15% off £25 OR 20% off £35

Code:XMAS
 

15% off £25 OR 20% off £35

Code:XMAS

OffersBoxing Day EventSave up to 1/2 Price3 for 2 Mix & MatchOutletIntroductory OfferBetter than 1/2 priceBuy 1 Get 1 Free2 for £5 Mix & MatchBuy one get one 1/2 priceBuy more save 10%Vitamins & SupplementsVitamins & Supplements Shop AllHair, Skin & NailsCollagen & SilicaMuscle Support & Joint PainDigestive HealthMagnesiumFunctional MushroomsVitaminsShop all VitaminsMultivitaminsVitamin AVitamin BVitamin CVitamin DVitamin EVitamin KVitamin DrinksMineralsShop all MineralsMagnesiumIronZincCalciumSeleniumChromiumSupplementsShop all SupplementsFibre SupplementsAcidophilus & Friendly BacteriaPeppermint OilGrapeseed ExtractLecithinCollagen & SilicaOmega & Fish OilsPlant Sourced SupplementsSuperfood SupplementsArnicaApple CiderRaspberry KetonesAloe VeraChondroitin & MSMCo Enzyme Q10Evening Primrose OilGarlicGinkgo BilobaGlucosamineGlucomannanSeaweed, Kelps and Aquaceuticals5 HTPDigestive EnzymesSaw palmettoCharcoalConditionShop all ConditionCholesterolAllergy & Hay Fever CareAnxiety SupportBone & Muscle HealthMuscle Support & Joint PainBrain & Memory SupportWomen's HealthMen's HealthChildren's HealthCold & Immune SupportFatigueDigestive HealthHair, Skin & NailsHeart & CirculationLiver CareMood SupportSexual HealthSleep & RelaxationStress ReliefVisionWomen's HealthShop all Women's HealthPerimenopauseMenopauseMenstrual SupportUrinary Tract HealthPregnancy & ConceptionMen's HealthShop all Men's HealthProstate HealthChildren's HealthCBD Vitamins & SupplementsShop all CBD Vitamins & SupplementsCBD OilCBD CapsulesCBD SprayCBD GummiesHerbal & Licensed RemediesShop all Herbal & Licensed RemediesRescue RemedyAshwagandhaMilk ThistleGinseng & GuaranaHomeopathic & Flower RemediesShop all Homeopathic & Flower RemediesRescue RemedyTissue SaltsFlower RemediesHomeopathic RemediesAt-Home TestsVegan Vitamins & SupplementsHolland & BarrettVitabioticsSolgarNew NordicWeledaBioglanGrass & Co.BetterYouNature's WayNatures AidBoxing Day Event3 for 2 Mix & MatchSave up to 1/2 PriceOutletBuy 1 Get 1 FreeIntroductory OfferShort DatedDairy FreeGluten FreeSesame Seed FreeCelery FreeCereal FreeCrustaceans FreeEgg FreeFish FreeKiwi FreeLupin FreeNew inFood & DrinkFood & Drink Shop AllDried Fruit, Nuts & SeedsShop all Dried Fruit, Nuts & SeedsDried FruitNutsSeedsMixesTeas, Coffee & Hot BeveragesShop all Teas, Coffee & Hot BeveragesCoffee & Coffee SubstitutesMushroom DrinksHot ChocolateTeasSuperfood TeasMatcha & Green TeaHerbal TeaPeppermint TeaSleep & RelaxationSlimming TeaWomen's Health TeasHoney, Jams & SpreadsShop all Honey, Jams & SpreadsManuka HoneyHoneyNut ButtersJams & ChutneysSyrupsSpreadsPateDrinks & JuicesShop all Drinks & JuicesMultipack DrinksJuices & Health ShotsNatural Energy DrinksCoconut WaterKombuchaCBD DrinksSoft DrinksWaterAlcohol Free DrinksProtein ShakesSuperfoodsShop all SuperfoodsSuperfood BlendsSupergreensMoringa PowderSpirulinaMaca PowderFlaxseedBaobabChia SeedsGoji BerriesGut HealthSnacksShop all SnacksSweet