Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here is a selection of frequently asked questions. If your question remains unanswered, please feel free to contact us by email.

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Order, Shipping & Returns

Shipping costs:
- Germany: €4.99 flat rate — free for orders over €49
- EU countries: €10 flat rate per order
- Third countries (worldwide): €20 flat rate per order

Delivery times:
- Within Germany: 2–3 business days
- EU countries: +4 days (approx. 6–7 business days)
- Worldwide (non-EU): +15 days

Shipping is handled by GLS, Deutsche Post, DHL, or a freight forwarder — depending on the size of your order. The delivery period begins on the day after the contract is concluded. Deliveries are not made on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays.

Should an item be temporarily unavailable, we will inform you immediately. For deliveries outside the EU, additional customs duties, taxes, and fees may apply.

Details in our /policies/shipping-policy.

The following payment methods are available to you at checkout:

- Credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Maestro)
- SEPA direct debit — directly and securely from your bank account
- PayPal — fast and secure processing
- Klarna instant bank transfer — online banking directly at checkout
- Klarna invoice — 14 days payment term after receipt of goods
- Klarna installment purchase — flexible in 3 installments or monthly
- Apple Pay and Google Pay (on compatible devices)
- Shop Pay — Shopify's 1-Click checkout, especially fast for recurring orders

All payments are encrypted and processed according to PCI-DSS standards — your data is secure.

After completing your order, we will process it immediately and dispatch it within our delivery times.

You have a 14-day right of withdrawal from the date of receipt of the goods — without giving any reasons.

How to withdraw:
Send us a clear statement by letter, fax or email:

▎ sanitas – biologische Nahrungsergänzungs- und Heilmittel GmbH & Co. KG
▎ Billerbecker Str. 67, 32839 Steinheim
▎ Tel.: 05233 / 93899 · Fax: 05233 / 997084
▎ E-Mail: info@sanitas.de

You can use the /policies/refund-policy, but you don't have to.

Returns: Return the goods within 14 days of your withdrawal. You bear the costs of the return shipment. We will refund all payments (including original standard shipping costs) no later than 14 days after receipt of the withdrawal using the payment method you
originally used.

Excluded from the right of withdrawal are:
- Opened products and sealed hygiene articles whose seal was removed after delivery
- Books that are no longer shrink-wrapped
- Consumers residing outside the EU (at the time of contract conclusion)

You can find all details in our complete /policies/refund-policy.

Once your order has been shipped, you will receive a shipping confirmation from us via email with a tracking number. You can use this to track your package directly with the shipping service provider:

- GLS: https://gls-pakete.de/sendungsverfolgung
- DHL: https://www.dhl.de/de/privatkunden/pakete-empfangen/verfolgen.html
- Deutsche Post: https://www.deutschepost.de/sendung/simpleQuery.html

Haven't received a shipping confirmation? First, check your spam folder, then contact our customer service at info@sanitas.de.

We are happy to help you personally:

- Email: info@sanitas.de (fastest response)
- Phone: 05233 / 93899 (Mon–Fri, business hours)
- Fax: 05233 / 997084
- Mail: sanitas GmbH & Co. KG, Billerbecker Str. 67, 32839 Steinheim

Our response time is usually 1–2 business days. For questions about your order, please have your order number ready — this speeds up processing.

For general questions about our products, feel free to browse our /pages/haeufige-fragen or check out the knowledge base at https://www.sanitas.de.

Health & Complaints (12)

Our gut plays an important role in processing stress. During tension, digestive processes are slowed down by the sympathetic nervous system. Adrenaline activates nerve cells in the intestinal wall, which are connected to our brain. Blood flow to the intestinal lining deteriorates. This can in turn lead to local inflammation. Important nutrients such as vitamin B6, B12, or folic acid are then less well absorbed by the intestinal lining. This leads to a reduced serotonin production in the brain. The consequences: sleep disorders, depressive moods. But our immune system is also affected by stress-related chronic inflammatory processes and the associated disturbed intestinal flora. Many chronic diseases can result from this, e.g., irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, or even chronic nasal-sinus infections (sinusitis).

