Australian wellness brand Eimele redefines everyday nutrition

A comprehensive multivitamin built to complement modern, health-conscious diets. Essential 8 is less of a supplement and more of an everyday extension of your real-food nutrition.

Essential 8 supplies the body with vital nutrients that help maintain strong bones and structural health, boost daily energy, strengthen immune function, and support peak brain and heart performance.

Essential 8 has been scientifically formulated and tested for safety and efficacy by Australia’s regulatory body, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). The intention behind Essential 8 was to create a multi-nutrient supplement that is potent, safe and effective with everything you need and nothing you don’t.

As an Australian-owned and manufactured product, Essential 8 has been made to the highest possible standards. Essential 8 has also been independently third-party tested, allowing for complete confidence in its safety and transparency.

Form Matters

Without getting too technical, when it comes to supplements it’s helpful to understand that certain nutrients can take different forms.

What are we talking about when we say ‘form’? The form that the nutrient takes often has to do with the source e.g. synthetic, soil-based or food-based. The form can also indicate what compound the nutrient is attached to. These compounds can change how the body metabolises (absorbs, uses, stores and excretes) the nutrients in the supplement.

Let’s look at an example from the Essential 8 formula:
Iron can be attached to compounds such as bisglycinate, so we call that form iron bisglycinate. Bisglycinate means that there are two molecules of glycine – an amino acid that helps with absorption in the gut. So unlike some popular iron supplements, iron bisglycinate won’t cause an upset stomach. The iron will also be absorbed faster, getting to work where it’s needed most.

Mindfully Sourced

When formulating Essential 8, the source of each nutrient was key to ensuring that the outcome would be the most effective, safe and plant-based multinutrient.

Many supplements are sourced from animals, such as vitamin D3, which is typically derived from lanolin (sheep’s wool), so we looked to source premium plant-based alternatives.

As you will see in the section below ‘Understanding the ingredients in Essential 8’, most of the nutrients come from plant sources, with the exception of the zinc and iron which are trace metals found in soil. Iron and zinc also require further processing which is why they are classified as ‘synthetic’.

Understanding The Ingredients in Essential 8

Why do we focus on these specific nutrients? Each nutrient in Essential 8 has such a remarkable role to play in human health – they are also some of the most common deficiencies.

The intention with Essential 8 was to have people feeling their absolute best – and this is done by ensuring we are getting optimal levels of these essential nutrients.

We’ve broken down each nutrient for a better understanding of what its functions are in the body. Let’s take a closer look:

Each Essential 8 eimele softgel™ capsule* contains:

- Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) 500IU

- Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) 125mcg

- Algae omega oil 300mg

- EPA 45mg

- DHA 90mg

- Zinc (zinc glycinate) 6mg

- Iron (ferrous bisglycinate chelate) 6mg

- Selenium (selenomethionine) 35mcg

- Calcium (calcium carbonate) 125mg

*Our animal-free eimele-softgel capsules are made from plant-based ingredients and do not contain any carrageenan.

Omega-3

What is omega-3?

Omega-3 is a type of polyunsaturated, essential fatty acid. Being essential refers to the need for this type of fat to be regularly replaced through the diet as the body cannot make its own.

Two essential omega-3 fatty acids are particularly important – eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, or EPA and DHA for short. The bulk of the scientific evidence behind why omega-3 fats are so beneficial to health lies with the EPA and DHA components.

Why is omega-3 so important?
Omega-3 essential fats make up the bulk of every single cell membrane. Without omega-3 fats, cells wouldn’t be able to function properly. (Harvard)

The brain needs adequate amounts of omega-3 for healthy cognitive function. In fact, higher omega-3 levels are associated with better cognitive performance. (Barnes 2021)

During foetal development and into adolescence, omega-3 fats are needed in higher quantities to support the needs of the developing brain, eyes and nervous system. (Coletta, 2010; Echeverria, 2017)

Omega-3 fatty acids can also be beneficial to heart health. They have been shown to lower triglyceride levels while also increasing the protective “good” cholesterol known as high-density lipoprotein (HDL). (Chaddha, 2015)

The source
Our omega-3 is sourced from 100% fermented, non-GMO algae with zero impact on the marine ecosystem. Algae oil is a plant-derived source of EPA and DHA which also contains other beneficial fatty acids.