SnacksSavoury SnacksLow Calorie SnacksChocolateCrisps & ChipsCrackers & CrispbreadsBiscuits & CookiesSnack BarsFlapjacksLiquoricePopcornSweets & MintsChocolate Coated SnacksVegan FoodShop all Vegan FoodMeat-Free AlternativesDairy Free DrinksEgg SubstitutesVegan ProteinVegan Protein BarsFood CupboardShop all Food CupboardApple Cider VinegarCondiments & SaucesMeat-Free AlternativesSoup & Ready MealsRice, Pasta, Pulses & GrainsGravy, Broths & StockBreakfast CerealsShop all Breakfast CerealsCereals, Bran & FlakesGranolaMuesliOats & PorridgeBreakfast BarsCookingShop all CookingCooking IngredientsApple Cider VinegarCondiments & SaucesMeat-Free AlternativesSoup & Ready MealsRice, Pasta, Pulses & GrainsTinned FoodsHerbs, Spices & SeasoningGravy, Broths & StockHome BakingShop all Home BakingBaking IngredientsBaking MixesBreadFlourSweeteners & Sugar AlternativesEgg SubstitutesDairy Free DrinksShop all Dairy Free DrinksOat, Rice & Hemp DrinksSoya DrinksNut DrinksCoconut DrinksNutritionally Complete FoodCoconutHolland & BarrettNaturyaGrenadeHuelHeath & HeatherNakdPukkaTwiningsPerfectTedManuka DoctorBoxing Day EventSave up to 1/2 PriceIntroductory OfferBetter than 1/2 priceOutlet2 for £5 Mix & Match3 for 2 Mix & MatchBuy one get one 1/2 priceGluten FreeDairy FreeWheat FreeEgg FreeSugar FreeMilk FreeSoya FreeSesame Seed FreeCelery FreeFish FreeNew inSports NutritionSports Nutrition Shop AllProteinShop all ProteinWhey ProteinClear ProteinMass GainersVegan ProteinDiet ProteinCaseinSports SupplementsShop all Sports SupplementsTestosteroneElectrolytesEnergy GelsSports CollagenCreatineShop all CreatineCreatine PowderCreatine CapsulesBars, Drinks & SnacksShop all Bars, Drinks & SnacksEnergy BarsProtein BarsProtein ShakesProtein SnacksNutritionally Complete FoodMeal Replacement ShakesPre Workout & EnergyShop all Pre Workout & EnergyPre WorkoutCaffeine Free Pre WorkoutAmino Energy PowdersIntra WorkoutPost WorkoutKetoAmino AcidsShop all Amino AcidsAmino Energy PowdersBCAAL-LysineGlutamineCarnitineArginineVegan Sports NutritionShop all Vegan Sports NutritionVegan ProteinVegan Protein BarsVegan Pre Workout & EnergyVegan Amino AcidsVegan CreatineSports AccessoriesShop all Sports AccessoriesBottles & ShakersFitness EquipmentOptimum NutritionPrecision EngineeredUSNMyproteinApplied NutritionGrenadePhDHuelTriActiveSiSBoxing Day EventSave up to 1/2 Price3 for 2 Mix & MatchIntroductory OfferOutletBuy 1 Get 1 FreeGluten FreeDairy FreeSugar FreePalm Oil FreeSoya FreeCelery FreeCereal FreeCrustaceans FreeEgg FreeFish FreeNew inBeautyGiftsNatural Beauty Shop AllSkincareShop all SkincarePremium SkincareFace CareBody CareSun CareTanning & BronzingEye CareLip CareFoot CareHand & Nail CareSkin AilmentsSkin OilsCBD BeautyFace CareShop all Face CareCleanser & TonerFace MoisturiserFace Oil & SerumFace WashFace Exfoliators & ScrubsFace MasksHair CareShop all Hair CareShampoo & ConditionerHair ColouringHair MasksHair Oil & SerumHair Spray, Gel & MousseHair AccessoriesWashing & BathingShop all Washing & BathingShampoo & ConditionerBathing