Which supplements do you take?

“I take a multivitamin that contains 10mcg of vitamin D, omega-3 and a probiotic. I also take high-dose vitamin C when I’m ill.”

Why do you take these supplements?

“While multivitamins are not essential, they can act as a bit of a safety blanket. They’re not a replacement for a healthy, balanced diet (far from it), but they can help to fill any gaps that may be apparent due to a busy lifestyle. Vitamin D is important because most of the vitamin D we get is from the sun, but in the winter months the UV light is not strong enough in the UK to synthesise sufficient amounts within the skin, so supplementation is needed.

“I take omega-3 because these fatty acids are anti-inflammatory and play an important role in the body, with links to many health benefits. There are three different types of omega-3, and it is possible to get them all from food sources – the ALA type can be found in walnuts, chia seeds and linseeds, while the EPA and DHA types can be found in oily fish such as salmon and mackerel. However, some people may benefit from taking omega-3 supplements, for example if you’re vegetarian or vegan.

“Last, but by no means least, I take a probiotic to keep my gut happy and healthy. Our gut naturally contains trillions of bacteria but sometimes they become ‘imbalanced’ and need a helping hand, and this is where probiotics can help. I take my probiotic alongside lots of prebiotic sources: non-digestible foods such as wholemeal flour, vegetables, beans and pulses. I personally try to remember to take probiotic supplements daily (as well as some fermented foods weekly if I can), especially if I am run-down or have to take antibiotics.”

5 nutritionists and dietitians on the supplements they take (and why)