Is algae a good source of omega-3? Microalgal oil supplements have been shown to increase omega-3 levels in the blood. This source is therefore considered to be an effective replacement for standard fish oil supplements. (Lane, 2022)

Why do you need to supplement omega-3?
As an essential fat, omega-3 needs to be replaced regularly through diet. Unfortunately, the modern diet is not only low in beneficial omega-3 fat, but it’s also high in inflammation-causing omega-6 fatty acids. Therefore, the need to ensure we get plenty of omega-3 fats in our diet is even greater than ever before. (Innes, 2018)

Interesting facts about omega-3

- Omega-3 fatty acids are famously found in deep-sea cold-water fish like salmon. Interestingly though, these fish obtain their omega-3 from microalgae (CSIRO) – so why not get it directly from the source?

- You might be wondering about other plant sources of omega-3 fats. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is a type of essential fatty acid found in plant foods such as chia, flaxseed and walnuts. While ALA can usually be converted in the body to EPA and DHA, a number of competing factors mean that the conversion rate is very low. (Burdge, 2006)

Vitamin D3

What is vitamin D3?

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, which means that it requires fat to be broken down and utilised. Fat-soluble vitamins can also be stored in the fat cells for later use.

Vitamin D is synthesised by the skin following sun exposure and is then converted by the liver and kidneys into ‘active vitamin D’ or calcitriol. (NHMRC Vitamin D)

There are two types of vitamin D – vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) – found in plants such as mushrooms, and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) – through sun exposure to skin, along with animal sources such as fatty fish. (NHMRC vitamin D)

Why is vitamin D3 so important?
Vitamin D has a wide range of important functions within the human body. Most notably, vitamin D supports calcium absorption which helps to maintain healthy teeth and bones. Getting enough vitamin D alongside calcium, exercise and a healthy diet can help to reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis. (Jin, 2018)

When it comes to immune function, vitamin D is essential. Vitamin D supports the production of pathogen-fighting immune cells, while also reducing the risk of damage by inflammation-causing white blood cells. (Cannell, 2006)

The source
Our vitamin D3 is produced from a 100% non-GMO algae source. It is a completely plant-sourced vitamin D3 which has significantly greater bioavailability than vitamin D2. (Vitamin D3V)

Why do you need to supplement vitamin D3?
Despite the main source of vitamin D – sunlight – being free and accessible to almost everyone, more than half of the world’s population has insufficient levels. It’s also estimated that roughly 1 billion people across the globe have a clinical vitamin D deficiency. (Nair, 2012; Al-Daghri, 2015)

Why is low vitamin D so prevalent? Lifestyle (i.e. more time spent indoors) and environment (air pollution) have resulted in a significant drop in sun exposure. (Nair, 2012; Al-Daghri, 2015) Dietary intake of vitamin D also tends to be low across the board and can be influenced by a number of other factors not just whether or not you eat animal products, but how much time you spend outdoors, if you wear sunscreen, even weight can have an impact on vitamin D levels.

Interesting facts about vitamin D3

- In Australia, vitamin D levels have been shown to sharply decline during the winter months. At the end of the winter, 36% of Australians were vitamin D deficient, compared to just 14% at the end of the summer. (ABS)

- Darker skin pigment makes it more difficult for the body to synthesise vitamin D via sunlight exposure. (Skin Health Institute)

- As well as being a vitamin, D3 is also considered a hormone that plays many important roles in the body, including in the endocrine (hormonal) system. (Your Hormones)

Vitamin B12

What is B12?

B12 is an essential nutrient, which means that your body can’t manufacture its own. It also belongs to the category of vitamins known as ‘water-soluble vitamins’ – water is required for the breakdown of this type of vitamin. Water-soluble vitamins are also not stored in the body tissue. This is part of the reason why it can be so easy to develop a deficiency – B12 needs to be consumed regularly in the diet or supplementation to keep levels optimal.

Why is B12 so important?
The main function of this B vitamin is to help with the formation of red blood cells, but it is also vital to energy production inside the body’s cells. (Karipiperi 2010)

The nervous system also needs B12 as it is essential for maintaining all aspects of a healthy central nervous system, including the brain, peripheral nerves and the spinal cord. (Serin, 2019)

The source
Vitamin B12 supplements can come from a range of different sources. We’ve chosen to use cyanocobalamin which has been produced by the process of fermentation. Cyanocobalamin is a variation of B12 that is absorbed 44% better than one of the other common types of B12 called methylcobalamin, or activated B12.

