks' tablets are post-box friendly and use minimal plastic packaging for easy storage and for taking with you on the go - plus, they're small and easy to swallow.
In these supplement tablets, the turmeric is activated by black pepper, which aids in reducing inflammation and pain. Research indicates that turmeric can modulate the activation of T cells, B cells, and natural killer cells, enhancing the body's antibody responses. Additionally, ginger relieves upset stomachs and supports healthy digestion, making it a great all-rounder for anyone with digestion and bloating issues.
Our review: "These tablets have been a steady and consistent part of my routine over the last two years. Not only are they great for strengthening your immune system, but turmeric is a powerful antioxidant that supports digestion and helps with bloating and inflammation too. I find them particularly helpful when I am on holiday and indulging, and I feel as though my digestive system and metabolism could do with a little boost. I like this product in particular as it uses turmeric, black pepper and ginger which are all proven to do wonders in Ayurvedic medicine."
Pros
- Small tablets
- Anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing
- Suitable for travel
Cons
- It can stain your fingers
Quantity: | 120 |
Vitamins and minerals: | Turmeric (Curcuma Longa Root) Extract, Ginger Extract, Black Pepper (Piper Nigrum), Micro Crystalline Cellulose, Magnesium Stearate |
Allergens | None |
Type: | 2000mg tablets |
Best supplement for immunity
This zinc supplement is crafted to support your overall well-being and immune health. Each capsule delivers 15 mg of zinc, an essential mineral that plays a vital role in DNA synthesis, acid-base metabolism, maintaining normal testosterone levels in the blood, and promoting healthy fertility and reproduction. With a 60-day supply, the recommended dosage is one capsule daily, taken with a meal; otherwise, it can cause nausea.
The capsules are small and easy to swallow and are great to take daily or when you are starting to feel sick or under the weather. Zinc has an important role in supporting our immune system, as well as with the production of sex hormones such as testosterone which is often low in women at menopause.
Our review: "These capsules are small and therefore easy to swallow. Plus, they are absolute powerhouses when it comes to illness recovery. I usually take these zinc supplements with some vitamin C, and I find recovery from cold and flu speeds up rapidly. It's a good-value product that does what it says on the tin. Though be warned; you must take this with food as taking this on an empty stomach can cause nausea."
Pros
- Helps maintain healthy hair, skin, and nails
- Supports immune system function and cognitive performance
- It can help reduce the longevity of colds or illness
Cons
- If not taken with food, it can cause nausea
Quantity: | 60 capsules |
Vitamins and minerals: | Zinc |
Allergens: | None |
Type: | Capsule |
Best supplement for digestive health
www.symprove.com
Symprove, one of the top-rated probiotics, boasts a unique water-based formula containing four live bacterial strains. This distinctive feature sets it apart from other probiotics, as the water base prevents triggering digestion, allowing more live and active bacteria to survive the journey through the stomach for optimal gut colonisation.
With each 70ml serving, it delivers 10 billion bacteria to your gut. It is dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian-friendly, and FODMAP-friendly, making it suitable for everyone. Choose from three flavours – strawberry and raspberry, mango and passionfruit, or original – and take 70ml of the water-based probiotic 10 minutes before eating for optimal results.
Our review: "I have been taking Symprove for two years now, and it has become an essential part of my lifestyle and morning routine. In my personal experience, it has done wonders for my gut health. Although it is important to note that probiotics are not, a one size fits all. There are many different strains of probiotics, and this one was compatible with me. If you do not have the same results, do not be disheartened, as there will be one that matches your unique biology."
"Symprove recommends completing a 12-week programme to assess the full results. However, after four weeks, I felt more energetic, my visits to the bathroom were more regular and consistent, and I did not feel as bloated after eating meals. If you have food intolerances, IBS, or digestive issues, I highly recommend giving Symprove a go for those with more severe gut issues, individuals with food intolerances, or those who would like to try probiotics in liquid form rather than in a capsule."