AccessoriesFeminine CareShower Gel & Body WashDeodorantDentalHand WashSoapBath Soak & OilBody ScrubBath Bombs & SaltsIncontinence SupportAromatherapy & HomeShop all Aromatherapy & HomePure Essential OilsBlended Essential OilsBase & Carrier OilsHolisticMother & BabyShop all Mother & BabyBaby Skincare & ToiletriesElectrical WellnessSexual WellnessDr OrganicFaith in NatureWeledaNaturtintTisserandMiaromaSukinQ+ATrilogyChilds Farm3 for 2 Mix & MatchBoxing Day EventSave up to 1/2 PriceOutletAlcohol FreeParfum FreePalm Oil FreeGluten FreeCelery FreeCereal FreeCrustaceans FreeDairy FreeEgg FreeFish FreeNew inChristmasCBDShop all CBDCBD Vitamins & SupplementsShop all CBD Vitamins & SupplementsCBD OilCBD CapsulesCBD SprayCBD GummiesCBD Food & DrinkCBD BeautyGrass & Co.TRIPCannaray CBDCBDfxfourfiveHolland & BarrettHolistic HerbReakiroBody & Mind BotanicalsLove HempBoxing Day EventSave up to 1/2 PriceOutlet3 for 2 Mix & MatchBuy 1 Get 1 FreeDairy FreeAlcohol FreeGluten FreeNew inWeight ManagementWeight Management Shop AllFat Burners, Binders & Appetite SuppressantsShop all Fat Burners, Binders & Appetite SuppressantsFat BurnersFat BindersAppetite SuppressantsSlimming TabletsWeight Management Shakes Shop all Weight Management Shakes Meal Replacement ShakesDiet ProteinDiet Food & DrinkShop all Diet Food & DrinkHealthier CookingLow Calorie SnacksSlimming TeasExercise SupportShop all Exercise SupportFitness EquipmentMeal Replacement ShakesDiet ProteinProtein BarsHolland & BarrettUSNEat WaterIdeal HealthNudie SnacksTrekBraggGrenadeNatures AidSlimExpertBoxing Day EventSave up to 1/2 PriceIntroductory Offer2 for £12 Mix & Match3 for 2 Mix & MatchOutletBuy 1 Get 1 FreeGluten FreeSugar FreeDairy FreeWheat FreeCelery FreeCereal FreeCrustaceans FreeEgg FreeFish FreeKiwi FreeNew inHealth & WellnessShop all Health & WellnessEnergyJoints Bones & MusclesGut HealthHair Skin & NailsStress AnxietySleep & RelaxationHolland & BarrettVitabioticsNaturtintWeledaSolgarOptimum NutritionDr OrganicBetterYouApplied NutritionNew NordicBoxing Day EventSave up to 1/2 Price3 for 2 Mix & MatchOutletIntroductory OfferBuy 1 Get 1 Free2 for £12 Mix & Match3 for £15 Mix & MatchDairy FreeGluten FreeAlcohol FreeSugar FreeWheat FreeSoya FreeSesame Seed FreeCelery FreeCereal FreeCrustaceans FreeNew inNew InBest SellersTrendingMedicines and HealthcareVeganShop for your WellnessGut HealthImmunityEnergySkincareWomen's HealthMenstrual HealthMenopauseJoints, Bones & MusclesHair, Skin & NailsSleep & RelaxationFood & DietChildren's HealthStress ReliefHealthy HeartLow Mood & DepressionConcentration & AlertnessEye HealthSexual HealthLearn about WellnessJoints, Bones & MusclesWomen's HealthPeriods & Cycle HealthMenopauseImmunityGut HealthFood & DietSports & FitnessSleep & RelaxationHair Skin & NailsArticlesAll articlesHealthFood & nutritionGut healthImmunityJoints, bones & musclesWomen's healthWellnessHair & skinMental wellbeingSeasonalSleep & relaxationSports nutritionRecipesAll recipesGluten freeLow sugarVeganDairy freePodcast

