10 Surprising Facts About Nutritional Supplements You Probably Didn’t Know

Nutritional supplements are widely used for health, fitness, and wellness, but many fascinating facts about them remain unknown. Here are some intriguing insights backed by science.

1. Some Supplements Can Be Synthesized from Unexpected Sources

Did you know that vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is often derived from corn starch via microbial fermentation? Similarly, omega-3 supplements can be sourced from algae instead of fish, making them vegan-friendly (1).

2. Your Gut Bacteria Influence Supplement Effectiveness

Probiotics aren’t the only supplements affected by gut health. Studies show that magnesium absorption varies by up to 80% depending on gut microbiota composition (2).

3. Some Minerals Compete for Absorption

Taking zinc and iron together can reduce absorption of both. Experts recommend spacing them out by 2–3 hours for optimal uptake (3).

4. Heat and Light Can Destroy Supplements

Many vitamins (like B12 and vitamin C) degrade when exposed to heat or sunlight. Storing them in a cool, dark place can preserve potency (4).

5. Some Supplements Were Discovered by Accident

Vitamin K was found when chickens fed a low-fat diet started bleeding uncontrollably.

Lithium (used in mood supplements) was initially added to 7-Up in the 1920s as a calming agent (5).

Conclusion

Nutritional supplements are more complex than they seem—affected by gut health, storage conditions, and even competing minerals. Understanding these nuances can help optimize their benefits.

References

Doseděl, M. et al. (2021). "Vitamin C—Sources, Physiological Role, Kinetics, Deficiency, Use, Toxicity." Nutrients.

Schuchardt, J. P. (2017). "Intestinal Absorption and Factors Influencing Magnesium Bioavailability." Molecular Nutrition & Food Research.

Olivares, M. et al. (2012). "Iron and Zinc Interactions in Humans." American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

Gregory, J. F. (2008). "Vitamins in Foods: Analysis, Bioavailability, and Stability." CRC Press.

Shorter, E. (2009). "The History of Lithium Therapy." Bipolar Disorders.