A real "long-running favorite" in the truest sense of the word in summer and winter alike: Bladder infections! Many girls and young women suffer from constantly recurring bladder infections. If the infection spreads to the kidneys, antibiotics are essential. But for mild and uncomplicated chronic urinary tract infections (UTIs), there is also support from the green natural pharmacy that can help escape the "antibiotic spiral." Particularly noteworthy in this context are cranberries, also known as American cranberries. They are available as fresh fruit, as juice, but also as cranberry extract, e.g., in capsule or tablet form.

Women are more frequently affected by bladder infections than men. A chronic or recurrent bladder infection is defined as occurring twice in half a year or three times in a year. On behalf of the Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG), experts investigated whether herbal remedies could be an alternative to antibiotics for recurrent bladder infections. The evaluation of available studies 2) showed evidence of a benefit of cranberry compared to placebo – both in terms of the relapse rate and the time until the first recurrence.

2) Source: Press release Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care, IQWiG: Health Technology Assessment. "Bladder infection – Do herbal remedies help with recurrent bladder infections?"

With age or aging, nerve cells and cell functions are often lost. If this loss, i.e. the damage to our brain and nerve cells, is so great that our brain can no longer compensate for it, experts speak of a "neurodegenerative disease". Examples of neurodegenerative diseases include Alzheimer's and other dementias, Parkinson's, but also amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

The number of elderly people in our country is steadily increasing. Because these neurodegenerative diseases often go hand in hand with aging, they are considered one of the greatest medical and societal challenges of the coming decades. Already today, around 1.5 million people in Germany suffer from dementia and approx. 300,000 are affected by Parkinson's disease. Current estimates assume that by 2050, even approx. 152 million (!) people will suffer from dementia – and unfortunately, a cure is not (yet) in sight!

Scientists are therefore investigating whether and how one can – e.g. with an optimized lifestyle and a healthy diet – reduce the risk or severity of neurodegenerative diseases.

And now the “berry powers” come into play...

Flavonoids, such as anthocyanins and proanthocyanidins (PACs), which give berries their red, blue or purple color, have long been said to have positive effects on our cognitive abilities. A new study 1) by the University of East Anglia seems to corroborate this: It suggests that consuming cranberries could improve memory performance and brain function and lower cholesterol levels. In the study, a group of 60 cognitively healthy participants aged 50 to 80 years were divided into two halves: one half consumed freeze-dried cranberry powder daily for 12 weeks (equivalent to approx. 100g of fresh cranberries), while the other half took a placebo (i.e. a preparation without active ingredient, externally indistinguishable from the "real" product). The term "cognitive" comes from psychology and refers to those human functions that are related to perception, learning, remembering and thinking, i.e. human cognition and information processing.

Study leader Dr. David Vazour from the Faculty of Medicine at Norwich Medical School (UEA) in England says: "We found that participants who consumed the cranberry powder showed significantly improved episodic memory performance, in combination with improved circulation of essential nutrients such as oxygen and glucose to key parts of the brain that support cognition – especially memory consolidation and retrieval."

Furthermore, Dr. Vazour noted: "The cranberry group also showed a significant reduction in LDL or "bad" cholesterol, which is known to contribute to atherosclerosis, i.e. the thickening or hardening of the arteries caused by a build-up of plaque in the inner lining of an artery. This supports the hypothesis that cranberries can improve blood vessel health and partly contribute to improved cerebral blood flow and cognitive abilities."

"The results of this study are very encouraging, especially considering that a relatively short 12-week cranberry intervention could lead to significant improvements in memory and neural functions," concluded study leader Dr. Vazour.

1) Source: "Chronic consumption of Cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon) for 12 weeks improves episodic memory and regional brain perfusion in healthy older adults: A randomised, placebo-controlled, parallel-groups study"; Frontiers in Nutrition; May 19, 2022.