Minerals

165 items
Neuromind Plus 56 Tablets
33% Off
Vitabiotics
Neuromind Plus 56 Tablets
(94)
£13.66
£20.49
£0.24/1 Tablet
Osteocare Original 90 TabletsOsteocare Original 90 Tablets
33% Off
Vitabiotics
Osteocare Original 90 Tablets
(54)
£8.99
£13.49
£0.10/1 Tablet
Magnesium Citrate 90 TabletsMagnesium Citrate 90 TabletsMagnesium Citrate 90 Tablets
33% Off
Holland & Barrett
Magnesium Citrate 90 Tablets
(334)
£5.99
£8.99
£0.07/1 Tablet
Gentle Iron 20mg 90 Vegi CapsulesGentle Iron 20mg 90 Vegi CapsulesGentle Iron 20mg 90 Vegi Capsules
33% Off
Solgar
Gentle Iron 20mg 90 Vegi Capsules
(52)
£9.33
£14.00
£0.10/1 Capsules
Beauty Collagen 60 Strawberry GummiesBeauty Collagen 60 Strawberry Gummies
33% Off
Bioglan
Beauty Collagen 60 Strawberry Gummies
(106)
£14.66
£22.00
£0.24/1 Chewable
Perfectil Platinum Collagen Skin Drink 10x50ml
33% Off
Vitabiotics
Perfectil Platinum Collagen Skin Drink 10x50ml
(69)
£26.66
£39.99
£5.33/100 ml
Beauty Collagen 90 TabletsBeauty Collagen 90 Tablets
33% Off
Bioglan
Beauty Collagen 90 Tablets
(116)
£17.66
£26.50
£0.20/1 Tablet
Calcium + Vitamin D 600mg 60 TabletsCalcium + Vitamin D 600mg 60 TabletsCalcium + Vitamin D 600mg 60 TabletsCalcium + Vitamin D 600mg 60 Tablets
33% Off
Holland & Barrett
Calcium + Vitamin D 600mg 60 Tablets
(55)
£1.99
£2.99
£0.03/1 Tablet
Perfectil 30 Tablets
33% Off
Vitabiotics
Perfectil 30 Tablets
(139)
£4.32
£6.49
£0.14/1 Tablet
Perfectil Plus Hair 60 Tablets
33% Off
Vitabiotics
Perfectil Plus Hair 60 Tablets
(59)
£12.99
£19.49
£0.22/1 Tablet
Iron & Vitamin 84 Tablets
33% Off
Floradix
Iron & Vitamin 84 Tablets
(125)
£10.66
£15.99
£0.13/1 Tablet
Ultra Magnesium 60 TabletsUltra Magnesium 60 Tablets
33% Off
Vitabiotics
Ultra Magnesium 60 Tablets
(51)
£3.86
£5.79
£0.06/1 Tablet
Magnesium Sleep Spray 100ml
28% Off
BetterYou
Magnesium Sleep Spray 100ml
(168)
£9.99
£13.95
£9.99/100 ml
Pro-ven Biotics Adult Acidophilus & Bifidus 30 Capsules
33% Off
Pro-Ven
Pro-ven Biotics Adult Acidophilus & Bifidus 30 Capsules
(60)
£11.32
£16.99
£0.38/1 Capsules
Menopace Max 84 Tablets
33% Off
Vitabiotics
Menopace Max 84 Tablets
(67)
£17.32
£25.99
£0.21/1 Tablet
Magnesium Mineral Drink 250ml
33% Off
Floradix
Magnesium Mineral Drink 250ml
(85)
£9.99
£14.99
£4.00/100 ml
High Strength Effervescent Vit C & Zinc Blackcurrant Flavour 20 TabletsHigh Strength Effervescent Vit C & Zinc Blackcurrant Flavour 20 TabletsHigh Strength Effervescent Vit C & Zinc Blackcurrant Flavour 20 Tablets
33% Off
Holland & Barrett
High Strength Effervescent Vit C & Zinc Blackcurrant Flavour 20 Tablets
(132)
£2.32
£3.49
£0.12/1 Tablet
Original Natural Iron Supplement 28 x 20ml Sachets
33% Off
Spatone
Original Natural Iron Supplement 28 x 20ml Sachets
(93)
£10.00
£15.00
£1.79/100 g
Boost Daily Vitamins B12 Oral spray (25ml)Boost Daily Vitamins B12 Oral spray (25ml)Boost Daily Vitamins B12 Oral spray (25ml)Boost Daily Vitamins B12 Oral spray (25ml)
33% Off
BetterYou
Boost Daily Vitamins B12 Oral spray (25ml)
(319)
£8.30
£12.45
£33.20/100 ml
