Antioxidants

Antioxidant Supplements in Portugal: Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Selenium, Zinc and More

What "antioxidant" means on a supplement. In the European Union, the only authorised claims about protecting cells belong to specific nutrients: vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, selenium, copper, manganese and riboflavin (vitamin B2) contribute to the protection of cells from oxidative stress. These claims apply to products providing at least 15% of the nutrient reference value (NRV) per daily dose.

Vitamins and minerals with a claim. In this collection you will find vitamin C (NOW Foods Vitamin C-1000 and Osavi liposomal vitamin C), NOW Foods selenium 100 mcg and 200 mcg, zinc, Swanson copper and NOW Foods CoQ10 50 mg with selenium and vitamin E, where the claim applies to the selenium and vitamin E.

Other compounds. Coenzyme Q10, astaxanthin, resveratrol, NAC, glutathione, alpha-lipoic acid, curcumin and spirulina are described only by their composition and amount per serving, because there are no authorised health claims in the EU for these ingredients. You will find more plant extracts under herbal supplements.

Omega-3. Some fish oils are also in this collection. EPA and DHA contribute to the normal function of the heart (the beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 250 mg of EPA and DHA). See all omega-3.

Safety. The EFSA upper level for selenium is 255 mcg/day and for zinc 25 mg/day — add up the doses from all your supplements. If you take medication (for example anticoagulants), consult your doctor before taking plant extracts such as turmeric, or coenzyme Q10.

Frequently asked questions

Do antioxidants replace fruit and vegetables? No. A varied diet rich in fruit and vegetables remains the foundation; food supplements are only a complement.

Where can I buy antioxidant supplements in Portugal? From the Nutri9 online shop, with delivery across Portugal, or at our physical shop in Malveira.