Stable energy isn't about more caffeine — it's about the basics working properly. Iron, B12, folate, magnesium, vitamin B6 and vitamin D support red blood cells, mitochondria and brain chemistry, while fibre, protein and healthy fats smooth out blood-sugar peaks and dips.

Energy & Focus

Beat the afternoon crash and think more clearly

The sunshine vitamin for healthy bones, teeth and muscles

Often called the 'sunshine vitamin', Vitamin D is unique because your body creates it from sunlight. 
        It's essential for guiding calcium to where it's needed most, helping to keep your bones and muscles strong and healthy.

        During the darker autumn and winter months, or if you don't get much time outdoors, it can be tricky to get enough. That's when turning to food sources like oily fish, eggs, and fortified foods becomes a great way to top up your levels. For many, a simple daily supplement during these months is also a wise choice.

Vitamin D

Learn about vitamin D's key role in your health, the best food sources, and the daily amount to aim for.

Mackerel

Milk

Salmon

Essential for a balanced mood, immune health, and utilising protein from food

Vitamin B6, also known as Pyridoxine, is a versatile player in your body's daily operations. Its primary role is to help your body effectively use and store energy from the protein and carbohydrates you eat. It is also essential in the production of haemoglobin, the substance in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout your body, which is vital for overall energy and wellbeing.

        Like many other B vitamins, B6 is water-soluble. This means your body uses what it needs and doesn't build up a large surplus, so a consistent daily intake from your diet is the best way to ensure you have a steady supply.

Vitamin B6

Learn about the B vitamins' key role in your health, the best food sources, and the daily amount to aim for.

Banana

Chicken

Chickpeas

Potatoes

The fundamental nutrient for building new cells and supporting healthy development

Vitamin B9, or Folate, plays a fundamental role in building and repairing your body. It is essential for creating new cells and forming DNA—the blueprint for all cell growth and function.

This role becomes especially critical during periods of rapid growth, which is why Folate is so important for a healthy pregnancy. For this reason, a folic acid supplement (the synthetic form of folate) is strongly recommended for women who are planning a pregnancy or are in the early stages.

Like other B vitamins, Folate is water-soluble, meaning your body can't store large amounts. A consistent intake of folate-rich foods is key to keeping your cellular repair and renewal systems well-supplied.

Vitamin B9 (Folate)

Avocado

Black beans

Lentils

Spinach

Helps make red blood cells and keeps the brain and nervous system healthy.

Vitamin B12, also known as Cobalamin, is vital for several key bodily processes. It's a primary component in the formation of healthy red blood cells, which are responsible for carrying oxygen to every part of your body. It also plays a crucial role in protecting your nerve cells and supporting the fundamental process of DNA creation.

        A unique aspect of B12 is its source. It is found almost exclusively in animal-derived foods like meat, fish, eggs, and dairy. This makes it a crucial nutrient for those following a vegan or strictly vegetarian diet to be mindful of. Fortified foods (like some plant milks and cereals) or a reliable supplement are the best ways to ensure an adequate intake.
        
        Unlike many other B vitamins, your body can store B12 in the liver for several years. This means a deficiency can take a long time to develop, making a consistent, long-term source all the more important.

Vitamin B12

Cheese

Tuna

Essential for oxygen transport and maintaining energy

Iron's most critical role is building haemoglobin, the protein in your red blood cells that acts like a transport system, carrying oxygen from your lungs to every cell in your body. This oxygen delivery is fundamental to your body's energy production and overall vitality.

        There are two forms of iron in our diet. Heme iron, found in animal products like red meat, is easily absorbed. Non-heme iron, found in plant-based sources like beans, nuts, and leafy greens, is also valuable, and its absorption can be boosted by pairing it with a source of Vitamin C.
        
        Because of menstrual blood loss, the iron needs for pre-menopausal women are significantly higher than for men. This is why being mindful of regular iron-rich sources in the diet is particularly important for this group.

Iron

Learn about iron's key role in your health, the best food sources, and the daily amount to aim for.

The NIH provides specific iron RDAs for different life stages.

WHO warns that iron deficiency anaemia is widespread and encourages iron-rich diets and fortification to prevent deficiency.

Liver

Red meat

Supports sleep, mood and energy metabolism

Magnesium is one of the body's busiest minerals, acting as a crucial helper in over 300 biochemical reactions. This vital activity is essential for converting food into energy, supporting the smooth communication between your nerves and muscles, and helping to maintain strong, healthy bones.

        Because it plays a role in so many fundamental processes, the most effective way to ensure you're getting enough is through a consistently varied diet.

Magnesium

Learn about magnesium's key role in your health, the best food sources, and the daily amount to aim for.

The NIH provides specific magnesium RDAs for different life stages.