Vitamins & Supplements

A varied, balanced diet gives most people the vitamins and minerals they need. Supplements can help fill specific gaps, such as vitamin D in the darker months, or suit people who want extra support alongside a healthy lifestyle. Our pharmacy team keeps a small range of supplements, chosen for quality and clear labelling. MedsRus stocks the Zooki liposomal range, including ashwagandha, glutathione and marine collagen.

Shop Zooki Super Strength Collagen →

Do you need a supplement?

Most people don't need supplements if they eat a varied diet with plenty of fruit, vegetables, wholegrains and protein. But the NHS recommends some supplements for certain groups:

• Vitamin D: everyone in the UK should consider 10 micrograms a day in autumn and winter, when there isn't enough sunlight to make it in your skin. Some people, including those who rarely go outside or have darker skin, should consider it all year round.
• Folic acid: 400 micrograms a day if you could get pregnant or are trying for a baby, until 12 weeks of pregnancy.
• Vitamins A, C and D for children aged 6 months to 5 years, in most cases.
• Vitamin B12 if you eat a vegan diet.

Taking more than you need doesn't add extra benefit, and some vitamins and minerals can be harmful in large amounts. Check the label for the daily amount, and speak to a pharmacist if you take several supplements or any prescription medicines.

Our Zooki range

What does "liposomal" mean?

Liposomes are tiny fat-like bubbles that wrap around the active ingredient. Manufacturers use them to help protect the ingredient as it passes through the gut.

Zooki Super Strength Collagen

Collagen is a protein found throughout the body, in skin, bones, cartilage and tendons. Zooki's collagen comes in a ready-to-drink sachet, with 11,000mg of hydrolysed marine collagen from cod. It also contains vitamin C, and vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin, cartilage and bones.

As it's made from fish, it isn't suitable if you have a fish allergy.

Zooki Liposomal Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is a herb that has been used in traditional Ayurvedic practice for thousands of years. Zooki's capsules contain KSM-66, a widely studied extract made from ashwagandha root.

Ashwagandha isn't suitable for everyone. Don't take it if you're pregnant, trying to get pregnant or breastfeeding. Speak to a pharmacist or GP first if you have a thyroid condition, an autoimmune condition or liver problems, or take medicines for diabetes, blood pressure, thyroid problems, anxiety or sleep. Stop taking it and get advice if you notice yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark pee or tummy pain.

Zooki Liposomal Glutathione

Glutathione is a molecule made naturally in the body from three amino acids. Zooki's capsules provide 500mg of glutathione per daily serving. Speak to a pharmacist before taking it if you're pregnant, breastfeeding or taking other medicines.

Getting the most from supplements

• Food first. Supplements add to a healthy diet; they don't replace it.
• Take them consistently at the same time each day.
• Don't exceed the recommended amount on the label.
• Check for overlaps. Many products contain the same vitamins, which can add up.
• Tell your doctor or pharmacist about any supplements you take, especially before surgery or when starting new medicines.
• Store them as the label says, out of reach of children.

Reading a supplement label

Supplement labels can be confusing. A few things to look for:

• Amount per serving: check how many capsules or sachets make one serving, as the headline figure is often for the full daily amount.
• %NRV: the nutrient reference value shows how much of an adult's daily need one serving provides. For example, 50% NRV of vitamin C is half the daily amount.
• Allergens: fish, shellfish, soy, dairy and gluten must be highlighted in the ingredients list.
• Who it's not for: warnings for pregnancy, children or people taking medicines.
• Health claims: in the UK, only authorised claims can be made about supplements. Be wary of products promising to treat or cure anything.

Supplements and medicines

Some supplements can interact with prescription medicines. For example, some herbal products affect blood thinners, antidepressants or the contraceptive pill. If you take any regular medicines, ask our pharmacy team before adding a supplement.

Vitamin and supplement FAQs

Do I need to take vitamins?

Most people don't if they eat a varied diet. The main exception is vitamin D, which everyone in the UK should consider in autumn and winter.

What is liposomal collagen or ashwagandha?

It means the active ingredient is wrapped in tiny fat-like bubbles called liposomes.

Is marine collagen suitable for vegetarians?

No. Marine collagen comes from fish.

Can I take ashwagandha while pregnant?

No. Ashwagandha isn't recommended in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Can I take supplements with my prescription medicines?

Sometimes, but some supplements interact with medicines. Check with a pharmacist first.

How long do supplements take to work?

It depends on the supplement. Follow the label and give it a few weeks of regular use.

Further reading

• Obagi skin care
• All wellbeing products

Sources:

• NHS: Vitamins and minerals
• NHS: Vitamin D
• GOV.UK: Food supplements