Chelated Magnesium 100 TabletsChelated Magnesium 100 TabletsChelated Magnesium 100 Tablets
33% Off
Solgar
Chelated Magnesium 100 Tablets
(48)
£10.33
£15.50
£0.10/1 Tablet
Kindervital Fruity Multivitamin Formula 250ml
33% Off
Floradix
Kindervital Fruity Multivitamin Formula 250ml
(76)
£9.66
£14.49
£3.86/100 ml
Floravital Herbal Iron and Vitamin Formula 250ml
33% Off
Floradix
Floravital Herbal Iron and Vitamin Formula 250ml
(111)
£9.99
£14.99
£4.00/100 ml
Fat Metaboliser 120 TabletsFat Metaboliser 120 TabletsFat Metaboliser 120 Tablets
18+
33% Off
Nutrition Headquarters
Fat Metaboliser 120 Tablets
(477)
£8.99
£13.49
£0.07/1 Tablet
Magnesium Oil Joint Spray 100mlMagnesium Oil Joint Spray 100ml
28% Off
BetterYou
Magnesium Oil Joint Spray 100ml
(73)
£9.99
£13.95
£9.99/100 ml
Osteocare Glucosamine and Chondroitin 60 TabletsOsteocare Glucosamine and Chondroitin 60 Tablets
33% Off
Vitabiotics
Osteocare Glucosamine and Chondroitin 60 Tablets
(46)
£9.99
£14.99
£0.17/1 Tablet
Zinc 15mg 120 TabletsZinc 15mg 120 TabletsZinc 15mg 120 TabletsZinc 15mg 120 Tablets
33% Off
Holland & Barrett
Zinc 15mg 120 Tablets
(305)
£4.59
£6.89
£0.04/1 Tablet
Magic Magnesium Malate 800mg 60 TabletsMagic Magnesium Malate 800mg 60 TabletsMagic Magnesium Malate 800mg 60 Tablets
33% Off
New Nordic
Magic Magnesium Malate 800mg 60 Tablets
(8)
£13.32
£19.99
£0.22/1 Tablet
Diabetone Original 30 Tablets
18+
33% Off
Vitabiotics
Diabetone Original 30 Tablets
(20)
£7.99
£11.99
£0.27/1 Tablet
Magnesium 375mg 30 TabletsMagnesium 375mg 30 TabletsMagnesium 375mg 30 TabletsMagnesium 375mg 30 Tablets
33% Off
Holland & Barrett
Magnesium 375mg 30 Tablets
(914)
£2.66
£3.99
£0.09/1 Tablet
Calcium & Vitamin D 60 GummiesCalcium & Vitamin D 60 GummiesCalcium & Vitamin D 60 Gummies
3 for 2 Mix & Match
Novomins
Calcium & Vitamin D 60 Gummies
(27)
£19.99
£0.33/1 Chewable
New In
Calcium Magnesium plus Zinc 250 Tablets
33% Off
Solgar
Calcium Magnesium plus Zinc 250 Tablets
(91)
£16.00
£24.00
£0.06/1 Tablet
Calcium Magnesium plus Zinc 100 Tablets
33% Off
Solgar
Calcium Magnesium plus Zinc 100 Tablets
(91)
£7.76
£11.65
£0.08/1 Tablet
Calcium + Magnesium & Vitamin D 180 TabletsCalcium + Magnesium & Vitamin D 180 TabletsCalcium + Magnesium & Vitamin D 180 TabletsCalcium + Magnesium & Vitamin D 180 Tablets
33% Off
Holland & Barrett
Calcium + Magnesium & Vitamin D 180 Tablets
(88)
£5.99
£8.99
£0.03/1 Tablet
Magnesium Oil Spray Original 100mlMagnesium Oil Spray Original 100ml
28% Off
BetterYou
Magnesium Oil Spray Original 100ml
(146)
£9.99
£13.95
£9.99/100 ml
Alive! Immune Support Soft Jell 60 TabletsAlive! Immune Support Soft Jell 60 TabletsAlive! Immune Support Soft Jell 60 Tablets
33% Off
Nature's Way
Alive! Immune Support Soft Jell 60 Tablets
(73)
£10.66
£15.99
£0.18/1 Chewable
Zinc Picolinate 22mg 100 TabletsZinc Picolinate 22mg 100 TabletsZinc Picolinate 22mg 100 TabletsZinc Picolinate 22mg 100 Tablets
33% Off
Solgar
Zinc Picolinate 22mg 100 Tablets
(42)
£7.96
£11.95
£0.08/1 Tablet
1 - 36 of 165 products