Pros
- One of the best-rated probiotics on the market
- The liquid form has been known to have excellent results
- Allergen-free
- 12-week programme if you want to detox or counteract antibiotics
Cons
- The length of the programme means commitment
Quantity: | 4 x 500ml bottles (1 bottle a week) |
Key ingredients: | Extract of Germinated Barley, Sodium Citrate, Potassium Sorbate, Vitamin C |
Allergens: | Germinated barely extract |
Type: | Water-based probiotic |
Bacteria strains: | 10 Billion CFU from four unique strains of live and active bacteria called: L.rhamnosus, E.faecium, L.acidophilus, and L.plantarum. |
Best supplement for joints, skin and nails
Collagen has many benefits and is the body's most abundant protein, found in skin, cartilage and bones. Our collagen levels naturally decline as we age, which may affect skin elasticity and lead to visible signs of ageing. These award-winning blends from Ancient +Brave are clean and effective. The supplements are sustainably sourced, easy to use and offer targeted nutrition. If you don't eat meat or beef, then they also have a Marine Collagen powder too.
Also, technically speaking, vegan collagen does not exist as collagen is made from the boiling of bones and skin of cows, while marine collagen is made from the boiling of fish scales and bones. This Bovine Collagen is sustainably sourced from pasture-raised bovine from the EU, has no strong taste, is odourless and easy to add to hot or cold drinks or smoothies.
Our review: "This collagen is tasteless and easy to dissolve in any drink. The consistency is great, and is made from high-quality sources of protein made in Britain. They also have a coffee or cocoa collagen for those that would like it integrated into a drink."
Pros
- Clean ingredients made from grass-fed bovine collagen powder
- Tasteless and odourless
- The cows have been raised naturally without hormones, antibiotics, chemicals, or GMOs.
- 5000mg per Serving
Cons
- Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
Quantity: | 200g powder |
Vitamins and minerals: | Hydrolysed bovine collagen (100 per cent) |
Allergens: | Grass-fed bovine collagen (not suitable for vegetarians or vegans) |
Type: | Type I hydrolysed Bovine collagen peptides |
Best supplement for energy
drvegan.com
Taking a B-complex supplement could also help regulate stress hormones, as B vitamins are used as cofactors in detoxification, which plays an essential role in hormonal health. This UltraEnergy supplement from DR. VEGAN is a high-strength B Vitamin Complex providing sustained energy for your mind and body.
Studies indicate that B vitamins help prevent and help harmonise brain neurotransmitters - Riboflavin activates Vitamin B6, which in turn is used to create serotonin - your happiness hormone. Low serotonin levels can lead to depression, anxiety, headaches and overeating. So don't underestimate the power of B vitamins - especially if you follow a plant-based diet.
Customer review: "I feel my energy levels have risen since taking these, and I'm sleeping much better, too, I didn't know they'd help with sleep, but they do."
Pros
- Good general vegan multivitamin
- It uses a small amount of packaging
- No microplastics in the casing of the capsules
- Excellent for supporting stress levels in the body
Cons
- Monitor your RDAs if taking other supplements containing one or more of the ones in here
Quantity: | 30 Capsules |
Vitamins and minerals: | Vitamin B1 (Thiamin Hydrochloride), Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid), Choline Bitartrate, Niacin (Nicotinamide), Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin), Inositol, Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine Hydrochloride), Folate (Calcium-L-Methylfolate), Vitamin B12 (Methylcobalamin), Biotin, Dandelion Leaf powder (<em>Taraxacum officinale</em>), Capsule Shell (Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose). |
Allergens: | None |
Type: | Capsule |
Best supplement for anaemia and iron deficiency
These powerful iron tablets are gentle on your stomach, fast-acting, and support overall blood health while being easy to digest. If you've been prescribed ferrous fumarate for anaemia and suffer from side effects like constipation, dark stools, bloating, or nausea, then NaturesPlus HemaPlex Capsules are your perfect solution.
The formula contains a type of iron designed to treat and prevent iron deficiency anaemia, with a potent blend of 43mg of elemental iron. Additionally, it features a mix of vitamin C, B12, and zinc to support metabolic functions and prevent constipation.
Customer review: "Love the slow release aspect of the product along with the various other vitamins - definitely beneficial!"
Pros
- It contains ferrous fumarate, an ingredient used to prevent iron deficiency anaemia
- A strong dose of iron yet gentle on the stomach compared to some NHS iron prescription
- It contains vitamin C for constipation relief
Cons
- It is a large tablet which can be more challenging to swallow for some
Quantity: | 60 capsules |
Vitamins and minerals: | Key ingredients: Chelated iron, methylated vitamin Bs, vitamin C, botanical blend rich in bioflavonoids |
Allergens: | None |
Type: | 43mg Capsules |
Best supplement to support sleep
lifearmour.co.uk
If you struggle with sleeping and are looking for a natural solution - these award-winning, all-natural sleep drops from Life Armour are a fantastic way to calm your mind and help you drift off to sleep. The liquid formula is ideal for those with racing thoughts at bedtime and includes soothing ingredients like Passion Flower, Chamomile, Lavender, Valerian root, and Vitamin B6.
