Southern Cross University researchers have received their first Gates Foundation grant. The 18-month project aims to cut the cost of omega-3 supplements for pregnant women and infants in low-income countries by at least 50 per cent. The team plans to grow microscopic organisms called thraustochytrids on agricultural and food-processing by-products. Lead researcher Professor Dirk Erler said cost is the main barrier to omega-3 use among pregnant women. Massey University's Professor Munish Puri is also taking part in the project.
Melrose FutureLab offers a Daily Longevity Stack with 15 active ingredients in one 8g scoop, priced at $149 or $118.99 monthly with a $45 welcome pack. The product supports cellular energy, muscle strength, cognitive function, and nervous system health. The company also sells standalone supplements like NMN Powder, Resveratrol + Quercetin, and Vitamin C Liposomal, ranging from $34.95 to $74.95. The Daily Longevity Stack is Australian-made, TGA-listed, and third-party tested, with a 60-day money-back guarantee.
Magnesium supplements may not reach the brain, despite label claims. The body absorbs only part of a dose, and the higher the dose, the less is taken in. Cheap magnesium oxide pills mostly act as laxatives because they break down poorly. Some brain-focused products rely on rodent studies, while small human trials have serious limitations and were often funded by manufacturers. The writer concludes that a brain-focused magnesium supplement is likely just an expensive laxative.
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Former Olympic gold medallist Duncan Armstrong and Ironman legend Guy Leech are criticising Australia's supplements market, which Complementary Medicines Australia estimates at $6.3bn in 2025. Leech says many products are sold separately, and some labels hide exact ingredient doses under commercial confidentiality rules that are legal under the current system. Armstrong warns that supplements can interact with prescription medicines and urges people to check with their doctor first. Complementary Medicines Australia reports that 84 per cent of Australians are confident in local supplement safety and quality.
A lifestyle guide recommends several vitamin brands sold in Australia, including Blackmores, JSHealth, Swisse, Nature's Own, Thorne, NaturoBest and NOW Foods. The guide describes each brand's product focus and lists retailers where they can be bought. It also outlines the roles of vitamins C, D, A and E, the B vitamin group and omega-3 fatty acids. The publisher notes that it may receive revenue from links in the content.
Melatonin supplements are a synthetic version of a hormone that regulates sleep. They can help with jet lag and shift work, but not chronic insomnia. In Australia, pharmacists can supply controlled-release tablets for short-term sleep problems in people aged 55 and over, and immediate-release products for jet lag. Side effects are generally minor and short-lived, but driving after taking melatonin may affect attention and reaction time.