It is easy to take our bodies for granted and forget that they are actually very complex, requiring just the right balance of vitamins and minerals to support all the different types of cells.

 

We often assume we are getting the right nutrients from our diets alone – especially when we feel like we are in good health.

 

But if our diet is lacking in a certain area, over time we can become deficient in vital minerals.

 

If left unchecked, this can negatively affect our general health and wellbeing, since minerals affect everything in our body, from our skin and bones to our nervous system.

 

What are minerals?

 

The minerals we have in our bodies are:

  • Calcium
  • Phosphorous
  • Magnesium
  • Sodium
  • Potassium
  • Iron
  • Zinc
  • Iodine
  • Fluoride
  • Copper
  • Selenium
  • Manganese
  • Chromium
  • a few other trace elements that are present in tiny amounts

 

While they are natural minerals, they are known as inorganic substances, as they are not alive.

 

Do we really need all those minerals?

 

The short answer is, yes! However, there are a few that we need much larger amounts of than others.

 

For example, we need far more calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, potassium and chloride than fluoride, selenium or copper.

 

But the amount we need does not necessarily represent how important they are to our bodies and the way they function.

 

The amount of each mineral depends on our age, sex and stage of life.

 

For example, anyone who is menstruating or pregnant may require more iron.

 

Men, on the other hand, require slightly more zinc than women (9.5mg vs 7mg).

 

Benefits of minerals

 

The benefits of consuming the correct amount of minerals in our diets is that our bodies are supported to work as optimally as possible.

 

From normal hair and nails to maintaining the normal function of our immune system, the minerals we consume play a big part in our daily lives – usually without us even knowing it!

 

That is why many people choose to take mineral supplements to ensure they are getting enough of each mineral.

 

The benefits of some of the most popular mineral supplements are explored below.

 

Mineral supplements

 

There are hundreds of different available supplements for vitamins and minerals.

 

Perhaps you have been advised to take a specific mineral by a medical professional, or have identified yourself that your diet is lacking in a certain area.

 

Here are some of the most common mineral supplements and the benefits of taking them.

 

Calcium supplements

 

Of all the minerals in our bodies, calcium is the most plentiful: around one kilo of our body weight (mostly in our bones) is calcium!

 

Most people are aware of calcium’s major benefits, which include supporting normal bones and teeth, but the mineral also supports digestive enzymes, muscle function and blood clotting.

 

Adults need around 700mg of calcium per day, but kids and those who are breastfeeding need much more.

 

It is important to know that we need vitamin D to absorb calcium from our diet, which is why many calcium tablets pair the two nutrients together, such as Holland & Barrett Calcium plus Vitamin D Tablets.

 

Zinc tablets    

 

Check out the first aid section next time you are at a pharmacy and you will notice lots of products containing zinc.

