Safety is always the first question when considering any new supplement-and quite rightly so.
Over the years, I've found that people who ask careful questions about safety tend to be the ones who get the best results from their supplements. They're thoughtful, they listen to their bodies, and they make informed choices.
In this guide, I'll address the most common safety concerns about nano minerals: what they actually contain, who they're suitable for, what side effects to watch for (spoiler: very few), and when extra caution is warranted.
What You're Actually Taking
1. What Exactly Are Nano Minerals?
Let's start with the basics, because understanding what something is helps you assess its safety.
Nano minerals are pure elemental minerals suspended in purified water. That's the complete ingredient list. Genuinely-just mineral and water.
Take nano magnesium, for example. It contains elemental magnesium (the same magnesium found in spinach, almonds, and your own cells) and purified water. Nothing else in the bottle.
The "nano" part refers to particle size. These minerals have been processed to nanometre scale-billionths of a metre-which is already the size your body uses. They don't need to be broken down or converted. They're ready.
No compounds, no binders, no fillers, no flowing agents, no capsule material, no preservatives. Just mineral and water.
2. Are Nano Minerals Natural?
The minerals themselves are natural elements-exactly the same magnesium or iron you'd find in food.
The processing method to achieve nano particle size is modern technology, certainly. But the end result is simply the pure element in its most fundamental form.
Whether you consider this "natural" depends somewhat on your definition. The mineral itself hasn't been chemically altered. It's just been made very, very small.
3. How Are Nano Minerals Different from Colloidal Minerals?
This confusion comes up often, so it's worth clarifying.
Colloidal minerals have larger particles-typically in the micrometre range rather than nanometre. They're suspended in liquid, yes, but they're not at the same tiny scale as true nano minerals.
Nano minerals have particles so small they can pass directly through the soft tissues in your mouth. Colloidal minerals generally can't do this-they're absorbed through the digestive tract if at all.
The particle size makes a considerable difference to bioavailability. True nano minerals are absorbed far more efficiently.
General Safety
4. Are Nano Minerals Safe to Take?
For most people, yes, nano minerals are very well tolerated.
They're pure elemental minerals-substances your body uses every day. You're not introducing anything foreign or synthetic.
The main difference between nano minerals and the minerals in your food is the particle size and purity. Your body already knows what to do with magnesium, iron, zinc. The nano form just makes them easier to absorb.
That said, "safe for most people" doesn't mean safe for everyone in every circumstance. We'll talk about exceptions shortly.
5. Have Nano Minerals Been Tested for Safety?
The individual minerals themselves-magnesium, iron, zinc, and so on-have been extensively studied for decades. We know a great deal about mineral safety, appropriate intake levels, and potential concerns.
Nano mineral technology is newer, so the specific research on nano-sized particles is still developing. However, research is progressing. A 2023 clinical trial published in EClinicalMedicine tested a nano-iron supplement in children with iron deficiency anaemia, comparing it to standard iron treatment. The study found that nano-iron was effective and actually caused less diarrhoea than conventional iron supplements, with no increased adverse events compared to placebo.
Another 2022 review in Clinical Nutrition ESPEN examined nano-formulations for treating iron deficiency anaemia, noting that reducing particle size improves solubility and absorption whilst reducing the gastrointestinal side effects common with conventional iron supplements.
The basic principle-that smaller particles are absorbed more readily-is well established in nutritional science.
If you're the sort of person who wants to see peer-reviewed studies before trying anything, I respect that. The research base is growing, though it's still relatively early days for this technology.
6. Do Nano Minerals Have Side Effects?
Most people experience no side effects at all.
The most common issue, if any, is simply taking too much too quickly-particularly with magnesium, where excessive amounts can occasionally cause loose stools in sensitive individuals. But even this is rare with nano minerals because the doses are relatively small.
Some people report mild adjustment effects when they first start-perhaps slight headaches or fatigue for a day or two. This isn't the minerals causing harm; it's your body responding as mineral levels normalise. It typically passes quickly.
If you experience anything uncomfortable, simply reduce your dose or take a break for a few days.
7. Can I Take Too Much Nano Minerals?
In theory, yes-you can take too much of any nutrient.
In practice, this is difficult to do with nano minerals because the doses are relatively small and your body tends to self-regulate quite well.
Your body uses what it needs and generally doesn't absorb excess beyond a certain point. There are limits to how much mineral can cross through those mucous membranes in your mouth, regardless of how much you take.
That said, please follow the dosage recommendations on your product labels. More isn't always better, and there's no benefit to megadosing.
8. What Happens If I Accidentally Take a Double Dose of Nano Minerals?
Almost certainly nothing concerning.
If you forget whether you've taken your morning dose and take it again, you've simply had twice your usual amount for one day. Your body will cope with this perfectly well.
Don't make a habit of it, obviously. But an occasional accidental double dose isn't cause for worry.
Who Should Be Cautious
9. Can I Take Nano Minerals If I'm Pregnant?
This is a question for your midwife or doctor, not for me.