Why do you need to supplement B12?
Vitamin B12 is only found in animal foods, which is why it can be challenging to maintain optimal levels on a plant-based diet. However, those on a plant-based diet are not the only ones who need to supplement B12. In fact, a large study of 3,000 American adults found that 39% were B12 deficient. (Schupbach, 2017; Tucker, 2000)

Interesting facts about vitamin B12

- B12 is made from microbes that cover animals and the earth, rather than being produced from the animal itself. In the days before sanitisation, B12 would have been abundant! (Nutrition Facts, 2022)

- As we age, our ability to absorb and break down B12 from the diet declines. This is due to physical changes in the digestive tract, as well as a reduction in hydrochloric (stomach) acid required to break nutrients down. (Stover, 2010)

Iron

What is iron?

Iron is an essential mineral that can be found in both plant and animal sources. The plant source of iron has a different name, it’s referred to as ‘non-haem’ iron, while ‘haem iron’ comes from animal sources. What’s the difference? Aside from their origins, haem iron is considered to be better absorbed by the body. However, non-haem sources of iron are able to better regulate the absorption of iron – meaning the body only takes what is needed. Since iron at high levels can cause toxicity, this is a key difference. (Hayat, 2014; Cooper, 2020)

Why is iron so important?
The main job of iron in the human body is to carry oxygen around the body – it does this by using a protein in the red blood cells called haemoglobin. Haemoglobin carries oxygen from the lungs to the tissues throughout the body, allowing the cells to produce energy. (Marengo-Rowe, 2006)

Iron deficiency impacts the formation of red blood cells and their ability to transport oxygen around the body, resulting in tiredness and fatigue. (Marengo-Rowe, 2006)

The source
Eimele’s source of iron is a synthesised iron (II) glycinate. This form of iron is attached to an amino acid called glycine. Glycine helps to protect the iron from oxidative damage while also ensuring the iron is well absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. (INCHEM)

Why do you need to supplement iron?
If your current diet is low in iron, it may be necessary to use a supplement to ensure you meet the RDI. Although there is an abundance of plant sources of iron, it can be difficult to fix pre-existing low iron with diet alone. Certain factors, including caffeine consumption, gastrointestinal disorders and the presence of phytates in plant sources of iron can all lead to poor iron absorption.

Interesting facts about iron

- Iron absorption can be enhanced by including a source of vitamin C at the same time. You might like to include a squeeze of lemon in water to help boost your iron.

- Separate your iron-rich foods and iron supplements from your caffeine consumption – coffee and black tea reduce the absorption of vital nutrients, including iron, calcium and zinc. (Sung, 2018)

Zinc

What is zinc?

Zinc is a vital trace mineral required for a wide range of actions throughout the body. It is found primarily in animal sources, but can also be found in legumes, nuts, seeds and whole grains. (Harvard School of Public Health – Zinc)

Zinc accumulates in body tissues over time, with the main storage sites being skeletal muscle, bones, the liver and skin. As an essential mineral, zinc needs to be replaced regularly through the diet and zinc losses occur every day regardless of health status. (Maares, 2020)

Why is zinc so important?
Zinc plays a major role in activating a variety of enzymes in the body. Enzymes are proteins that create chemical reactions, so without zinc, many of these vital processes can’t take place. (Harvard)

In order to maintain healthy skin and support wound healing, zinc intake needs to be optimal. In fact, the skin contains nearly 6% of the body’s total zinc stores. (Gupta, 2014)

Hair, skin and nails are all comprised of a protein called keratin that relies on zinc for healthy production. (Betsy, 2013)

A healthy immune system requires zinc to perform important tasks such as keeping infections at bay. (Prasad, 2008)

Zinc is vital to energy metabolism, which is the process of how the body produces energy from the foods we eat. (Yang, 2017)

The source
Eimele’s source of zinc comes from synthesised zinc glycinate. Zinc glycinate is a combination of the mineral zinc and the amino acid glycine. Glycine helps to enhance the absorption of zinc in the digestive tract. Zinc glycinate has been shown to have a greater bioavailability compared to inorganic zinc compounds such as zinc sulphate. (Liu, 2021)

Why do you need to supplement zinc?
As one of the most prevalent deficiencies worldwide, around 17.3% of people are not getting enough zinc in their diet. (Wessells, 2012)

