Vitamins and minerals are vital substances that have to be ingested via our diet. Naturally, the “dose makes the poison” here – by the way, this applies to all substances in our food, such as fat, sugar or salt. There is a legal framework for nutritional supplements and dietary foods for special medical purposes, determining the amounts of vitamins and minerals that can be used. The credo is always: A dietary food or nutritional supplement has to be safe! The dosages used in quality supplements are therefore always nutritional and far below the defined critical values.

Special supplements can help us to avoid bone breakdown, or even improve bone density. Recommended preparations are based on the latest study findings and not only provide the bone classics calcium, vitamin D3 and vitamin K2, but also lesser-known bone nutrients such as magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, manganese and boron, which contribute to the strengthening of bones.

BIOGENA blood spot analyses use innovative dried blood spot technology: Unlike previous capillary blood tests (tube sampling), which required more blood and were therefore more complicated to perform, dried blood spot technology requires only a few drops of capillary blood, which are applied to special filter paper, dried, sent for analysis and then evaluated in the diagnostic laboratory. This method enables simple and gentle sample collection with a small blood volume and, thanks to a scientifically validated laboratory method, provides reliable results for many nutrients and biomarkers. Dried blood samples are often more stable than liquid samples during transport and storage and can be easily sent to the laboratory by post. This allows selected blood biomarkers to be conveniently determined from home without having to make an appointment for a venous blood sample.

A balanced diet, a year-round good vitamin D supply and regular exercise are crucial. In addition, special preparations with vitamin D, vitamin K2, calcium and magnesium can help to promote bone health and prevent osteoporosis.

To optimise your iron absorption, we recommend consuming iron-rich foods such as meat, legumes, whole grain products and green vegetables. It's best to combine these with vitamin C-rich foods such as paprika or oranges, as vitamin C improves iron absorption. If you have difficulty getting enough iron through diet or have a higher daily iron requirement, you can also take iron supplements.

Just as the bone breaks down it can also rebuild itself. A limited increase in bone density through nutritional measures is possible, but this is a lengthy process that can take several years. Even stopping bone loss and preserving bone mass is a success. For a long time, it was assumed that calcium alone was responsible for bone strength. We now know more about the interaction of various components of nutrition (calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, boron, silicon, vitamin D, vitamin K) and lifestyle (sufficient movement and exercise, not smoking, moderate alcohol consumption). To maintain and rebuild bone density, it makes sense to take special supplements that supply all of the necessary micro-nutrients in the right quantities. Common calcium + vitamin D preparations lack essential active ingredients. Long-term use is important.

There is no “best” antioxidant as different antioxidants each perform specific protective functions in the body and often work most effectively when combined. However, vitamin C and vitamin E are often referred to as strong antioxidants with a high level of efficacy in protecting against oxidative damage. Similarly, phytonutrients such as polyphenols (e.g. in berries) and carotenoids (e.g. in carrots) are extremely effective. Therefore, a varied diet rich in different antioxidants is the most beneficial for your health.

The best vitamin B12 preparations come from trustworthy manufacturers and ideally contain the natural vitamin B12 forms methylcobalamin, adenosylcobalamin and hydroxycobalamin. They are also as free as possible from unnecessary additives.

Connective tissue can be strengthened by a combination of massage, creams, sufficient fluids, a balanced diet and exercise. Particularly effective are collagen supplements and vitamin C, which support collagen production and strengthen tissue.

Physicians recommend that women take folic acid when they want to have children, as a good vitamin intake is critical – especially in early pregnancy – at a time when many women are still unaware of their changed state.