Mineral needs do increase during pregnancy, and many pregnant women require additional supplementation. But any supplement decisions during pregnancy should be made with professional guidance.
Your healthcare provider can assess your specific mineral levels and advise whether nano minerals are appropriate for you.
10. Can I Take Nano Minerals Whilst Breastfeeding?
Again, please discuss this with your healthcare provider.
Mineral requirements are elevated during breastfeeding, and supplementation is often beneficial. But individual circumstances vary, and your practitioner can guide you based on your specific situation.
11. Can I Give Nano Minerals to Children?
The suitability depends on the child's age and individual needs.
The sublingual technique (holding liquid in the mouth) requires a certain level of maturity and cooperation. Very young children often struggle with this and simply swallow immediately, which defeats the purpose.
If you're considering nano minerals for a child, discuss appropriate dosing with a healthcare practitioner. Children's requirements are quite different from adults', and doses would need to be adjusted accordingly.
12. Can I Take Nano Minerals If I'm on Medication?
This depends entirely on which medications you're taking.
For most common medications, there are no known interactions with nano minerals. But minerals can occasionally affect the absorption of certain drugs, or vice versa.
If you're on prescription medication-particularly thyroid medication, antibiotics, or bisphosphonates-speak to your doctor or pharmacist before adding any mineral supplement. They can advise on timing and any precautions specific to your medications.
13. Can I Take Nano Minerals If I Have a Medical Condition?
This varies depending on the condition.
Certain medical conditions affect mineral metabolism or storage. Haemochromatosis (iron overload), for example, would preclude taking nano iron. Kidney disease affects mineral balance and requires careful monitoring of mineral intake.
If you have any diagnosed medical condition, particularly anything affecting your kidneys, liver, or mineral metabolism, discuss nano minerals with your healthcare provider before starting them.
For most common health concerns, nano minerals are fine. But individual medical history matters.
14. Should I Avoid Nano Iron If I Have High Iron Levels?
Yes, absolutely.
If blood tests have shown elevated iron levels, or if you have haemochromatosis or any condition involving iron overload, do not take supplemental iron in any form.
This applies to nano iron just as it does to conventional iron supplements.
If you're unsure about your iron status, it's worth getting tested before supplementing.
15. Can People with Sensitive Digestion Take Nano Minerals?
Yes, and many do specifically for this reason.
Because nano minerals are absorbed through the mouth rather than requiring digestive breakdown, they're often much better tolerated than conventional supplements.
People who experience digestive upset, bloating, or discomfort from regular mineral supplements often find nano minerals vastly gentler.
That said, everyone's different. Start with a small dose and see how you respond.
Interactions and Timing
16. Do Nano Minerals Interact with Other Supplements?
Generally, no-there are no significant interactions between nano minerals and most other supplements.
The main consideration is timing. Because nano minerals are best taken on an empty stomach for optimal absorption, you might want to take other supplements at a different time of day.
But there's nothing stopping you from taking, say, nano magnesium in the morning and your other supplements with breakfast.
17. Should I Stop Other Mineral Supplements When Starting Nano Minerals?
Not necessarily, but you might want to assess your total mineral intake.
If you're taking a multivitamin that includes magnesium, and you add nano magnesium as well, you'll want to ensure you're not significantly exceeding recommended daily amounts.
Most people find they can reduce or stop their conventional mineral supplements once they start nano minerals, because the absorption is so much more efficient. But this is an individual decision.
18. Can I Take Nano Minerals with Vitamins?
Yes, there's no issue with taking nano minerals alongside vitamin supplements.
Just mind the timing-take nano minerals on an empty stomach, then have your vitamins with food if they're the sort that require food for absorption.
19. Should I Take Nano Minerals with Food or Without?
Always on an empty stomach-ideally 20-30 minutes before eating.
This isn't about avoiding interactions with food, exactly. It's about maximising the sublingual absorption that makes nano minerals effective.
When your mouth is clean and your stomach is empty, absorption through those soft tissues in your mouth is most efficient.
Quality and Purity Concerns
20. How Do I Know My Nano Minerals Are Pure?
Reputable nano mineral companies will provide information about their manufacturing processes and quality testing.
Look for products that specify they contain only mineral and purified water-no other ingredients on the label.
If you're unsure about a particular brand, contact the company and ask about their quality control measures. Good companies are transparent about this.
21. Do Nano Minerals Contain Heavy Metals or Contaminants?
Quality nano minerals should not contain contaminants.
The manufacturing process for reputable products includes purification steps to remove any impurities. The water used should be highly purified, and the mineral source should be clean.
This is one reason to choose established, reputable brands rather than the cheapest option available. Quality control matters.
22. Should Nano Minerals Be Refrigerated?
Not unless the label specifically instructs you to do so.
Most nano minerals are stable at room temperature. Keep them in a cupboard away from direct sunlight and heat, but refrigeration isn't necessary.