Many people are at risk of inadequate zinc status for a variety of reasons. A whole food, plant-based diet is likely to have a lower overall zinc intake – while there is zinc in plant foods, the bioavailability is less than in animal sources. This is due to the presence of phytates in plant foods sometimes referred to as ‘anti-nutrients’, phytates can block the absorption of zinc by the body. (Harvard; NHMRC)

Certain health conditions, such as gastrointestinal disorders, can also impact the absorption of zinc. (Harvard; NHMRC)

Interesting facts about zinc

- The Ancient Greeks had some idea of the power of zinc to heal the skin it was used as an ointment on wounds and to help protect new skin. (Harvard)

- Zinc is the second most abundant metal in the body and is required for nearly 100 important enzyme-based reactions. (Harvard; Medline Plus)

Calcium

What is calcium?

Calcium is an essential mineral that is also one of the most abundant minerals in the natural world. This mineral molecule is found attached to other chemical elements, depending on where it is sourced. Calcium is absorbed in the intestine with the help of vitamin D. (Zhang, 2010)

Why is calcium so important?
Just like in the natural environment where calcium is found in hard materials such as shells and coral, calcium in the human body helps to give strength and structure to body tissues, especially bones and teeth.

Calcium is also an electrolyte – electrolytes are responsible for making sure the muscles and nerves maintain a healthy function, among many other roles. (Shrimanker, 2021)

Getting enough calcium, along with a healthy diet and exercise, has been shown to reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis (bone loss) later in life. (NHMRC calcium)

The source
When it comes to how you get your calcium, bioavailability is the biggest factor. Calcium may be available as a high-dose supplement but is often attached to poor-quality compounds that prevent its absorption in the digestive tract.

Eimele’s source of calcium is the naturally occurring calcium carbonate. Calcium carbonate contains the highest amount of elemental calcium, as well as a higher bioavailability than many other forms of calcium on the market. (Harvard Calcium)

Why do you need to supplement calcium?
As an essential mineral, calcium needs to be regularly replaced through dietary sources. However, unlike some other essential minerals, the body does store calcium. Calcium stores can be pulled from the bones and used for other needs if dietary calcium intake is low. Eventually, this will lead to a clinical calcium deficiency, resulting in symptoms such as weak bones and teeth. (Medline Plus Calcium)

Calcium can be found in a range of animal and plant sources. As a large molecule, however, calcium can be difficult to digest. A number of factors can impact calcium absorption including health conditions involving the digestive tract, high caffeine consumption, certain medications, and low serum vitamin D levels. (Zhang; Harvard; Medline Plus)

Interesting facts about calcium

- The average human body contains around 1kg of calcium 99% of that is stored in the skeleton. (Pu, 2016)

- Calcium is abundant in plant sources, but with another hurdle to absorption – two compounds also found in plants called oxalic acid and phytic acid. These plant compounds or ‘anti-nutrients’ block the absorption of minerals such as calcium, iron and zinc. (Akter, 2020)

Selenium

What is selenium?

Selenium is an essential trace mineral, meaning that the body only requires a small amount to maintain healthy levels. As an essential mineral, it is vital to the human body and needs to be consumed regularly. (Harvard Selenium) Selenium is absorbed in the intestinal tract and stored mostly in the skeletal muscle. (Fairweather-Tait)

Why is selenium so important?
As an antioxidant, selenium helps to protect the body’s cells and tissues from free radical damage. Low antioxidant intake, including low selenium, can lead to an excessive type of free radical damage called oxidative stress. This is a process in the body in which healthy cells become damaged and unstable, potentially causing poor health outcomes. (Zakeri)

Selenium is essential to maintaining the healthy function of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland requires higher concentrations of selenium and is needed for the production and metabolism of thyroid hormones. As an antioxidant, selenium helps protect the thyroid from oxidative damage. (Ventura, 2017)

The source
Eimele’s source of selenium is in the form of selenomethionine – an organic selenium that is well absorbed and utilised by the human body. (NIH Selenium)

Why do we need to supplement selenium?
Around 1 billion people globally are thought to be selenium deficient. Selenium can only be found in foods that have been grown in selenium-rich soil – selenium soil content can vary from region to region, but many countries lack adequate selenium levels in the soil. (Lopes, 2017)

This can leave many people selenium deficient and in need of supplementation.