The gut plays an important role in defending against pathogens, and gut
health also directly affects our physical well-being and our psyche.
Gut bacteria process food and produce various vitamins, hormones, and
neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, which helps with depression. Thus,
they not only support the immune system and protect us from harmful
germs, but they also influence the communication between the brain and
the gut. The gut can therefore communicate with the brain via hormones
and neural connections, thereby controlling anxieties, feelings, learning
behavior, or cravings for certain substances. This is also referred to
as the "gut-brain axis." In people with depression, the bacterial
composition in the gut is often altered, and certain bacterial strains
are underrepresented. These can be enriched again, for example, by
consuming probiotic foods (probiotics). This then also improves mood,
as has been found in some studies. Our belly – and especially the gut –
actually reflects our emotions. They are involved in weighing different
options and react to stimuli. We also notice this when we decide "from
the gut" or when the thought of something unpleasant suddenly makes us
lose our appetite.

The lack of vitamins B1 and B12, in particular, can cause nerve damage. If a significant deficiency is detected (the laboratory or treating physician should always look at MCV/MCH values in addition to B12 levels), parenteral therapy by a physician, i.e., a direct injection or infusion into the bloodstream, is advisable. Later, depending on the cause, a maintenance therapy can be switched to. Overall, the administration of a vitamin B complex is recommended. In addition to a good supply of B vitamins, a balanced diet and sufficient exercise can also make an important contribution to improving quality of life and general well-being.

Irritable bowel syndrome is a functional chronic digestive disease
and has many names, e.g. functional diarrhea, nervous diarrhea,
vegetative neurosis, colon dyssynergy, colon spasms, spastic colon,
enterospasm, mucous colitis, mucomembranous colitis or irritable colon
syndrome. It is characterized by chronic or recurrent symptoms (e.g.
abdominal pain, flatulence), which are often accompanied by changes in
bowel habits (such as diarrhea).

The symptoms are so severe that they significantly impair the quality
of life of those affected. It can even go so far that every meal is
associated with fear for those affected. IBS often affects younger
people. In Germany, an estimated 5% - 20% of the population suffers from
IBS. Women are usually affected more frequently than men. IBS usually
occurs for the first time between the ages of 20 and 30, for example at
the beginning of university studies or when starting a career. The
typical symptoms are flatulence, diarrhea, constipation, cramping
abdominal pain, loss of appetite and discomfort. Not all symptoms have
to be present, and the severity of symptoms also varies greatly from
person to person. Since IBS is very much associated with shame, it can
be assumed that many people with their symptoms do not go to the doctor
and that the number of affected and suffering people is significantly
higher than 20%.

Our most important immune organ in the defense against viruses is our gut.
Therefore, we should treat and care for it "well". Antibiotics,
heavy metals, food toxins, intolerances and
dietary mistakes burden it in various ways. The consequences are
disturbances of the intestinal flora (dysbiosis), fungal colonization (candidiasis) or
holes in the intestinal lining ("leaky gut"). A stool analysis can
help to uncover these burdens. Building up the
mucosal flora (e.g., through suitable probiotics) should ideally
be preceded by a colon cleanse. Depending on the findings, nutritional counseling and a subsequent change in diet are usually also necessary.

Antibiotics have been and continue to be used too indiscriminately in both human and veterinary medicine. The frequent prescription of antibiotics, especially for viral flu-like infections, needs to be critically questioned, as antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections.

But what exactly is resistance?

Bacterial diseases can usually be treated effectively with antibiotics. Sometimes, however, bacteria become insensitive to antibiotics, meaning they become resistant, and the usual antibiotic medications are no longer effective. Infections with resistant bacteria are more difficult to treat, and even previously treatable infections can become life-threatening. In this context, secondary plant compounds (such as bioflavonoids, polyphenols, anthocyanins) play a special role in naturopathy, as many of these substances possess immune-strengthening, anti-inflammatory, and germ-inhibiting properties. These bioactive plant ingredients, also known as "phytamines" or "phytonutrients," have increasingly become the focus of medical research and studies in recent years.

The gut flora, also known as the microbiome, consists of over 100 million
bacteria, fungi, and viruses. It is significantly influenced by our diet
and lifestyle. A disturbed microbiome is associated with a variety of
diseases such as chronic inflammatory bowel diseases, diabetes, fatty liver,
high blood pressure, dementia, and tumor diseases. We therefore have it in our
hands to do something good for our gut health and thus for our general
well-being.

People suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may have difficulty controlling bloating or bowel movements. Severe stomach and intestinal cramps are common. Those affected often severely restrict themselves out of shame and avoid social contact. Nature offers some supportive herbal home remedies for the typical IBS symptoms.

The intestinal barrier is our shield between the outside and the inside. It allows "good" substances to pass through and prevents "bad" substances (e.g., toxins) from entering. If our intestinal barrier does not function correctly, i.e., there is a disturbance in its permeability, experts speak of "leaky gut."

Factors at various levels contribute to the correct functioning of the intestinal barrier:

Immunological barrier => Immune cells

Physical barrier => Intestinal mucosal cells

Microbial barrier => Intestinal flora

Hippocrates (approx. 460 to 370 BC), the most famous physician of antiquity and the founder of modern medicine, already said, “Death sits in the gut.” This statement and its continued use today highlight the significant importance of the gut as one of our central organs. The human gut is up to 7 m long in total and consists of the small and large intestines. It is the largest internal organ in humans. Experts refer to it as a superorgan because it is a true multi-talent: in addition to its function as an excretory organ – approximately 30 tons of food pass through our gut during our lifetime – the majority of our immune system (approx. 70%) is also located in the gut. It plays a central role in immune defense and the production of vitamins and neurotransmitters. The gut is also called the “abdominal brain” because it contains approximately 100 million nerve cells that control our digestion, release hormones, and also send pain signals to the brain. In short... A healthy gut equals a healthy mind! A holistic therapeutic approach is completely inconceivable without considering the symbiosis in the gut. Unfortunately, the gut, in particular, suffers from the "modern lifestyle" with much stress, denatured food, a lot of sugar, and hasty, mostly unnecessary use of antibiotics. The result is a negative change in the eubiotic intestinal flora. This can then lead to various degrees of intestinal dysbiosis, intestinal mycoses (intestinal fungi), bloating, flatulence, mucosal irritations, and digestive and stool irregularities. The state of the intestinal flora is crucial for the gut's function as a toxin elimination organ.

There is also a connection between the state of our microbiome and susceptibility to cystitis because antibiotic therapy in conjunction with cystitis can set off a vicious cycle: antibiotics impair the "intestinal microbiome," formerly known as intestinal flora. As a result, substances protecting the bladder mucosa can only be produced insufficiently, and the bladder mucosa, in turn, becomes more susceptible to bacterial colonization. Chronic UTIs can develop. It is, therefore, always advisable, in addition to the ideally naturopathic treatment of a simple, uncomplicated bladder infection, to maintain the health of the microbiome and care for the gut. Good options for this include, for example, probiotic foods or dietary supplements with lactic acid-producing live bacteria.

Products (13)

Refrigeration is not necessary. It is particularly important for capsules and tablets that they absorb as little moisture as possible after opening and are not exposed to high temperatures or direct sunlight. We recommend a dry, dark place for storage. For liquid products (such as grapefruit seed extract or hemp oil), storage in the refrigerator can positively influence shelf life, but is not strictly necessary.

As a general rule, we recommend refraining entirely from administering dietary supplements to infants and young children between 0 and 5 years of age, unless medication has been prescribed by a doctor. For children between 5 and 12 years of age, we recommend half of our normal dosage recommendation.

Animal welfare is important to us. That is why many of our products, with
few exceptions, are vegetarian, vegan and – where possible – even organic.

We recommend taking 15 drops 3 times a day, preferably half an hour
before meals. If you like, you can also take our liquid grapefruit seed
extracts undiluted. Alternatively, you can add the drops to half a
glass of water and drink it. However, you will always find a
recommended dosage on the label, also for other CitroBiotic products
such as organic grapefruit seed extract capsules or organic grapefruit
seed extract tablets.

Stress, hectic pace, performance pressure, and sensory overload often dominate our lives. When one no longer feels up to the demands, the body and mind can no longer adapt sufficiently. Then, plants like rhodiola are in demand.

