Change Your Mind with New Scientist

Supplements - The Surprising Pill that Actually Helps your Brain

Change Your Mind with New Scientist

Show Notes

If the wellness industry has you wondering whether your daily supplements are helping your brain, or just draining your bank account, this episode is for you. New Scientist journalists Cat de Lange and Helen Thomson reveal the science behind multivitamins, omega-3s, vitamin D, creatine and more, separating the snake oil from the evidence that actually stands up.

Along the way, they unpack why even the most scientifically minded people can fall for wellness trends, how social media has transformed the supplement boom, and what researchers are really discovering about brain health as we age.

They’re joined by Harvard professor and physician JoAnn Manson, who has led some of the largest and most rigorous studies ever conducted on supplements and cognition. From surprising findings on multivitamins to the truth about chocolate, fish oils and “brain boosting” pills, this episode explores what’s worth paying attention to, and what might be better left on the shelf.

Produced by Emily Bird

We want to hear your thoughts, leave a comment or send in your ideas for future episodes to ⁠[email protected]⁠

Learn more about supplements:

https://www.newscientist.com/article-topic/supplements/

Learn more our sponsor Alzheimer’s Association:

⁠newscientist.com/alzheimers-society⁠

More from Change Your Mind with New Scientist

Oct 22, 2026

Series 3 of Change Your Mind with New Scientist is on it's way! But we couldn't leave you with nothing whilst we put together our next batch of myth-busting interviews with top brain experts. Cat de Lange and Helen Thomson share the very best tips and tricks they've picked up in their decades as Health Journalists.

Oct 15, 2026

Bonus Brain Tips!

Oct 8, 2026

Can a growth mindset help you cope with exam pressure? Does writing by hand help you remember more? And what does the science really say about lion’s mane and pets?

Oct 1, 2026

Exercise is often framed as a way to get fit, but what if its biggest benefits are happening in your brain? In this episode of Change Your Mind, Health Journalists Cat de Lange and Helen Thomson explore why movement matters for our mood and long-term brain health, and why making exercise part of everyday life can feel like such a challenge.

Sep 24, 2026

Is now really the worst time in history to be a teenager? This week, health Journalists Cat de Lange and Helen Thomson take on a topic that worries many parents: teenage mental health.

See all episodes →