Interesting facts about selenium

- The thyroid gland has the highest amount of selenium per gram of tissue compared to all the other organs of the human body. (Ventura, 2017)

- Selenium tends to be highest in volcanic soils. (Dagnew, 2018)

The Takeaway

Essential 8 is a multinutrient supplement that acts as your insurance policy, filling any nutritional gaps to support optimal health and wellbeing. Our focus on safety, efficacy and innovation means that you can feel confident in including Essential 8 as part of your everyday health regimen. With our science-backed, bioavailable plant-based sources of each nutrient, you know you’re getting the best that nature has to offer.

We would love to hear from you!

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References

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TGA & FDA claims

The TGA is Australia’s regulatory agency that operates under the Department of Health. They ensure all therapeutic products are safe and effective and do not make false or dangerous advertising claims.

In the United States, the Federal Drug Administration or FDA oversees the quality and safety of therapeutic goods.

Essential 8 is TGA and FDA-approved, ensuring a high level of safety and confidence in the product.

The TGA have approved certain therapeutic claims about Essential 8 – this means that these are scientifically proven claims about its health benefits.

Here is a list of the TGA-approved claims for Essential 8 and associated clinical evidence:

Therapeutic claim	Nutrient/s responsible	Reference
Maintain/support bone health	Vitamin D3 supports calcium absorption to maintain healthy bones. Calcium is stored in bones and provides strength and structure.	Jin, J. (2018). Vitamin D and calcium supplements for preventing fractures. JAMA, 319(15):1630. National Health and Medical Research Council Calcium. Updated April 2014, accessed July 2022 from https://www.nrv.gov.au/nutrients/calcium
Aid/assist healthy red blood cell production	A lack of vitamin B12 and iron can lead to poorly functioning red blood cells that reduce their ability to carry oxygen throughout the body.	Karipiperi, K., Gousis, C. & Papaioannidou, P. (2010). The role of vitamin B12 in DNA modulation and mechanisms. Front. Pharmacol. Conference Abstract: 8th Southeast European Congress on Xenobiotic Metabolism and Toxicity – XEMET. Marengo-Rowe, A.J. (2006). Structure-function relations of human hemoglobins. Proc (Bayl Univ Med Cent), 19(3):239-245
Maintain/support healthy cardiovascular system function	Omega-3 reduces inflammation in the heart and blood vessels and supports vasodilation (relaxing of the blood vessels for blood flow).	Khan, S.U., Lone, A.N., Khan, M.S., Virani, S.S., Blumenthal, R.S., et al. (2021). Effect of omega-3 fatty acids on cardiovascular outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. eClinical Medicine, 38:100997.
Maintain/support healthy thyroid gland function	Selenium and iodine are required for thyroid hormone production. Selenium also acts as an antioxidant to protect the thyroid gland.	Ventura, M., Melo, M. & Carrilho, F. (2017). Selenium and thyroid disease: from pathophysiology to treatment. Int J Endocrinol, 2017:1297658. National Health and Medical Research Council. Iodine. Updated April 2014, accessed July 2022 from https://www.nrv.gov.au/nutrients/iodine
Maintain/support immune system health, maintain/support healthy immune system function	Vitamin B12 helps to regulate the cells of the immune system, including their production and activity. Vitamin D3 regulates the production and activity of immune cells and helps to reduce inflammation. Zinc is vital for the production and function of immune cells that help to fight off infection	Mikkelsen, K. & Apostolopoulos, V. (2019). Vitamin B12, folic acid and the immune system. Nutrition and Immunity: pp.103-104. Cannell, J.J., Vieth, R., Umhai, J.C., Holick, M.F., Grant, W.B., et al. (2006). Epidemic influenza and vitamin D. Epidemiology & Infection, 134(6):1129-40. Prasad, A.S. (2008). Zinc in human health: effect of zinc on immune cells. Mol Med, 14(5-6)
Maintain/support cognitive function/mental function, maintain/support brain function, Maintain/support brain health	Vitamin D3 is involved in multiple brain processes, including information processing and neurotransmitter activity. Omega-3 is a major component of brain cells and has been shown to help with neuron function, reduce inflammation and prevent cell death.	Scientific American. Does vitamin D improve brain function? Written November 2009, accessed August 2022 from https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/does-d-make-a-difference/ Robinson, J.G., Ijioma, N. & Harris, W. (2010). Omega-3 fatty acids and cognitive function in women. Womens Health (Lond Engl), 6(1):119
