Clear answers on the gut, skin, immune system, stress and sleep: which nutrients matter, in what amounts and how to build them into your routine.
9Topics from gut to sleep
16Guides in the PROBIO Journal
10Formulas made in Germany
1990founded
Gut & Microbiome
Which food supplements are good for the gut?
In shortThe foundation is a diet rich in fibre. As a supplement, the main options are probiotics with clearly named bacterial strains and prebiotics such as inulin.
What to look for
Bacterial strains and quantity in CFU are listed individually
Gastro-resistant capsule, so the cultures reach the gut
A prebiotic such as inulin as a source of fibre
Storage information, for example whether refrigeration is needed
Not everyone needs a probiotic. It can be useful, for example, after a course of antibiotics or if your diet is low in fibre. Calcium contributes to the normal function of digestive enzymes.
In shortCollagen is a structural protein of the skin, bones and connective tissue. Vitamin C is important for the body’s own collagen formation: it contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin.
What to look for
Amount of collagen per day in milligrams
Collagen type and source, for example BioCell Collagen®
Vitamin C in the formula
Complementary substances such as hyaluronic acid
Hair and nails call for other nutrients: biotin and zinc contribute to the maintenance of normal skin and hair, and zinc to the maintenance of normal nails.
Which nutrients are of interest for healthy ageing?
In shortThe biggest levers are exercise, sleep and diet. In addition, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants such as vitamin E and plant compounds such as OPC or resveratrol are often mentioned.
What to look for
Omega-3 with the amount of EPA and DHA stated
Antioxidant vitamins such as vitamins C and E
Plant compounds with stated quantities, such as OPC or coenzyme Q10
No healing claims on the pack
Vitamin E contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress. EPA and DHA contribute to the normal function of the heart, with a daily intake of 250 mg.
In shortZinc, vitamin C, vitamin D and vitamins B6, B12 and folate contribute to the normal function of the immune system. If you eat a varied diet, you already cover some of these through food.
What to look for
Nutrients with an authorised claim for the immune system
Amount per day relative to the reference intake
No unnecessarily high doses
Duplicate nutrients when combining several products
Magnesium and zinc are important for bones: both contribute to the maintenance of normal bones.
In shortIn times of stress, the focus is on magnesium and B vitamins. Magnesium and vitamins B6 and B12 contribute to the normal functioning of the nervous system and to normal psychological function.
What to look for
Magnesium from organic compounds rather than just magnesium oxide
All eight B vitamins rather than individual ones
Active forms such as methylfolate and methylcobalamin
Take with a meal
Both nutrients also contribute to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. However, they do not replace breaks, exercise and sleep.
In shortFixed bedtimes, a dark, cool bedroom and little caffeine and screen time in the evening make the biggest difference. Many people also take magnesium as part of their evening routine.
What to look for
No caffeine in the afternoon and evening, including from green tea
Magnesium in the evening in a well-tolerated form
Fixed times, even at weekends
Have persistent sleep problems checked by a doctor
Magnesium contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system. PROBIO does not currently offer melatonin.
Which food supplements are of interest for men over 40?
In shortFrom 40, the prostate and hormonal balance come into focus. Commonly used are plant extracts such as Pygeum, saw palmetto and pumpkin seed, as well as zinc and vitamin B6.
What to look for
Amount of extract per day in milligrams
A single extract or a matched combination
Zinc and vitamin B6 in the formula
Always have symptoms checked by a doctor
Zinc contributes to the maintenance of normal testosterone levels in the blood. Vitamin B6 contributes to the regulation of hormonal activity.
In shortStart with a few basic nutrients that are often in short supply in the diet, such as magnesium and omega-3. Add further products specifically for your goal.
What to look for
Clear quantities for every ingredient
Made and tested in Germany or the EU
A few products rather than many at once
Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you take medication
Magnesium contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. EPA and DHA contribute to the normal function of the heart, with a daily intake of 250 mg.
In shortAlways take your products at the same time and with a meal. Fat-soluble substances such as omega-3 are best taken with a meal that contains fat.
What to look for
Morning: probiotics, B vitamins and formulas containing caffeine
Midday: omega-3 with your main meal
Evening: magnesium
Collagen and nutricosmetics: at a fixed time, every day
Consistency matters more than the perfect time. For skin, hair and nails, allow at least three months.
Not necessarily. A balanced diet covers many nutrients. Supplements can be useful if your diet has gaps or your needs are increased.
Which food supplements make sense?
That depends on your diet, age and goal. Magnesium and omega-3 are often chosen as a foundation. Further products are added specifically.
Should you take food supplements every day?
Most products are intended for daily use. Stick to the recommended daily amount on the pack.
What should I look for when buying?
Clear quantities per ingredient, the origin, laboratory testing and statements that do not promise to cure anything.
Can I combine several products?
In usual amounts, yes. Look out for nutrients that appear twice. If you take medication or have a medical condition, please ask your doctor or pharmacist first.
The information in the Knowledge Hub is for general information and does not replace medical advice. Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.
