See what Mumsnet testers thought of new oral supplement sprays from BetterYou

[JustineBMumsnet]

This is the feedback thread for the Mumsnet users who tested products from BetterYou’s new range of oral supplement sprays, for hair, skin & nails, conception, pregnancy and children’s health.

Here’s what BetterYou has to say: “BetterYou is an innovative natural health company specialising in the supplementation of the growing number of key nutrients lost through our dramatically changing diet and lifestyle. Our products stand alone in the marketplace by their unique levels of quality and effectiveness.

BetterYou specialises in the supplementation of those nutrients that have become underrepresented or simply omitted due to our modern diet and lifestyles. Each and every product is developed and formulated to overcome absorption challenges typically presented by traditional delivery methods.

In response to the growing concerns around plastic production and recycling, BetterYou has spent the last 2 years developing a range of recycled and carbon-negative packaging solutions that enables us to drastically reduce our impact on the environment. We are adopting environmental firsts within our industry, and the world...”

More on each product in the range can be found below:

Conception
Conception Oral Spray is an expert blend of seven essential nutrients to support fertility and prepare the body for pregnancy.

Pregnancy
BetterYou Pregnancy Oral Spray is an non-nausea formulation of six essential nutrients to support you and your baby during pregnancy.

Children’s Health
BetterYou Children’s Health Daily Oral Spray provides an expert blend of seven key nutrients that are essential in supporting your child’s immune health, bone growth and psychological development.

Hair, Skin & Nails
BetterYou Hair, Skin & Nails is an expert blend of seven essential nutrients to support the maintenance of healthy skin, hair and nails.

Testers, please give your feedback on this thread by answering the questions below, as well as completing the short survey we’ve emailed you.

1. Which product/s from the range did you test? What were your initial thoughts?
2. What did you think of the flavour of the spray/s you tried?
3. How would you compare spray supplementation to other formats you’ve tried in the past?
4. Do you plan on continuing to use the spray/s you’ve been testing?

All testers who give the required feedback will be entered into a prize draw where one MNer will win a £100 voucher for the store of their choice (from a list).

Thanks and good luck!

MNHQ

Insight Terms and Conditions apply

1. Which product/s from the range did you test? What were your initial thoughts?
I was testing the conception spray. I thought the packaging was lovely and good little information booklet with it which made it feel like a premium product but I worry how that will reflect on the overall price.

2. What did you think of the flavour of the spray/s you tried?
Inital flavour was lovely and fruity but then it leaves a horrible metallic, blood taste in your mouth which I suspect is the iron. It's unclear if you can take a drink after the spray to get rid of this.

3. How would you compare spray supplementation to other formats you’ve tried in the past?
I've used BetterYou vit d spray after a miscarriage as recommended by EPU and I'd be interested to know the accuracy of vitamin levels being consumed given the spray force can vary and after a few seconds of holding it you still need to swallow some left over liquid. I'd rather be certain I'm getting the full benefit of a supplement by tablet form. I did worry about stopping my folic acid supplement to take this spray and if I was getting enough.

4. Do you plan on continuing to use the spray/s you’ve been testing?
Until the bottle is finished, yes. I'm undecided if I would buy myself. It would depend on the retail price.

1. Which product/s from the range did you test? What were your initial thoughts?

Skin, hair and nails and the children’s spray. Love spray supplements, much more convenient. Kids found it easy to use.

1. What did you think of the flavour of the spray/s you tried?

Kids seemed to like the flavour of theirs. I did not like the flavour of skin, hair and nails. Left an awful aftertaste. This would be enough to put me off buying it.

1. How would you compare spray supplementation to other formats you’ve tried in the past?

Have used various spray supplements and much prefer them to capsule form.

1. Do you plan on continuing to use the spray/s you’ve been testing?

I probably won’t continue with the skin, hair and nails as the aftertaste is too much for me, however the kids will continue to use theirs.

1. Which product/s from the range did you test? What were your initial thoughts?

I tried the conception spray and initially liked the look of the product and the packaging. I threw away the outer box but then found there was no information on the bottle about which vitamins were in the spray. I’d quite like this information and the % rda/quantities on the bottle so it’s easy to see what I’m taking.

1. What did you think of the flavour of the spray/s you tried?

Right away I wasn’t overly fond of the flavour and I found the taste stayed in my mouth for a very long time, but actually after the first couple of days I found it grew on me and it’s definitely not as offensive to me now.

1. How would you compare spray supplementation to other formats you’ve tried in the past?

I’m terrible for taking tablet supplements, but I found the spray so much simpler and I’ve not missed a day yet.

1. Do you plan on continuing to use the spray/s you’ve been testing?

Absolutely. I have no idea if it’ll be effective in helping to conceive but I think it is making a difference in my overall health, I feel I have more energy and my hair and nails are looking strong and healthy.