 

But that is not all it is good for. Zinc also helps us make new proteins, as well as helping us maintain normal vision.

 

Taking a zinc supplement might be particularly helpful if you are vegan and/or gluten intolerant, as the best sources of zinc in our diet is from meat, shellfish, dairy and bread and cereal products.

 

Try Holland & Barrett High Strength Zinc Tablets 15mg or Holland & Barrett Maximum Strength Zinc Tablets 25mg.

 

Magnesium    

 

Magnesium has over 300 functions in the body and is vital for the functioning of many other minerals.

 

For examples, we need it to maintain normal bones and muscle function.

 

There are many different types of magnesium supplements, including magnesium tablets such as Holland & Barrett Magnesium Tablets, magnesium suspensions such as Floradix Magnesium Mineral Drink as well as many complimentary magnesium products, including Holland & Barrett Magnesium Oil Spray.

 

Selenium supplement

 

This trace element is vital for kick-starting and regulating our immune system.

 

It has also been found to contribute towards normal thyroid function. In men, selenium supports healthy sperm development.

 

Normally, women need 60 micrograms per day while men need 75 micrograms, but there are various strengths when it comes to selenium tablets.

 

For example, try Holland & Barrett Selenium Tablets 200ug.

It is easy to take our bodies for granted and forget that they are actually very complex, requiring just the right balance of vitamins and minerals to support all the different types of cells.

 

We often assume we are getting the right nutrients from our diets alone – especially when we feel like we are in good health.

 

But if our diet is lacking in a certain area, over time we can become deficient in vital minerals.

 

If left unchecked, this can negatively affect our general health and wellbeing, since minerals affect everything in our body, from our skin and bones to our nervous system.

 

What are minerals?

 

The minerals we have in our bodies are:

  • Calcium
  • Phosphorous
  • Magnesium
  • Sodium
  • Potassium
  • Iron
  • Zinc
  • Iodine
  • Fluoride
  • Copper
  • Selenium
  • Manganese
  • Chromium
  • a few other trace elements that are present in tiny amounts

 

While they are natural minerals, they are known as inorganic substances, as they are not alive.

 

Do we really need all those minerals?

 

The short answer is, yes! However, there are a few that we need much larger amounts of than others.

 

For example, we need far more calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, potassium and chloride than fluoride, selenium or copper.

 

But the amount we need does not necessarily represent how important they are to our bodies and the way they function.

 

The amount of each mineral depends on our age, sex and stage of life.

 

For example, anyone who is menstruating or pregnant may require more iron.

 

Men, on the other hand, require slightly more zinc than women (9.5mg vs 7mg).

 

Benefits of minerals

 

The benefits of consuming the correct amount of minerals in our diets is that our bodies are supported to work as optimally as possible.

 

From normal hair and nails to maintaining the normal function of our immune system, the minerals we consume play a big part in our daily lives – usually without us even knowing it!

 

That is why many people choose to take mineral supplements to ensure they are getting enough of each mineral.

 

The benefits of some of the most popular mineral supplements are explored below.

 

Mineral supplements

 

There are hundreds of different available supplements for vitamins and minerals.

 

Perhaps you have been advised to take a specific mineral by a medical professional, or have identified yourself that your diet is lacking in a certain area.

 

Here are some of the most common mineral supplements and the benefits of taking them.

 

Calcium supplements

 

Of all the minerals in our bodies, calcium is the most plentiful: around one kilo of our body weight (mostly in our bones) is calcium!

 

Most people are aware of calcium’s major benefits, which include supporting normal bones and teeth, but the mineral also supports digestive enzymes, muscle function and blood clotting.

 

Adults need around 700mg of calcium per day, but kids and those who are breastfeeding need much more.

 

It is important to know that we need vitamin D to absorb calcium from our diet, which is why many calcium tablets pair the two nutrients together, such as Holland & Barrett Calcium plus Vitamin D Tablets.

 

Zinc tablets    

 

Check out the first aid section next time you are at a pharmacy and you will notice lots of products containing zinc.

