Matina Noula, clinical psychologist and marathon runner, explores the vital role vitamins and minerals play in our physical and mental wellbeing.

Wellbeing means more than simply being free of health problems, and it doesn’t require a perfect life. It’s about how we feel and function day to day: our energy, our mood, the quality of our sleep, our resilience in the face of life’s demands and, ultimately, the relationship we have with ourselves. When our days are fast-paced, packed with commitments and full of constant stimulation, looking after our bodies becomes even more important, and wellbeing deserves a central place in our lives.

Nutrition is an essential part of how we care for ourselves. No single food or supplement can bring us wellbeing on its own. There are, however, nutrients that play an important role in key physiological functions. When we get enough of them, they can support the body’s normal functioning and, alongside, our wellbeing.

Vitamin B complex: energy and the nervous system

The B vitamins are involved in many processes linked to energy metabolism and nervous system function. Vitamins B6 and B12, among others, contribute to normal psychological function, while several B vitamins contribute to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.

During especially demanding times, when work, exercise and daily responsibilities start to pile up, making sure we get enough of the nutrients we need is part of caring for our bodies as a whole.

Magnesium: an important part of balance and recovery

Magnesium plays a role in many physiological processes and contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system, to normal psychological function and to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.

Of course, no single nutrient is the answer to the pressures of everyday life. Sleep, rest, movement and how we manage stress, all matter just as much. Alongside them, magnesium can be part of a well-rounded approach to wellbeing.

Vitamin C and zinc: supporting the body

Vitamin C and zinc both contribute to the normal function of the immune system and to the protection of cells from oxidative stress. Vitamin C also contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue, while zinc is involved in a wide range of metabolic processes.

Adequate intake of both forms part of a balanced diet. Particularly during periods of increased demand, it is worth paying closer attention to the overall quality of our diet, rather than relying on any single nutrient to meet all our nutritional needs.

Vitamin D: another factor of wellbeing

Vitamin D is best known for its role in maintaining normal bones and muscle function. It also contributes to the normal function of the immune system and to the normal absorption of calcium and phosphorus.

Our vitamin D levels can be influenced by how much sun we get, the time of year, our diet and our lifestyle, so having enough isn’t something we should take for granted. Where appropriate, an assessment by a healthcare professional can determine whether additional support is needed.

Well-being means balance, not perfection

In the end, no single choice builds wellbeing. It takes shape gradually, through daily habits: eating a balanced and diverse diet, staying hydrated, sleeping well, keeping active, resting and making time for ourselves.

Vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, magnesium and the vitamin B complex can all play an important part in looking after ourselves when diet alone does not fully meet our body’s needs.

After all, wellbeing doesn’t mean doing everything perfectly. It means listening a little more closely to our bodies and minds and making small, consistent choices, that give them what they need to function in greater balance.