Passion Flowers are known for enhancing sleep quality and promoting healthy sleep patterns, while chamomile's essential oils help relax the body and activate the parasympathetic nervous system. Valerian root offers remarkable calming effects, helping those battling insomnia or anxiety, and of course, lavender is included to lull you to sleep.
Customer review: "Really like this, it seems to be helping me sleep; I try and take it about half an hour before bed, just half a pipette under the tongue."
Pros
- Liquid formula with potent sleep-inducing ingredients
- All-natural and no micro-plastics
- Tastes nice
Cons
- It may not last long if you use it every night
Quantity: | 30ml |
Vitamins and minerals: | Passionflower, Chamomile, Lavender, Zizyphus, Valerian root, Montmorency cherry, Vitamin B6 |
Allergens: | None |
Type: | Liquid food supplement |
Best supplement for brain health
www.yourheights.com
Nurturing your brain is important for overall well-being, as it influences your mental and physical health. Heights Smart Brain Supplement is an exceptional, high-quality, highly-rated product featuring 20 powerful vitamins, minerals, and fats (including vitamin D, C, B12, omega 3, and 15 others) in the precise amounts proven to make a real impact.
Contrary to popular belief, it's not fish that produce omega 3, but algae. The omega 3 in Heights is sourced directly from algae, making it one of the few entirely plant-based brain supplements.
Our review: "Although I have not taken the supplement long enough to report the effects, I can speak to the quality. There are no micro-plastics in the capsule casing, allergens and fillers, caking agents or colourants - just pure brain food."
Pros
- Exceptionally highly rated with a 4.9/5 star rating on TrustPilot reviews
- One of the only brain supplements that are plant-based
- Very high-quality ingredients
Cons
- Again, if overlapping this with another multi-ingredient supplement, monitor your RDAs
Quantity: | 60 capsules |
Vitamins and minerals: | Formula of 20 vitamins and minerals, including vitamins D, C, B12, and omega 3. |
Allergens: | None |
Type: | Capsule |
Best supplement for anxiety
www.superdrug.com
Ashwagandha is a herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries to help relieve stress. The extract enables the body to adapt to environmental and psychological stresses and can be beneficial for calming nervous tension and aiding more peaceful sleep.
It has recently gained popularity as a remedy for stress and anxiety, sometimes known as winter cherry and Indian ginseng. These highly- absorbable ashwagandha supplements are produced using quality ingredients to help calm your body and mind and boost immunity.
Customer review: "Great product been using a while and has really helped."
Pros
- Great value
- High quality
- Aids with anxiety
Cons
- Some may not feel a difference
Quantity: | 30 tablets |
Vitamins and minerals: | Organic KSM-66® Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera whole root extract) |
Allergens: | None |
Type: | Capsule |
Best supplement to support menopause
www.hollandandbarrett.com
If you are looking for a natural remedy to support symptoms of menopause, these traditional herbal medicinal supplements from Holland & Barrett are used for the relief of symptoms including hot flushes, night sweats, slightly low mood and mild anxiety, based on traditional use only.
During menopause, finding the right balance of natural ingredients can make all the difference in managing symptoms and maintaining overall well-being. St. John's Wort, a key ingredient in these coated tablets, has been known to alleviate mood swings and feelings of anxiety commonly experienced during menopause.
Customer review: "Great product. Have been looking for a while for something that actually works. Best night's sleep in ages."
Pros
- Includes important vitamins and minerals for female hormonal health, such as iron, iodine and Magnesium.
- Clean organic ingredients
- Helps to relieve PMS symptoms
Cons
- Do not take St John's wort with antidepressants
- John's wort may interfere with reserpine's ability to treat high blood pressure and can interact with blood pressure medicines
Quantity: | 60 capsules |
Vitamins and minerals: | It contains more than 18 ingredients, such as Iron, Agnus Castus, Sea Buckthorn, Vitex, Selenium, Magnesium and Ashwagandha |
Allergens: | None |
Type: | Capsule |
Best supplements for bones and cartilage
www.hollandandbarrett.com
If you are looking for a supplement that mainly targets bone health - these Vitabiotics' Osteocare Glucosamine and Chondroitin tablets are designed as a bone health formula for maintaining healthy cartilage and connective tissues. This advanced formula contains calcium, magnesium, and zinc to contribute to normal bone maintenance.
