AMY PACKER

EVERYONE:

A multivitamin and mineral (designed for your age group) and an omega-3 essential fatty acid supplement if you don’t eat fish twice a week (one of which is oily), plus a probiotic for optimum digestive health.

PREGNANT OR BREASTFEEDING:

A specific pregnancy or breastfeeding supplement such as Pregnacare (£4.50 for 30; Boots) as these are specially formulated and will not contain the retinol form of vitamin A which may harm the foetus.

MENOPAUSAL:

Women going through the change can benefit from additional magnesium and vitamin B, as well as hyaluronic acid and Omega-7 for skin dryness and isoflavone supplements for low oestrogen symptoms.

A multivitamin with a blend of natural plant extracts such as flax, sage and soy extracts will support hormone balance, reducing the frequency of hot flushes. Menoforce (£13.99 for 30; Holland & Barrett) can help with hot flushes and night sweats while Dormeasan (£10.50 for 50ml; Boots) uses fresh extract of valerian and hops to relieve anxiety and sleep problems.

OVER 50: STRESSED:

As well as a vitamin and mineral supplement to replace essential nutrients used up in the metabolic reactions associated with the fight-or-flight response, consider an omega-3 fish oil to aid brain function and mood regulation and help neutralise some of the effects of excessive stress.

A probiotic to replenish immune-boosting bacteria in the gut is useful while Co-enzyme Q10 improves physical energy levels and endurance.

Choose a vitamin and mineral supplement according to your age, because nutrient absorption can be a problem due to reduced production of stomach acid.

Low levels of acidity affect the absorption of many nutrients, including calcium, iron, betacarotene (a plant source of vitamin A), folic acid and vitamin B12.

Because of these changes, supplements designed for the 50-plus tend to contain twice as much B vitamins and other key nutrients (but less iron) while those aimed at aged 70-plus will contain even more.

VEGETARIAN OR VEGAN:

Try a supplement containing iron, vitamin B12 and calcium. Look for brands specifically for vegans.