My Honest Guide to Navigating the UK Supplement Aisle
Let’s be honest: the world of supplements can be completely overwhelming. Whether you're trying to boost your immune system, improve your sleep, or just feel a bit more energised, it’s easy to fall down a rabbit hole of multivitamins, adaptogens, and powders that promise the world. A quick Google search or TikTok scroll can lead you to dozens of “must-try” products—many of which seem too good to be true.
The UK supplement market is massive and growing fast. And while there are some genuinely helpful products out there, it’s important to be clued up before adding anything new to your routine. Here’s what I think you should know before you spend your money (and potentially mess with your body chemistry).
So, How Are Supplements Regulated in the UK?
In the UK, supplements are classed as foods, not medicines. That means they don’t go through the same kind of testing or regulation as pharmaceutical drugs do. Instead, they’re overseen by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and the Department of Health and Social Care. If a product claims to treat or cure anything specific, it should be classed as a medicine—and regulated by the MHRA. But as you’ve probably noticed, some brands get very creative with their wording to avoid that.
Bottom line: just because something is for sale doesn’t mean it’s been proven to work, or even that it’s 100% safe. That’s why doing a little digging before you buy is so important.
My Top 5 Tips for Choosing Supplements Wisely
1. Stick with Products That Meet UK/EU Standards
Look for supplements that comply with UK laws, like the Food Supplements Regulations 2003, and preferably still meet EU standards too (many UK companies continue to follow them post-Brexit). Avoid cheap-looking products from unverified overseas sellers, especially ones you’ve seen only in Facebook ads or viral TikToks—if it feels sketchy, it probably is.
2. Don’t Fall for Wild Health Claims
If a supplement says it can “cure” or “treat” something, it’s either breaking the rules or bending them beyond recognition. Legally, companies can’t make medicinal claims unless they’re properly licensed. Still, the marketing can be incredibly convincing. Just remember: if it sounds like a miracle, it’s probably just marketing fluff.
3. Look for Independent Testing or Certifications
This isn’t mandatory, but it’s a really good sign when a brand chooses to have their products independently tested. Certifications like Informed-Sport are especially useful if you’re an athlete or just want peace of mind that what’s on the label is actually in the bottle.
4. Get Into the Habit of Reading Labels
This might sound boring, but it’s crucial. Look out for:
All listed ingredients (especially any fillers or sweeteners)
Clear dosage info
Known allergens
The specific form of each nutrient (some are much better absorbed than others)
Also, beware of “proprietary blends” that don’t tell you how much of each ingredient is included. Transparency is key.
5. Ask a Professional (Not Just an Influencer)
If you’re unsure, have a health condition, or are already taking medications, speak to someone qualified—like a GP, pharmacist, or registered nutritional therapist. As a nutritional therapist myself, I often use lab testing to tailor supplement plans, and I only recommend trusted, ethically responsible brands.
A Word on Trends and Testimonials
There’s a lot of noise out there—especially on social media. But just because a product worked wonders for someone else (or at least they say it did!) doesn’t mean it’ll be right for you. Testimonials can be misleading, and influencer marketing doesn’t always come with proper science. Be especially cautious of anything claiming to fix everything in one go.
Final Thoughts
Supplements can absolutely play a positive role in your health, if you choose them wisely. But they’re not a shortcut or a substitute for a good diet, sleep, movement, and stress management. Focus on brands you trust, read the small print, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. And remember—sometimes, the best supplement is simply the one your body actually needs, not the one that’s trending this week.