A dietary supplement is a product that contains nutrients (vitamins, minerals, amino acids, enzymes, herbs, etc.) that can be added to the regular diet. Dietary supplements are available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, powders, or liquid forms.

The reasons for taking supplements can vary depending on individual needs and circumstances. Here are some possible reasons for taking supplements:

1. Nutrient Deficiencies: Supplements can be helpful in filling nutrient deficiencies in your diet. If you are not getting adequate amounts of certain nutrients through the foods you eat, supplements can be a way to ensure you are getting what you need.
2. Special dietary restrictions: Some people, such as vegetarians or vegans, may need supplements to compensate for nutrients that are more limited in their diet. For example, vegetarians may need supplements of vitamin B12, which is found mainly in animal products.
3. Health conditions: Certain health conditions can lead to increased needs for certain nutrients. For example, pregnant women may take supplements containing folic acid to support fetal development, or people with iron deficiency may take iron supplements to increase blood iron levels.
4. Sports and exercise: Some athletes and active individuals may take supplements to improve performance, increase muscle mass, speed recovery, or maintain energy levels.

It is important to note that supplements should not replace a balanced diet. The food you eat should be the main source of the nutrients you need. Before you start taking supplements, it is a good idea to consult a healthcare professional or nutritionist to ensure that you are taking the right type and amount of supplements to suit your individual needs.

Made for professionals
Fourfive Nutrition products are carefully thought out and designed by Dr. Elisabeth Philipps , clinical neuroscientist and nutritionist with expert user knowledge from former professional athlete George Kruis . Our entire range is tested and approved by Informed Sport , giving everyone an extra peace of mind. View the certification here.

Optimal absorption and bioavailability
Bioavailability is defined as the proportion of a nutrient (in food or supplements) that is digested and absorbed in the intestines and available for biological activity. Organic mineral carriers such as citrates found in the Fourfive Nutrition range are absorbed up to 27% better compared to inorganic mineral carriers such as oxides and carbonates.

100% Natural ingredients
Every ingredient and final product is tested for potency and purity and independently batch tested for banned substances by Informed Sport. We work closely with the manufacturing process in a state-of-the-art facility in the UK and are involved from the selection of
raw materials for product encapsulation, packaging and labeling.

Fillers are inactive substances that some companies use in dietary supplements to add bulk, stabilize the product, or aid in the manufacturing process. They can be in the form of powder, fiber, cellulose, gelatin, lime, starch, or other materials. Fillers can also be used to bind ingredients together in tablets or capsules, preventing the body from absorbing all the nutrients in the supplement.

The reasons why one should be careful with fillers in dietary supplements are:

1. Reduced nutritional value: Fillers do not provide any significant nutritional value on their own. If the supplement contains large amounts of fillers, it may result in the amount of actual nutrients being reduced compared to what is stated on the label. This may limit the potential health benefits you may get from the supplement.
2. Potential allergens: Some fillers may be allergenic to certain individuals. For example, gelatin used as a filler in capsules may be of animal origin and may trigger allergic reactions in people with gelatin allergies. It is therefore important to check the ingredient list carefully if you have known allergies or intolerances.
3. Potential side effects : Some fillers can cause side effects in some individuals. For example, certain types of fillers used in tablets and capsules, such as magnesium stearate or silicon dioxide, can irritate the digestive system and cause adverse reactions such as bloating or diarrhea.
4. Quality concerns: Supplements that contain large amounts of fillers may appear to be purer or more potent than they actually are. Consumers may find that they do not get the expected effects of the supplement due to high levels of fillers in the product.

To avoid fillers in supplements, you can:

• Read the ingredient list carefully and avoid products that have a high number of fillers listed.
• Choose supplements from reliable manufacturers that have a good reputation and high quality standards.
• Talk to a healthcare professional or nutritionist for recommendations on supplements without unnecessary fillers.
• Look for supplements that are Informed Sport tested.

Remember that supplements should be taken with caution, and it's always best to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements or making any major changes to your diet.

Bioavailability refers to how well a substance can be absorbed and utilized by the body after ingestion. It is a measurement of how much of a supplement actually becomes available for the body to use and how efficiently it is absorbed.

Bioavailability is important for dietary supplements for several reasons:

1. Effectiveness: If a dietary supplement has low bioavailability, it means that the body cannot utilize the nutrients sufficiently. This may result in the dietary supplement not providing the desired health benefits or effects. High bioavailability ensures that the body gets maximum benefit from the supplement.
2. Optimal Dosage: Knowing the bioavailability of a dietary supplement can help determine the correct dosage. If bioavailability is low, a higher dose may be needed to achieve the desired effect. On the other hand, high bioavailability may mean that a lower dose is sufficient.
3. Cost-effectiveness: Supplements with high bioavailability offer better value for money. When the nutrients in a supplement can be absorbed efficiently, you don't need to take large amounts or frequent doses to achieve the desired effect. This can help reduce costs over time.
4. Individual needs: People have different levels of bioavailability for different nutrients. Some people may have a reduced ability to absorb or utilize certain nutrients due to genetics, age, health conditions, or medications they are taking. Understanding bioavailability can help tailor supplements to individual needs.

To ensure optimal bioavailability of supplements, it is wise to choose quality products from trusted manufacturers and follow the instructions for use for proper intake. In some cases, it may also be helpful to combine supplements with food or other nutrients that can enhance absorption. However, it is important to note that bioavailability can be complex and influenced by multiple factors, and therefore it may be wise to consult a healthcare professional or nutritionist for guidance based on individual needs.