Personalized Supplement Insights
CRITICAL DISCLAIMER: READ BEFORE USING
This tool provides generalized insights based on the information from our Supplement Guide and your inputs. It is for informational and educational purposes ONLY and ABSOLUTELY DOES NOT CONSTITUTE MEDICAL ADVICE.
The information has NOT been evaluated by EFSA or any medical body for personal diagnostic or therapeutic use. Supplement interactions with medications or health conditions can be serious or life-threatening. Individual needs and responses vary greatly.
ALWAYS consult a qualified healthcare professional (doctor or registered dietitian) before:
- Starting, stopping, or changing any supplement regimen.
- Making any decisions about your health or treatment.
Do not use this tool as a substitute for professional medical advice. By using this tool, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.
Understanding the EU Regulatory Framework
The European Union has a stringent, multi-layered regulatory system for food supplements to protect consumer health. Key aspects include:
Core Legislation
General Food Law (Regulation (EC) No 178/2002): Establishes general food safety principles. Food business operators are responsible for safety.
Food Supplements Directive (2002/46/EC): Harmonizes rules for vitamins and minerals, including positive lists and labelling.
Regulation (EC) No 1925/2006: Governs adding vitamins, minerals, and 'other substances' (e.g., botanicals) to foods. Article 8 allows scrutiny/restriction of substances with potential health risks.
Novel Food Regulation (EU) 2015/2283
A 'novel food' is any food not significantly consumed in the EU before May 15, 1997. This includes new ingredients, sources, or production processes. Novel foods require pre-market safety assessment by EFSA and EU Commission authorization. Many "anti-aging" compounds fall under this.
Nutrition and Health Claims Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006
Claims must be scientifically substantiated and authorized. EFSA assesses claims. Broad "anti-aging" claims are generally not permitted. Many botanical claims are "on hold." Medicinal claims (preventing, treating, curing disease) are prohibited for food supplements.
Role of EFSA and National Authorities
EFSA (European Food Safety Authority): Provides independent scientific advice on safety and claim substantiation.
European Commission: Makes regulatory decisions based on EFSA opinions.
National Competent Authorities (NCAs): Enforce food law in Member States and may have specific national rules.
Key Principle: "Not allowed unless proven safe and authorized." This safety-first approach means many substances popular elsewhere may not be legal in the EU.
Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN)
EU Regulatory Status: Cannot be legally marketed or recommended as a food supplement in the EU.
NMN is a niacin derivative and NAD+ precursor. While research is ongoing, its current regulatory status prohibits its inclusion in EU food supplements.
EU Compliance: NMN is NOT authorized for sale or recommendation as a food supplement in the EU.
Resveratrol
EU Regulatory Status: Specific forms (synthetic trans-resveratrol ≥99%; trans-resveratrol from S. cerevisiae) are for adults (max 150 mg/day).
A polyphenol with antioxidant properties, studied for cellular health. Poor bioavailability.
Key Warnings: Potential CYP2C9 enzyme inhibition (interacts with warfarin, some NSAIDs, antidiabetics). Label must state: "people using medicines should only consume the product under medical supervision."
Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus)
EU Regulatory Status: Fruiting body and its aqueous extracts generally NOT NOVEL. Mycelium-based products are generally unless specifically authorized.
Medicinal mushroom studied for cognitive benefits (NGF stimulation).
Key Warnings: Potential interactions with blood thinners, antidiabetic meds, immunosuppressants. Use fruiting body products only.
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
EU Regulatory Status: UNDER SIGNIFICANT EU SCRUTINY & BANS IN SOME COUNTRIES (e.g., Denmark). Recommended for Article 8 procedure due to safety concerns (liver, thyroid, reproduction).
Adaptogenic herb. Despite traditional use, current EU safety concerns are very high.
EU Compliance: Due to severe safety concerns and regulatory actions, Ashwagandha is NOT recommended and faces potential EU-wide restrictions.
Quercetin
EU Regulatory Status: Source-dependent. From common foods (traditional methods) generally NOT NOVEL. Quercetin from Dimorphandra mollis is and requires authorization.
Dietary flavonoid, antioxidant. Many potential drug interactions (CYP450 enzymes).
Luteolin
EU Regulatory Status: Concentrated extracts for supplements may be NOVEL; status needs verification for specific products. Naturally present in foods is not novel.
Flavonoid, antioxidant. Potential drug interactions (e.g., statins via CYP450).
Curcumin (from Turmeric)
EU Regulatory Status: Standard turmeric extracts (natural ratios) generally NOT NOVEL. ADI 3mg/kg bw/day. Formulations enhancing bioavailability may be and face safety scrutiny (liver toxicity).
Active compound in turmeric, anti-inflammatory. Liver/gallbladder warnings.
Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
EU Regulatory Status: Rhizome and traditional extracts generally NOT NOVEL.
Spice/remedy for digestion, anti-inflammatory. Interacts with blood thinners.
Coenzyme Q10
EU Regulatory Status: Generally permitted in supplements.
Cellular energy, antioxidant. Levels decline with age. Potential interaction with warfarin.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA/DHA)
EU Regulatory Status: Well-regulated with authorized health claims (e.g., heart, brain function).
Essential fats. Caution with blood thinners at high doses.
Vitamin D
EU Regulatory Status: Well-regulated vitamin with authorized health claims (e.g., immune function).
Supports immunity, bone health. Adhere to recommended daily allowances.
B Vitamins (e.g., B6, B12, Folate)
EU Regulatory Status: Well-regulated vitamins with authorized health claims (e.g., energy, fatigue reduction).
Support energy, nervous system. Note UL for B6. Prefer active forms.
Magnesium
EU Regulatory Status: Well-regulated mineral with authorized health claims (e.g., fatigue reduction, muscle function).
Essential for many bodily functions. Choose bioavailable forms.
General Advice & Final Reminders
Always Prioritize Safety & Professional Guidance:
- Consult Your Doctor: This is paramount before starting ANY new supplement. Discuss your health conditions, medications, and the specific supplement you are considering.
- EU Regulations are Key: Ensure any supplement you consider is legally marketed in the EU. Be wary of products making unsubstantiated "anti-aging" or medicinal claims.
- Start Low, Go Slow: If, after medical consultation, you proceed, start with the lowest effective dose.
- Quality Matters: Choose reputable brands that adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
- Listen to Your Body: Discontinue use and consult your doctor if you experience any adverse effects.
- Supplements are Not a Magic Bullet: They are intended to "supplement" a healthy diet and lifestyle.
This guide aims to provide an overview based on complex regulatory and scientific information. It is not exhaustive and should not replace professional medical advice.