Maintain/support reproductive system health	Zinc and selenium are necessary for healthy sperm production and development. Zinc is required in the female reproductive system to support cell differentiation and healthy ovulation.	Fallah, A., Mohammad-Hasani, A. & Hosseinzadeh Colagar, A. (2018). Zinc is an essential element for male fertility a review of zn roles in men’s health, germination, sperm quality and fertilization. J Reprod Infertil, 19(2):69-81. Hyder Qazi, I., Angel, C., Yang, H., Zoidis, E., Pan, B., et al. (2019). Role of selenium and selenoproteins in male reproductive function: a review of past and present evidences. Antioxidants, 8(8):268. Nasiadek, M., Stragierowicz, J., Klimczak, M. & Kilanowicz, A. (2020). The role of zinc in selected female reproductive system disorders. Nutrients, 12(8):2464.
Maintain/support skin health	Zinc is required for wound healing and keratin production for healthy skin.	Gupta, M., Mahajan, V.K., Mehta, K.S. & Chauhan, P.S. (2014). Zinc therapy in dermatology: a review. Dermatol Res Pract, 2014:709152.
Antioxidant/reduce free radicals formed in the body	Vitamin B12 is needed for mitochondrial energy production within the cells. Zinc helps with energy metabolism and also aids in the restoration of impaired energy metabolism.	Karipiperi, K., Gousis, C. & Papaioannidou, P. (2010). The role of vitamin B12 in DNA modulation and mechanisms. Front. Pharmacol. Conference Abstract: 8th Southeast European Congress on Xenobiotic Metabolism and Toxicity – XEMET. Yang, X., Wang, H., Huang, C., He, X., Xu, W., et al. (2017). Zinc enhances the cellular energy supply to improve cell motility and restore impaired energetic metabolism in a toxic environment induced by OTA. Nature, 7:14669.
Maintain/support healthy eyesight/vision	Omega-3 helps to maintain the structure and function of the retina and prevent inflammation.	Zhang, A.C., Singh, S., Craig, J.P. & Downie, L.E (2020). Omega-3 fatty acids and eye health: opinions and self-reported practice behaviours of optometrists in Australia and New Zealand. Nutrients, 12(4):1179.
Maintain/support general health and wellbeing	Omega-3 is required for cell membrane function, as well as brain, heart and eye health and function. Omega-3 is also necessary for reducing inflammation throughout the body. Calcium is an electrolyte and is required for healthy muscle and nerve function. Selenium acts as an antioxidant in the body, helping to protect cells, tissues and organs from free radical damage.	Harvard School of Public Health. Omega-3 fatty acids: an essential contribution. N.d., accessed July 2022 from https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/ nutritionsource/what-should-you-eat/fats-and-cholesterol/types-of-fat/omega-3-fats/ Barnes, S., Chowdhury, S., Gatto, N.M., Fraser, G.E. & Lee, G.J. (2021). Omega-3 fatty acids are associated with bloodbrain barrier integrity in a healthy aging population. Brain and Behaviour, 11(8):e2273. Shrimanker, I. & Bhattarai, S. Electrolytes. Updated July 2021 in Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022. Zakeri, N., Rezaei Kelishadi, R., Asbaghi, O., Naeini, F., Afsharfar, M., et al. (2021). Selenium supplementation and oxidative stress: a review. PharmaNutrition, 1:100263.
Maintain/support hair health	Zinc is required for the production of keratin – the protein that is part of the make up of hair and gives it strength.	Betsy, A., Binitha, M.P. & Sarita, S. (2013). Zinc deficiency is associated with hypothyroidism: an overlooked cause of severe alopecia. Int J Trichology, 5(1):40- 42.
Maintain/support healthy teeth	Calcium gives strength and structure to body tissues, including teeth. Vitamin D3 aids calcium absorption and is therefore considered vital for healthy teeth.	Shrimanker, I. & Bhattarai, S. Electrolytes. Updated July 2021 in Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022. Jin, J. (2018). Vitamin D and calcium supplements for preventing fractures. JAMA,
Aid/assist/helps connective tissue production/formation.	Optimal zinc levels are required for connective tissue repair.	Franzen, L.E., Ghassemifar, M.R. (1992). Connective tissue repair in zinc deficiency. An ultrastructural morphometric study in perforated mesentery in rats. Eur J Surg, 158(6-7):333-7.