Neurotropic vitamins and adaptogenic plant extracts (like rhodiola) can be good "nerve food," or "brain food" as it's also called in modern German. The group of B vitamins comprises eight water-soluble vitamins. Vitamin B1 supports the body's functions of the nervous system and strengthens nerves and muscles. Additionally, magnesium contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue and to the normal function of the nervous system. For this reason, the combination of rhodiola extract with vitamin B1 and magnesium is a sensible formulation.

Quinton Hypertonic was developed to naturally compensate for the body's mineral deficiencies. The elements listed in Mendeleev's periodic table are essential for a healthy metabolism. It has an immediate invigorating effect and is very beneficial for fatigue caused by physical and mental exertion. It is also very beneficial for many symptoms that often result from a deficiency of vital minerals (e.g., anorexia, asthenia, malnutrition, osteoporosis, orthostatic syncope, and many more).

The qualitative composition of the micro-minerals in
Quinton-Isotonic is proportionally identical to the extracellular
fluid (internal environment). Natural isotonics determine the
composition, weight and diverse properties of
Quinton Isotonic. It contains all elements of the periodic table.
Quinton Isotonic was developed for optimal regulation of
homeostasis.

It serves natural rehydration, is a complete supplement
of ionic substances and can support the restoration of cellular
osmosis.

It always makes sense to use food supplements that are of natural origin. These usually come without unnecessary additives and can be metabolized more easily by the body. In particular, preparations with plant extracts are more than synergistic multi-substance mixtures. Food supplements that are formulated and produced organically, vegan, sustainably and holistically can address the natural regenerative powers in humans very well with their inherent life processes.

No, all sanitas products are GMO-free (Genetically Modified Organisms). In addition, the organic regulation prohibits the use of genetically modified substances in organic products. You can therefore be sure that you will receive a high-quality and GMO-free product from us as a German manufacturer.

You can use these values as a general guide:

1 g CitroBiotic = 20 drops

1 ml CitroBiotic = 22 drops

This depends on the type and properties of the product, but
they generally have a shelf life of at least 12-24 months. The
best-before date (BBD) and lot number are located on the
packaging. Optimal storage is dry, protected from light, and not too
warm, below 25°C. The printed BBD is based on the
raw materials used, which naturally vary in their shelf life.

We generally take all findings regarding the quality of teas as an
opportunity to further optimize the extensive joint quality assurance
measures. The difficulties and challenges lie in the fact that there are
over 1000 different types of pesticides on the market, such as the
controversial glyphosate. The analytical search for residues is very
complex and expensive due to this variety.

However, there is a big difference whether a food item is consumed
completely (e.g. fruits and vegetables) or whether it is only consumed
extractively. Even with a relatively high pollutant load, only about 10%
of the pollutants from the leaves transfer into the ready-to-drink
beverage. While this is reassuring, it is still unsatisfactory.

An alternative here is teas from organic cultivation. Our organic teas
all come from controlled organic cultivation (k.B.A.). Therefore,
pesticide contamination can generally be ruled out. Compliance with the
strict organic guidelines in the cultivation areas is ensured by the
responsible organic control bodies on site. Our organic control body is
GfRS, the Society for Resource Protection, in Göttingen. Our organic
control body number is DE-ÖKO-039.

And for all our teas (including teas from conventional cultivation), of
course: Every tea that is distributed through a wholesaler must have
already been analyzed in the country of production itself. This means
that the wholesaler commissions internationally certified laboratories
directly on site in China, Japan, etc. to check the respective tea for
residues. If a tea exceeds the limit values, it may not be imported into
the EU.

We source our teas through a renowned German tea importer based in
Bremen, who has been in the tea business for many decades and also
regularly inspects the tea plantations on site. In addition, our
products are also regularly inspected by the state food surveillance
responsible for us. So far, all controls have been without analytical
complaints.

Independent laboratories in Germany regularly check the quality of our products. Furthermore, we and our products are regularly inspected by government supervisory authorities.

Our sanitas products are manufactured in Germany in compliance with the strictest pharmaceutical and hygienic requirements according to GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) and HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points).

We also carefully select the raw materials for our products, focusing on quality. For example, we regularly visit the plantations in Southern Europe where our organic grapefruits for our organic grapefruit seed extract grow and maintain constant communication with the farmers of the cooperative.