Vitamin D supports calcium absorption by the body. The supplement also features vitamin C, which aids collagen formation for normal bone and cartilage function. This advanced formula offers great value by supporting both bone and cartilage health if you are looking to target that area.
Customer review: "As someone who has osteoporosis, these are helpful."
Pros
- Combines bone and cartilage health nutrients in one supplement complex
- It helps with regular collagen formation
- Has Vitamin D3, calcium, Magnesium and zinc that also help with immune health
Cons
- Tablets are very large
Quantity: | 60 Tablets |
Vitamins and minerals: | Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, Vitamin D3, Selenium, Copper, Manganese, Glucosamine Sulphate, Chondroitin sulphate, Ginger extract. |
Allergens: | None |
Type: | Tablet |
Buyer's guide to supplements
What are the benefits of supplements?
To understand why supplementation is valuable, we spoke to nutritionist expert and founder of Eat Nourish and Glow, Jess Shand. She shared the benefits of taking supplements and why a whole-food diet isn't always enough to cover nutrient gaps:
"Taking supplements is not designed to replace real food and is not a magic solution to better health," says Jess. "However, the bottom line is that sadly our food is not as nutrient-dense as we believe it to be and as it once was."
"This is due to a number of factors, including intense farming techniques, nutrient-depleted soil making it less fertile and the over-use of pesticides and fertilisers. There are also hormone-disrupting pesticides in our fruit and vegetables. Even when it comes to organic versions (which are better in terms of toxin exposure), they're still not quite as nutrient-dense as we'd expect them to be."
Jess also says that taking regular medication such as antibiotics or having a high-stress lifestyle can impact how effectively our bodies store, absorb and retain nutrients.
So do we need to take supplements? The general consensus is this: we may need supplements at different times of our lives and for different reasons. Everyone is biodiverse, and supplements are by no means a one-size fits all magical product. It takes time, effort, money and research to find the root cause of any illness, condition or health issue.
What are the most common vitamin deficiencies?
We spoke to skincare pioneer, homoeopath, pharmacist and co-founder of The Organic Pharmacy, Margo Marrone. She told us what supplements are most important for our general health; and what common vitamin deficiencies are most found at her clinics.
Margo tells us the most common deficiencies she has seen at her clinics are Magnesium, vitamin D and B vitamins.
"First of all, Magnesium nearly comes up for everyone. A lack of it can manifest in insomnia, anxiety and low energy," Margo says. "Second is generally vitamin D, mainly because we have relatively little sunlight in the UK, and most people wear an SPF daily. Finally, the B vitamins are so important for our nervous system and skin."
What supplements should you be taking every day?
"Even someone with a fantastic diet needs supplementation, but it really is on an individual basis," says Margo. "My findings throughout the years are a general supplement that promotes longevity and includes antioxidants are good."
"I also love a green-based formula that contains high potency greens such as barley grass, wheat grass, chlorella and spirulina which are very nutrient dense.
"Finally, an essential fatty acid such as a vegan DHA with B vitamins helps reduce inflammation. It really does vary, though. So it's important to know yourself and your body. Some may need Magnesium daily, others a probiotic daily and those with allergies Quercetin daily."
What vitamins and minerals are good to consider for perimenopausal and menopausal women?
To attain the full picture for our best supplement roundup - we talked to Shona Wilkinson, the lead nutritionist at the ethical nutrition and supplement brand, DR.VEGAN®. She explains to us that as menopause is a natural process, diagnosed when there is an absence of a menstrual period for 12 months and no other biological or physiological cause can be identified. The most common age bracket for the onset of menopausal symptoms is 46-50, and 47 is the average age for the onset of menopausal symptoms.
"The hormonal changes, in particular fluctuations and a decline of the sex hormones progesterone, oestrogen and testosterone, can result in symptoms ranging from depression and anxiety to poor memory and concentration," says Shona.
She also tells us that 25 per cent of women state that symptoms of perimenopause and menopause negatively impact their quality of life. To combat this and ensure your day-to-day well-being remains optimal. Here are Shona's recommendations on what to look for the following in your daily multivitamin and supplements:
Vitamin D
Perimenopause and menopause bring a steady reduction in oestrogen which, as you age, weakens your bones and increases the risk of osteoporosis. The ageing process also means that your skin begins to thin, making it more difficult for your body to synthesise Vitamin D levels when exposed to direct sunlight.