1. Which product/s from the range did you test? What were your initial thoughts?

Conception spray. Loved the packaging. And that it was labelled a green product. The information on the packaging was clear and concise including how to use, the recommended dose and the quantity of each vitamin included in each dose.

1. What did you think of the flavour of the spray/s you tried?

I really enjoyed the flavour. No horrible after taste and lovely pomegranate and raspberry flavour. Makes it easy to use daily when you aren’t put off by the taste.

1. How would you compare spray supplementation to other formats you’ve tried in the past?

Spray formula is easy to use especially as someone who struggles swallowing tablets. There are additional vitamins i take daily such as vitamin B6 and vitamin C not included in the nutritional information so I did use the spray in conjunction with the vitamins I was taking prior to trying this. If there were additional conception aiding vitamins included such as these it would be fantastic.

1. Do you plan on continuing to use the spray/s you’ve been testing?

I would consider it. If there was an attractive price point and I felt it was aiding in my conception journey. Having been trying to conceive for a long time it could prove to be a lengthy and expensive investment so would then need to consider if I felt that my physical well-being was being improved enough to assist with trying to conceive long term.

1. Which product/s from the range did you test? What were your initial thoughts?

PREGNANCY - initially thought the packaging was nice and luxurious and the spray was ideal instead of taking tablets forms of vitamins.

1. What did you think of the flavour of the spray/s you tried?

I mean it's not bad bad. It's not yummy but it is inoffensive.

1. How would you compare spray supplementation to other formats you’ve tried in the past?

Better than tablets as I suffered with sickness in pregnancy. This is the ideal way to ensure baby gets what it needs.

1. Do you plan on continuing to use the spray/s you’ve been testing?

Yes I do, although the tablets i was taking before provided more nutritional vitamins and minerals I find the spray easier to use and baby still gets what he needs

1. Which product/s from the range did you test? What were your initial thoughts?

I tried the Pregnancy vitamin spray. Initially I was really excited to try this as I find it so hard to remember to take my vitamins! I love Madeline Shaw and was excited about the partnership.

The first time I tried the spray it did actually make me gag and I was surprised at the almost oily consistency. I was expecting a more watery texture. I also found 4 sprays to be quite a lot and then to hold it on your cheek for a moment was a bit awkward.

1. What did you think of the flavour of the spray/s you tried?

I really liked the minty taste. It almost works as a breath freshener too and quite nice after a meal.

1. How would you compare spray supplementation to other formats you’ve tried in the past?

I like the idea of a spray supplementation more than a tablet form as to me it seems a quicker and easier way to take vitamins.

1. Do you plan on continuing to use the spray/s you’ve been testing?

I will definitely continue trying the spray, although at the moment I doubt I would purchase it as I’m just not keen on the texture.

1. Which product/s from the range did you test? What were your initial thoughts?

We used the hair, skin and nails and also the children’s spray. I liked the design and the compact size of the bottle compared to a box of tablets.

1. What did you think of the flavour of the spray/s you tried?

Nice pleasant taste, the children said theirs tasted like jam tarts!

1. How would you compare spray supplementation to other formats you’ve tried in the past?

Easier than swallowing tablets. I also prefer this for children as I don’t like how much their normal chewable vitamins look like sweets.

1. Do you plan on continuing to use the spray/s you’ve been testing?

Not sure I would continue to use the hair, skin and nails as I generally prefer a multivitamin, a general women’s multivitamin version would be great though. I would continue to use the children’s version depending on the price.

1. Which product/s from the range did you test? What were your initial thoughts?

Children’s Health Daily Oral Spray and Hair, Skin & Nails.

I'm already a huge fan of BetterYou products as their Iron spray has been life-changing. I used to have to have an iron transfusion every 12 months or so and now don't need to. Iron tablets didn't work at all.

So, it's fair to say I had quite high expectations. These new products both looked and sounded great. It's too early to tell if they have had any effect though and I'm not keen on the taste (see below).

1. What did you think of the flavour of the spray/s you tried?

Disappointing. Peach & Mango sounds delicious and the initial spray is sweet and juicy BUT this is immediately followed by a most unpleasant after taste of perfume. Such a shame.

The raspberry flavour of the children's spray is very artificial and not pleasant either.

I think both flavours have room for improvement - having said that it's too early to tell if they are having any effect on our health or skin, nails or hair and if they do I could probably learn to live with the taste.

1. How would you compare spray supplementation to other formats you’ve tried in the past?

I'm a fan of spray supplementations as I feel they are better absorbed and there are fewer side effects. Need to improve the flavours though.

1. Do you plan on continuing to use the spray/s you’ve been testing?

We will both use up the sprays we are testing and then make a decision based on the results. If there are no noticeable improvements then probably not. I will continue to take the iron spray and recommend it to everyone though!