Do keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use, to prevent contamination.
23. How Long Do Nano Minerals Last Once Opened?
Check your product label for specific guidance, but most nano minerals remain stable for many months after opening.
As long as you keep the bottle closed between uses and store it properly, degradation is minimal.
If the product looks or smells different from when you first opened it, that's a sign it may have degraded. But this is unusual with proper storage.
Recognising Your Body's Response
24. How Will I Know If Nano Minerals Are Working?
This depends somewhat on why you're taking them and what your mineral status was to begin with.
Some people notice effects quite quickly-perhaps better sleep within a few days with magnesium, or gradually improving energy over a few weeks with iron.
Others notice nothing dramatic, but realise after several months that they simply feel more stable, more resilient, better in themselves.
The absence of problems can sometimes be the sign that something's working. If you used to get frequent cramps and they've stopped, that's your magnesium working. If you're no longer exhausted by mid-afternoon, that might be your iron.
Pay attention, but don't expect miracles overnight.
25. What If I Don't Feel Any Different Taking Nano Minerals?
This isn't necessarily a problem.
If you weren't deficient to begin with, you might not notice much change. You're simply maintaining adequate levels rather than correcting a deficiency.
Some people supplement minerals preventatively or because they know their diet is lacking in certain areas. The benefit might be what doesn't happen (you don't become deficient) rather than a noticeable improvement.
If you're concerned, you could have your mineral levels tested before and after a few months of supplementation. This gives you objective data rather than relying on subjective feelings.
26. Should I Get My Mineral Levels Tested Before Taking Nano Minerals?
It's not essential, but it can be genuinely helpful.
Testing before you start supplementing gives you a baseline. Testing after a few months shows whether the supplementation is actually affecting your levels.
This is particularly useful with iron, where both deficiency and excess can cause problems. Knowing your levels helps you supplement appropriately.
Your GP can order mineral testing, or you can use private testing services if you prefer.
27. When Should I Stop Taking Nano Minerals?
This depends on why you started taking them in the first place.
If you were addressing a known deficiency, you might continue until testing shows your levels have normalised, then reassess.
Some people take nano minerals long-term as part of their ongoing health maintenance. Others use them seasonally or during particular life phases.
If you experience any adverse effects, obviously stop and consult a healthcare professional.
There's no single right answer. Your needs will guide you.
When to Seek Advice
28. What Symptoms Should Prompt Me to Stop Taking Nano Minerals?
Any unusual or concerning symptoms warrant stopping and seeking advice.
This might include persistent digestive upset, headaches that don't resolve, unusual fatigue, or anything else that feels wrong to you.
In reality, such reactions to nano minerals are very rare. But trust your instincts. If something feels off, stop taking them and speak to your healthcare provider.
29. Should I Tell My Doctor I'm Taking Nano Minerals?
Yes, it's good practice to keep your doctor informed about any supplements you take.
This is particularly important if you're on medication, have medical conditions, or are undergoing treatment for anything.
Your doctor might not be familiar with nano minerals specifically, but they should know you're supplementing with minerals and roughly how much.
30. Who Should Absolutely Not Take Nano Minerals?
There are few absolute contraindications, but these are important:
Haemochromatosis or iron overload conditions: Do not take nano iron.
Severe kidney disease: Mineral handling is impaired; supplementation requires medical supervision.
Known allergy to the specific mineral: Extremely rare, but if you have a documented allergy, obviously avoid.
Children under medical care for specific conditions: Always get professional guidance first.
For most people, in most circumstances, nano minerals are safe and well-tolerated. But individual medical history matters, and when in doubt, ask a professional.
Nano minerals are generally very safe for healthy adults when used as directed. They contain nothing but pure mineral and water, they're well absorbed, and side effects are rare.
That said, pregnancy, breastfeeding, childhood, medication use, and existing medical conditions all warrant careful consideration and often professional guidance.
Trust your instincts, start with small doses, pay attention to your body's responses, and don't hesitate to seek advice when you're unsure.
Questions about your specific situation? Do get in touch: info@nanominerals.co.uk.
Research Sources
Mohammed NI, Wason J, Mendy T, Nass SA, Ofordile O, Camara F, Baldeh B, Sanyang C, Jallow AT, Hossain I, Faria N, Powell JJ, Prentice AM, Pereira DIA. A novel nano-iron supplement versus standard treatment for iron deficiency anaemia in children 6-35 months (IHAT-GUT trial): a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled non-inferiority phase II trial in The Gambia. EClinicalMedicine. 2023 Feb 9;56:101853. doi: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2023.101853. PMID: 36880049; PMCID: PMC9985047.
Singh K, Sethi Chopra D, Singh D, Singh N. Nano-formulations in treatment of iron deficiency anaemia: An overview. Clin Nutr ESPEN. 2022 Dec;52:12-19. doi: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2022.08.032. Epub 2022 Sep 6. PMID: 36513444.
