Understand what is in your bottle

Potassium is a mineral and an electrolyte. It participates in fluid balance inside cells, nerve signalling and muscle contraction.

Beans, potatoes, leafy vegetables, fruit and dairy foods can all contribute potassium. A varied diet offers other nutrients alongside it; a potassium supplement is not a replacement for those foods.

Needs vary with age and life stage. Kidney problems and some medicines can allow potassium to build up, so discuss supplementation with a healthcare professional in these situations.

• NIH ODS — Potassium
• NIH ODS — Potassium: nutrient background

Magnesium participates in muscle and nerve function, protein formation and energy production. Nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grains and leafy vegetables are dietary sources.

Zinc is involved in making proteins and DNA and in immune function. Vitamin B6 participates in enzyme reactions involved in metabolism. These are different nutrients, so each has its own line on a supplement label.

A nutrient’s role does not show that everyone needs an extra supplement. Consider your diet and the combined amounts from all products you use; a healthcare professional can help assess your needs.

• NIH ODS — Magnesium
• NIH ODS — Magnesium: nutrient background
• NIH ODS — Zinc
• NIH ODS — Vitamin B6

Start with the serving size and amount per serving. A bottle’s capsule count is not its daily dose, and a number per capsule is not automatically the amount in a full serving.

Read the complete ingredient list, including the capsule shell, and any allergen statements. Compare like units and serving sizes, then check directions and warnings on the label for your country.

Tell your healthcare professional about medicines and supplements you use. Follow the label, avoid combining products without checking their ingredients, and seek advice before use during pregnancy, breastfeeding or with a medical condition.

• FDA — Dietary supplements
• NIH ODS — What you need to know