Thanks for letting us take part in the test.

1. Which product/s from the range did you test? What were your initial thoughts?

We tested the children's health and the hair, skin and nails sprays. Initial impression was that it was a unique way to get supplements into people less likely to take tablets. I was surprised at the limited range of vitamins in it compared with other supplements for children though.

1. What did you think of the flavour of the spray/s you tried? Flavour was ok, but strange aftertaste reported by my son from the children's health spray.
2. How would you compare spray supplementation to other formats you’ve tried in the past?

Easier to convince 9yo to comply, but more hassle for me as I had to actually do it, rather than him just taking a tablet.

1. Do you plan on continuing to use the spray/s you’ve been testing?

Will probably continue with the children's health one, although alongside another supplement as it doesn't contain everything I'd want.

1. Which product/s from the range did you test? What were your initial thoughts?

The packaging was really professional and it did make me excited to try the product - that’s spot on for me. There could have been more information as to what was in the spray.

1. What did you think of the flavour of the spray/s you tried?

I really didn’t like it, I don’t know if it’s because I’m pregnant but 2 sprays were enough, by the 4th I was wincing a bit because I didn’t like the taste.

1. How would you compare spray supplementation to other formats you’ve tried in the past?

I usually use normal vitamin tablets, due to the taste I would rather stick with them instead of the sprays.

1. Do you plan on continuing to use the spray/s you’ve been testing?

Yes, I will use this some days and my normal pregnancy vitamin other days as I wouldn’t want to waste it & I know it’s good for me

1. Which product/s from the range did you test? What were your initial thoughts?

Hair skin and nails and Children’s health. The packaging was good , I did have a bit of trouble trying to read exactly what was in them though.

1. What did you think of the flavour of the spray/s you tried?

I found my one (hair skin and nails) too sweet and quite sickly but 2/3 of my children liked it. The third has sensory issues so I’ve been spraying it into a drink and she hasn’t noticed but I’m not sure it would still work absorption wise.

1. How would you compare spray supplementation to other formats you’ve tried in the past?

For me, I was keen to have something that doesn’t give me digestive issues or make me feel sick and it was definitely better for this. The children liked it well enough but probably prefer the sweety type vitamins - not having to argue with my two year old about why he can only have one of the sweets style vitamins is a definite plus for me and he finds the spray very funny to use.

1. Do you plan on continuing to use the spray/s you’ve been testing?

I’ve already ordered more better you sprays - the vitamin d and k2 one and a children’s vit d. I’ll definitely order more of the children’s health one and will see how it goes with the skin hair and nails one too (I’ll use up the samples at the very least).

1. Which product/s from the range did you test? What were your initial thoughts?

Hair skin and nails for me and the childrens spray for my 1 year old. I did not like the flavour of the spray at all, but my 1 year old liked hers. I think the adult one would benefit from being mint, or something else less fruity. The booklet that came with it seemed to suggest the product will likely be quite expensive.

1. What did you think of the flavour of the spray/s you tried? Too strong on the adult one. My 3 year old didn't like the taste of the children's one.

1. How would you compare spray supplementation to other formats you’ve tried in the past? I think if you have children who are unwilling to take either a chewy vit or liquid one then it would be really beneficial. My 3 year old happily has her gummy vitamin daily and didn't want to give it up for a spray.

1. Do you plan on continuing to use the spray/s you’ve been testing? I will continue to use the children's one until it runs out. I won't continue with the adult one as the taste was not pleasant.

1. Which product/s from the range did you test? What were your initial thoughts?

Conception spray. I liked the novel idea of a spray instead of tablets and its a handy size for popping in your bag.

1. What did you think of the flavour of the spray/s you tried?

Initially I wasnt too keen on the flavour it was a bit too sweet however after a few days of using it the flavour grew on me and I came to like it.

1. How would you compare spray supplementation to other formats you’ve tried in the past?

The idea of a spray is good for those who struggle with the tablets. Its quick and convenient. However for me it would need to have some form of counter on it as my memories not great and I struggled to remember some days if I'd taken it or not, with tablets I can see from the pack if I have/havent but unable to do that with a spray bottle.

1. Do you plan on continuing to use the spray/s you’ve been testing?

No, loved the idea of the spray but as above answer I need to be able to see if I've remembered to take it that day or not.

1. Which product/s from the range did you test? What were your initial thoughts?

Hair, skin and nails and Children's health. Nice packaging, compact design for easy storage. Spray worked effectively throughout use.

1. What did you think of the flavour of the spray/s you tried?.

I can't say I liked the taste of mine- orange,peach and mango, but it wasn't awful. The kids liked theirs- raspberry.

