Exclusive Investigation Uncovers 'Unsafe' Vitamin Supplements Ignoring NHS Guidelines
A shocking probe into the UK's £171 billion wellness industry has exposed vitamins being sold at doses up to five times the safe upper limit recommended by the NHS. The investigation, conducted by consumer group Which? in collaboration with ITV's Tonight programme, highlights serious health risks associated with daily consumption of these high-strength supplements.
Alarming Findings on Vitamin D and B12 Doses
The investigation discovered wellbeing supplements available online in quantities far exceeding safe daily intake levels. One particularly concerning product contained 1,250 micrograms of Vitamin D per tablet, which is 12.5 times the NHS's recommended safe daily amount. Consistently taking excessive Vitamin D can lead to increased blood pressure, weakened bones, and even kidney failure.
Additionally, high doses of vitamin B12, imported from Spain and India and illegal to sell in the UK, were found on online marketplaces. Which? approached AliExpress and Etsy regarding these listings. Etsy confirmed the flagged items are no longer available, while AliExpress stated it had removed the high-strength Vitamin D supplement, emphasising its commitment to product safety.
Experts Warn of a 'Wild West' in Wellness
Oli Patrick, a physiologist and wellbeing expert, described the wellness sector as a "wild west," where constant exposure to idealised images makes it challenging for average individuals seeking better health. Shefalee Loth from Which? cautioned that consumers might be wasting money on unsafe supplements, urging online platforms to be held accountable.
Shefalee Loth emphasised the need for better government regulation and stricter rules to prevent the sale of unsafe high-dose supplements. She advised consumers to check supplement doses against daily requirements and avoid products with excessive amounts.
Scrutiny on Collagen and Injectable Supplements
The Tonight team also examined collagen supplements, which are marketed for skin and joint benefits. Despite 10% of adults reporting use in a recent survey, Dr Ophelia Veraitch, a consultant dermatologist, expressed scepticism about their effectiveness, warning that claims can be misleading.
Furthermore, Which? found injectable supplements for sale online, which should only be available via prescription. This raises additional safety concerns about unregulated access to such products.
The Thriving Wellness Industry and Personal Stories
Despite these risks, the wellness industry continues to grow, with nearly a fifth of people spending up to £200 monthly on wellness products. Former actress Davinia Taylor, now a wellbeing advocate with over a million social media followers, shared her journey into "biohacking" after experiencing postnatal depression. She credits changes like using MCT oil and avoiding processed foods for her improved health.
Technology and Fitness in Wellness
ITV Presenter Charlotte Hawkins tested an Oura ring, a £349 device that monitors body functions, revealing her biological age as seven years younger than her actual age but highlighting high stress levels. Dr Rachael Kent from King’s College London warned against over-reliance on such technology, which might disconnect users from their own bodily signals.
On fitness, exercise is noted to reduce early death risk by up to 30%. Charlotte incorporates meditation and stretching into her routine, while Caroline Leek's MenoBox classes in Catford, South East London, offer boxing as a constructive outlet for stress and aggression.
Mushrooms and Alternative Remedies
Ade Rose of The Pendle Mushroom Company in Lancashire produces mushroom tinctures, claiming health benefits based on traditional Chinese medicine and small-scale studies. However, there is no conclusive proof that mushrooms improve wellness, underscoring the need for evidence-based approaches.
A Department of Health spokesperson reiterated that supplement benefits must be backed by evidence, with enforcement action possible for rule-breakers. The investigation underscores urgent calls for enhanced oversight in the rapidly expanding wellness market.