Raw Materials & Micronutrients (11)

Absolutely, because a deficiency of certain vitamins, minerals, and trace elements can worsen sleep quality. And the symptom "sleep deprivation" itself already increases our need for certain micronutrients like Vitamin C or Vitamin B1.

Our body needs Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) to convert the amino acid tryptophan into 5-hydroxytryptophan. 5-hydroxytryptophan is the precursor to serotonin, and only if there is enough calming serotonin present can our body produce sufficient melatonin. Melatonin is a sleep hormone.

Vitamin B1 also plays a central role. It is directly related to the neurotransmitters serotonin, acetylcholine, and adrenaline and is considered the nerve vitamin. Even a slight deficiency can significantly worsen our sleep quality.

For sleep disorders, relaxation methods (e.g., breathing and meditation techniques, Qi Gong), healthy sleep hygiene (no stimulants like alcohol or nicotine after midday, a sleeping environment that is not too warm but dark, avoiding rich meals at least two hours before bedtime), and proven essential oils like bergamot or cedarwood oil can also be helpful.

The natural bioflavonoids are a valuable ingredient in grapefruit seed extract and just one of several quality features. The flavonoid content alone says little about the quality and effectiveness of a GSE. It is important that it is a full-spectrum extract. CitroBiotic is a so-called full-spectrum extract. It maintains the balance and spectrum of the various grapefruit bioflavonoids as found in the fruit, without over-representing a single flavonoid. Flavonoids are the yellowish-orange (flavus = Latin: blond, yellow) plant compounds. They are among the most important active ingredients in phytotherapy. Many flavonoids are also food. For this reason, they are also called "semi-essential". If we eat a diet rich in flavonoids, we are certainly doing our body good, because flavonoids have considerable antioxidant potential. They are widespread in the plant kingdom and are found in practically every fruit and vegetable and in some nuts and grains. Flavonoids are thermostable, meaning they are only minimally lost during cooking. Very flavonoid-rich foods include broccoli, endives, onions, kale, lingonberries, cranberries, tomatoes, citrus fruits (especially grapefruits), but also red wine (in moderation, please!) and green tea. The valuable grapefruit ingredients differ in the fruit, peel, and seeds. The fruit, i.e., the pulp, contains the bitter-tasting glycoside naringin, as well as ascorbic acid and thiamine. The outer yellow peel contains pinene, limonene, linalool, citraldehyde, and has an oil content of 20%. The grapefruit seeds contain numerous bioflavonoids, including naringin, hesperidin, neohesperidin, quercetin, kaempferol, rutin, limonin, poncirin, as well as other ingredients. For GSE production, the seeds and white peel parts are used, i.e., the parts that we usually remove when eating a grapefruit normally.

Among the many (medicinal) plants, there is a very special group:
adaptogens. They are true superfoods, genuine plant power for more
resilience and serenity. The term comes from the Latin
"adapto," which means "to adapt." Adaptogens increase the
body's and mind's ability to better adapt to special and
stressful situations. Family stress, high job stress,
or the loss of a loved one can weaken mental and
physical health in the long run, because negative chronic stress
reduces immune system activity. We sleep poorly,
suffer from cardiovascular problems or cravings, to name just a few consequences.

Adaptogens contain a variety of different ingredients such as
secondary plant compounds, hormone-like compounds, essential oils,
and bitter and tanning agents. The positive properties of adaptogens
are activated by one of these groups or they work synergistically.

The WHO, the World Health Organization, defines probiotics as
"living microorganisms which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host". More simply put, probiotic "good" bacterial strains support the existing microbiota in the intestine by competing with harmful "bad" bacteria for nutrients, inhibiting the penetration of harmful bacteria, or actively combating the "bad" bacteria through the formation of defense substances.

Probiotic bacteria are used, for example, as lactic acid-producing live cultures in pure culture or mixtures in both medicines and food and dietary supplements. Among the most commonly used probiotic cultures are various strains of lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, which belong to the order of lactic acid bacteria. However, Escherichia coli strains or enterococci are also used.