Shona suggests for menopausal women; that Vitamin D is widely considered to be one of the most important vitamins, as it plays a vital role in supporting your bone health, as well as rejuvenating and protecting the skin’s barrier. Find out what we recommend as the best vitamin D supplements.
Magnesium
As many as 60 per cent of menopausal women struggle with sleep issues. These range from sleep disturbances throughout the night to more serious health issues such as sleep apnoea and sleep-disordered breathing. Magnesium massively improves the quality of sleep, as well as easing the body into a greater state of relaxation thanks to its role in activating the parasympathetic nervous symptom.
Furthermore, perimenopause and menopause tend to lead to waves of ‘crashing fatigue’, as oestrogen levels drop suddenly and more frequently. Magnesium converts glucose into energy, boosting your metabolism and reducing tiredness and fatigue as it does so.
Zinc
Zinc is another vital nutrient for menopause. It's an important mineral that your body requires for the activity of over 300 enzymes. Zinc plays an essential role in supporting our immune system, as well as with the production of sex hormones such as testosterone which is often low in women at menopause. When testosterone is low, it can lead to loss of confidence, low mood, low libido and loss of muscle mass.
Vitamin A
Not only does vitamin A help to keep our immune system in check, helping us fight off infection and illness, it's also great for assisting our vision and keeping our skin healthy. While you should be able to source most of your vitamin A from food, a supplement might help if you find it hard to incorporate these foods into your daily diet.
What vitamins and minerals help support women's health in particular?
It is important to note that women should prioritise certain vitamins and minerals depending on their life stage. As mentioned above, whereas women during their menstrual cycle require a greater intake of iron, those who’ve reached menopause often lack vitamin D.
However, certain vitamins and minerals remain tried and true throughout these various life stages. Shona recommends that women look for a supplement which includes the following:
Vitamin C
Similar to vitamin A foods and benefits, Vitamin C can help protect cells and supporting the immune system, keeping your skin healthy and glowing and helping any wounds to heal. Vitamin C also greatly improves the body’s absorption of iron which is particularly important for women during their menstrual years, and both iron and vitamin C are essential for your body's energy metabolism.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12, also known as ‘The Energy Vitamin’, plays a vital role in a variety of reactions in our body, including the formation of red blood cells, DNA, and the normal functions of the nervous system. We're three times more likely to be deficient in Vitamin B12 after the age of 60, and women and those on plant-based diets of all ages are most likely to be affected by a deficiency.
Folic Acid
Folic Acid works alongside other B vitamins, supporting the conversion of carbohydrates into glucose which cells then use for energy. It also aids the creation of new cells, as well as the transportation of oxygen around the body. Folic Acid is also needed for the synthesis of some hormones, including ‘adrenaline’, and our happy hormone ‘serotonin’.
The Department of Health recommend women of reproductive age supplement 400mcg per day of folic acid since it helps reduce the risk of neural tube birth defects, such as spina bifida, in unborn babies. You do actually need more folate than this per day. However, it is expected you will get the rest from your diet.
Zinc
A good quality daily multivitamin should contain the recommended daily intake of Zinc. Zinc is required for the normal function of your immune and reproductive systems. It is involved in various metabolic pathways and is essential for cell division and growth, and repair of body tissue. Zinc supports collagen synthesis and also reduces inflammation in the skin, so also helps with conditions such as acne.
Meet the experts:
This article contains expert advice from homoeopath and co-founder of the Organic Pharmacy, Margo Marrone; Shona Wilkinson, the lead nutritionist at supplement brand DR.VEGAN and nutritionist expert and founder of Eat Nourish and Glow, Jess Shand. We've made sure to review and evaluate each supplement we have recommended with the help of expert professionals. Always speak with a healthcare professional before starting a new supplement regime. This will ensure that the supplement is appropriate to you, that you're taking the right dosage for your individual needs, and to ensure it doesn't interact with prescription or over-the-counter medications you may be taking.
Ellen Kinsey was a Senior Health and Wellness Product Writer and has been a part of Bauer Media since 2020. She has left to study Ayurveda in India to expand her knowledge and skills in the health and wellness field, where she plans to continue making journalistic contributions.