 

But that is not all it is good for. Zinc also helps us make new proteins, as well as helping us maintain normal vision.

 

Taking a zinc supplement might be particularly helpful if you are vegan and/or gluten intolerant, as the best sources of zinc in our diet is from meat, shellfish, dairy and bread and cereal products.

 

Try Holland & Barrett High Strength Zinc Tablets 15mg or Holland & Barrett Maximum Strength Zinc Tablets 25mg.

 

Magnesium    

 

Magnesium has over 300 functions in the body and is vital for the functioning of many other minerals.

 

For examples, we need it to maintain normal bones and muscle function.

 

There are many different types of magnesium supplements, including magnesium tablets such as Holland & Barrett Magnesium Tablets, magnesium suspensions such as Floradix Magnesium Mineral Drink as well as many complimentary magnesium products, including Holland & Barrett Magnesium Oil Spray.

 

Selenium supplement

 

This trace element is vital for kick-starting and regulating our immune system.

 

It has also been found to contribute towards normal thyroid function. In men, selenium supports healthy sperm development.

 

Normally, women need 60 micrograms per day while men need 75 micrograms, but there are various strengths when it comes to selenium tablets.

 

For example, try Holland & Barrett Selenium Tablets 200ug.

Show less
FAQs
What are minerals?

Minerals are vital nutrients required by your body for normal functioning. 

 

They are used in many important areas, aiding growth and bone health, supporting the production of hormones and enzymes and helping us to produce energy.

 

There are two types of minerals required by the human body. 

 

The first are macrominerals, which include calcium, potassium, magnesium and sodium. These are needed in larger amounts than the second type, trace minerals. 

 

Iron, copper, manganese, zinc and selenium are among the trace minerals we need in very small amounts, for a healthy body and mind.

How do I make sure I’m getting enough minerals?

Most of us will get all the vitamins and minerals we need from the food we eat. 

 

Nuts and seeds are particularly packed with magnesium, selenium and zinc. Another type of food rich in zinc is shellfish, which is also high in iron and copper.

 

A type of food high in potassium is the cruciferous vegetable family, including broccoli and cauliflower. 

 

These are also a good source of sulphur and magnesium. Avocados are a potassium rich food choice, as are berries and beans, foods that are also high in manganese and magnesium.

 

Elsewhere, cocoa is a great source of magnesium while eggs are densely packed with a wide array of minerals, including iron, phosphorous, zinc and selenium alongside numerous vitamins and other nutrients.

 

If your diet tends to be less varied, perhaps due to dietary restrictions, or if you are simply feeling a little lacking, you might choose a mineral supplement to up your intake of certain nutrients.

What are the side effects of a mineral deficiency?

For many people, a mineral deficiency can occur without side effects.

 

However a deficiency in some minerals may result in lethargy or hair loss, skin issues and headaches. 

 

An iron deficiency in particular can lead to anaemia, characterised by pale skin, tiredness and weakness. 

 

Low potassium can cause cramps and muscle aches, while a lack of magnesium can begin with nausea and fatigue and lead to stiffness and muscle spasms.

How should I take mineral supplements?

Many mineral supplements are combined to make taking them easy. 

So you might find zinc combined with calcium and magnesium for bone health. 

 

In some cases, vitamins are also included because they help with absorption – for example those bone health minerals can work even more effectively with the addition of vitamin D.

 

You may choose a supplement based on your diet. For example if you are dairy-free, you might choose a calcium supplement, while vegetarians and vegans might take a zinc or iron supplement.

 

Those with heavy periods are often recommended iron supplements.

I have heard of multivitamins, but do multiminerals exist?

They do! Not only do many multivitamins contain a selection of minerals alongside your essential vitamins, but multi-mineral supplements are also available, such as Holland & Barrett’s Super MultiMineral, which contain a variety of macro and trace minerals to help you keep your levels buoyed.

Sign up for exclusive offers
Plus, get expert advice to support your health & wellness straight to your inbox when you sign up to Holland & Barrett emails.