About Supplements
Written by the Plenthera team (orthomolecularly trained). Scientifically reviewed in May 2026. Last updated: May 28, 2026.
The Dutch market for dietary supplements is large, opaque, and not always of high quality. Plenthera deliberately works with a limited number of strong brands — not 50 magnesium products, but the three best-substantiated forms. On this overview page, you will find a summary of our supplement categories, classified by area of effect. For those who know what they are looking for: go directly to the specific sub-category. For those who want to explore: read on.
On this pageOur supplement sub-categories · By functional area · How does Plenthera select supplements? · Frequently asked questions · Combine with · Sources
Our supplement sub-categories
- Vitamins & Supplements — the main category — multivitamins, vitamin D, B-complex, C
- Minerals — magnesium, zinc, iron, calcium, iodine and trace elements
- Omega 3 — fish and algae oil for heart, brain and eyes
- Probiotics — for gut flora and digestive balance
- Enzymes — digestive and systemic enzymes
- Amino acids — L-glutamine, BCAA, glycine and specialized amino acids
- Superfoods & Mushrooms — chlorella, spirulina, Lion's Mane, Reishi
- Collagen — marine, bovine and vegan boosters
By functional area
- Immune & Resistance — vitamin D, C, zinc, beta-glucans and mushrooms
- Energy & Fatigue — B-vitamins, iron, magnesium, CoQ10
- Sleep & Relaxation — magnesium, glycine, valerian, L-theanine
- Brain & Focus — omega 3, B-complex, Lion's Mane, phosphatidylserine
- Heart & Vessels — CoQ10, K2, omega 3, magnesium, nattokinase
- Digestion & Gut — enzymes, probiotics, glutamine, slippery elm
- Stress & Adrenal — ashwagandha, B-complex, magnesium, adaptogens
- Beautiful Skin from Within — collagen, hyaluronic acid, biotin, vitamin C and A
How does Plenthera select supplements?
Our criteria are strict: (1) form and dosage must be correct — not symbolic doses but what research has shown; (2) bioavailability: chelated minerals, activated B-vitamins, hydrolyzed peptides; (3) purity: certificate of analysis reports available, no unnecessary additives; (4) EU conformity: EFSA claims used correctly, no 'miracle' marketing; (5) price-quality ratio: premium doesn't have to be expensive.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between vitamins and supplements?
Vitamins are one specific group of micronutrients. Supplements is a broader collective term for all concentrated food products: vitamins, minerals, proteins, herbal extracts, omega 3, enzymes, probiotics and so on.
Do I need supplements?
For most people, a varied diet covers basic needs. For specific groups (vegans, pregnant women, elderly, athletes, people with a chronic condition) or for a specific goal (sleep, energy, focus), supplementation can measurably contribute.
What are 'orthomolecular' supplements?
Orthomolecular literally means 'correct molecule'. The orthomolecular concept (Pauling, 1968) uses higher dosages for optimal cell function than the RDH (which focuses on deficiency prevention). Works mainly through qualified therapists.
Which brand of supplements is best?
That depends on your goal and budget. Doctor's Best and Vitals are broad, reliable brands; NOW Foods is more affordable; Plent and Big Food are niche brands (skin and ancestral health, respectively); Arthur Andrew Medical specializes in enzyme formulas. On the brand pages, we explain their positioning.
Combine with other categories
Our supplement category touches on all wellness themes:
- Vitamins & Supplements — the central category
- Sport & Nutrition — for sport-specific supplementation
- Beauty & More — skin, hair and nail support
- Superfoods & Mushrooms — wholefood supplementation
- Proteins & Meal Replacements — protein as a basic supplement
Sources & references
- Commodities Act Decree on Food Supplements (NL) — legal framework
- EFSA — Regulation (EU) 432/2012 (health claims)
- Health Council of the Netherlands — Nutritional Standards Netherlands
- Nutrition Centre — supplementation advice
Disclaimer: This text is intended for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Dietary supplements are not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. If in doubt, always consult your doctor or an orthomolecular therapist.