Prebiotics are indigestible food ingredients that serve as an energy and
nutrient source for "good" (non-pathogenic) bacteria, thereby promoting their growth and multiplication.
Prebiotics are often soluble dietary fibers (e.g., inulin or
oligofructose). These can be found in chicory, artichokes,
garlic, and onions, among other foods.

Our body cells are absolutely dependent on iron. Iron is therefore an essential nutrient. In science, a distinction is made between storage iron (ferritin) and functional iron. Storage iron accounts for approx. 30% and is mainly found in intracellular form (within the cells) in the liver, spleen and intestinal mucosa. Functional iron accounts for the lion's share (approx. 70%). It is called functional iron because it is needed by the body in the active working phase, i.e. when it comes to hemoglobin, enzymes and similar. Iron has vital tasks, especially in oxygen transport. It attaches oxygen to the blood pigment hemoglobin in the red blood cells (erythrocytes). Iron is therefore essential for our energy metabolism. It also plays an important role in the "cell powerhouses" (mitochondria) in the citrate cycle and ATP synthesis. Iron is also involved in our hormone balance: iron-containing enzymes make an important contribution to the action of the thyroid hormone thyroxine and the formation of pregnenolone from cholesterol. Iron-containing enzymes also play an important role in detoxification reactions, in the nervous system and in the regeneration of our musculoskeletal system.

Vitamin B1 is important for nerve function. It supports the processing of information between nerves. In addition, energy production in nerve cells occurs mainly through the conversion of carbohydrates – and vitamin B1 plays a significant role in this.

All B vitamins are essential for the function of the nervous system. A deficiency can, for example, be the cause of neuropathy. Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) in particular plays an important role here. In addition to the formation of blood cells and energy metabolism, vitamin B12 is crucially involved in the formation of the myelin sheath. It is also necessary for the formation of neurotransmitters and hormones. It is important to know that vitamin B12 cannot be synthesized by the human body. It is found in relevant quantities mainly in meat, fish, eggs and dairy products.

In order to be absorbed and processed by the body, the B12 ingested with food must be bound to the glycoprotein "intrinsic factor" produced by the parietal cells of the stomach. The absorption of this complex into the blood then takes place via the small intestine cells. Several factors can cause a vitamin B12 deficiency, e.g. malnutrition, a stomach disease, but also intestinal diseases, e.g. Crohn's disease or the so-called malabsorption syndrome.

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is also a very important component for an intact nervous system. Vitamin B6 is also relevant for protein and fat metabolism and for hormonal and immunological processes.

According to the DGE, the German Nutrition Society, the following
secondary plant compounds have proven health-promoting effects:

– Flavonoids (e.g. apples, berries, cranberries, grapefruits,
cherries): Anti-inflammatory, immune-boosting, blood pressure-lowering,
anti-inflammatory, antibiotic

– Carotenoids (e.g. carrots, tomatoes, spinach, melons, pumpkin):
Antioxidant, immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, beneficial for
cardiovascular diseases

– Phytoestrogens (e.g. nuts, sunflower seeds): antioxidant, immune-boosting

– Glucosinolates (e.g. mustard, cress, cabbage): immune-boosting, antioxidant

– Sulfides (e.g. leek, garlic): antibiotic, antioxidant, cholesterol-lowering, blood pressure-lowering

– Monoterpenes (e.g. mint, caraway, lemon): cholesterol-lowering, cancer-inhibiting

– Saponins (e.g. legumes, soy, oats): antibiotic, antifungal

– Phytosterols (e.g. wheat germ, soybeans): cholesterol-lowering

– Phenolic acids (e.g. whole grain rye, coffee): antioxidant

– Polyphenols (e.g. kale, berries, green tea): digestive-promoting

Scientific studies show that many secondary plant compounds have a high health protective potential. For example, certain flavonoids can protect against various types of cancer or positively influence our blood pressure. Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties have also been documented. However, isolated intake of individual plant compounds is probably of little use, because many studies show that these compounds develop their positive properties precisely because of their complex structure, i.e., they only work in conjunction with each other. It is therefore all the more important to ensure that flavonoid-containing foods or food supplements are, for example, full-spectrum extracts, in which the entire flavonoid spectrum (i.e., as it is found, for example, in the fruit or plant) has been extracted.