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A pill popping nation.

Series

The vitamin epidemic

We’ve become a nation of pill poppers. What are the benefits, and what is the cost of vitamins to our health and hip pocket?

6 stories
A cure-all in a bottle? The rise of vitamins.

The vitamin epidemic: How did we get so hooked on pills?

The history of vitamins is fascinating. In this first instalment of our series, we take you on its journey from 19th century France to contemporary Australia.

  • Sarah Berry
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What’s inside your pill may not be as ‘natural’ as you think.

Do you know what’s in your vitamin pill?

The claims vary from promises of longevity and improved vitality to treating everything from menopausal symptoms and sleep issues. But do you know what you’re swallowing?

  • Sarah Berry
There is still a lot experts don’t know about vitamins.

‘There’s a surprisingly large amount not yet known’: The vitamin questions experts are asking

Despite the claims, there is still a lot that experts don’t know about the vitamins you’re taking.

  • Sarah Berry
Expert advice: what experts think of the most popular vitamins and supplements taken in Australia.

These are the most popular vitamins in Australia. Here’s what the experts say

Along with the perception they are “natural”, the lighter regulation of vitamins and supplements creates a false sense of security among consumers. How do our most commonly purchased vitamins stack up?

  • Sarah Berry
Can we supplement our way to an improved version of ourselves?

Can you achieve your ‘best self’ with supplements?

The promise that we can optimise ourselves through supplementation is tantalising. Is it too good to be true?

  • Sarah Berry
Test your vitamin knowledge with our quiz.

How much do you know about vitamins?

Test your vitamin knowledge with our quiz.

  • Sarah Berry

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The Sydney Central Business District, Sydney Harbour and Eastern Suburbs and surrounds are seen on 18 February 2025, in Sydney, Australia from a commercial airliner. Picture - Sam Mooy / The Sydney Morning Herald

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