1. How would you compare spray supplementation to other formats you’ve tried in the past?

For me it was much easier to remember, faster and much more convenient. The kids preferred their gummies.

1. Do you plan on continuing to use the spray/s you’ve been testing?

I'm undecided. I think it would depend on the price and availability for me. The kids would definitely prefer their usual types.

1. Which product/s from the range did you test? What were your initial thoughts?

Conception spray, I liked the packaging and the idea of it being a spray rather than a pill or tablet was unique.

1. What did you think of the flavour of the spray/s you tried?

I really didn’t like it! It was way too strong and not a nice flavour. I’ve had to start drinking something in between sprays so I can’t taste it! It’s a shame because I like the idea. The bright yellow colour also surprised me, like you never see it so I don’t know why it needs to be coloured?

1. How would you compare spray supplementation to other formats you’ve tried in the past?

I’ve never had an issue taking tablets or pills no matter how big they are so I think I’ll continue taking supplements in tablet form. I prefer that you can’t taste it, I don’t see why you’d need to taste anything when taking vitamins and supplements. I read the information that said spraying directly onto the inside of your cheek makes your body absorb the supplements better so that’s interesting. But I don’t feel it’s any more effective than pills or tablets.

1. Do you plan on continuing to use the spray/s you’ve been testing?

It’s a difficult one, I think I’ll continue to use this bottle but I won’t buy more. I just can’t stand the taste! I am trying to conceive though so I’ll use it up and then switch to folic acid capsules.

1. I had th conception spray. I thought it wasa a great idea and would be easier to take than a tablet which I always need water to take.

1. The flavour was really nice, the raspberry was lovely, juicy and sweet and the pomegranite added a more savoury/measured taste that balanced out the raspberry very well indeed.

1. Absolutely hands down so much better than pills/tablets as I didn;t need to go and get a glass of water in order to take it plus it tasted nice too so I found I remembered it every day much better.

1. I will continue using it until we conceive again and will be buying it when this runs out.

Overall a brilliant idea and executed very well with the taste and spray delivery giving a measured amount.

1. Which product/s from the range did you test? What were your initial thoughts?

Hair skin nails and children’s health. I really liked the idea of the spray, I remembered to use it more than I would have remembered to take tablets. Tasted pretty good!

1. What did you think of the flavour of the spray/s you tried?

I liked the flavour but my 1 year old seemed to like it, she was the only one of my kids to like/ brave trying it.

1. How would you compare spray supplementation to other formats you’ve tried in the past?

I preferred it actually! Easier to remember and so quick as I didn’t need to get a drink also.

1. Do you plan on continuing to use the spray/s you’ve been testing?

Absolutely!

Hi Mumsnet,

I was sent the pregnancy spray, but unfortunately didn’t end up using it as it arrived the day after I miscarried :(. I would definitely buy it in future though regardless of how it tastes etc as in my last pregnancy I was so sick that I couldn’t keep any of my supplements down.

1. Which product/s from the range did you test? What were your initial thoughts?

We tested the Children’s Heath and the Hair, Skin & Nails products. Initial thoughts - looked like a premium product; nice, clean, professional-looking packaging; easy to use. I would have liked to see the information on the bottle, as the cardboard went straight into the recycling.

1. What did you think of the flavour of the spray/s you tried?

The DC did not like the flavour at all and I haven’t succeeded in getting any of them to try a second dose. I tried it myself and while it wasn’t exactly pleasant, I didn’t think it was that bad either. They’re happy to take a chewable multivitamin, but if they weren’t, I think a spray with an appealing flavour is a great alternative. The fruity flavour was sweet and artificial, but ok. There’s sometimes a bit of a lingering aftertaste, but overall I think not too bad.

1. How would you compare spray supplementation to other formats you’ve tried in the past?

Much easier than swallowing a tablet! There’s definitely a place for a product like this.

1. Do you plan on continuing to use the spray/s you’ve been testing?

I’ll finish using the bottle, but I don’t see myself buying another one.

Which product/s from the range did you test? What were your initial thoughts?

Pregnancy, my initial thoughts were, about time, what a great idea! Especially as a spray would help with nausea and has a nice scent. It’s flexible and convenient! The packaging was very luxurious and I loved the information pamphlet.

1. What did you think of the flavour of the spray/s you tried?

Really nice taste, minty and refreshing.

1. How would you compare spray supplementation to other formats you’ve tried in the past?

So much easier to take than tablets, quicker and you don’t feel nauseous. I do not feel 100% confident regarding whether the vitamins make it into the body but I think it’s because it is such a new idea. That’s the only thing that would maybe become better with time and more products on the market or just some form of backing. I’d definitely use it over tablets if I felt secure about it and it contained more vitamins. It also does tickle a lot when you spray it onto the inside of your cheek.

1. Do you plan on continuing to use the spray/s you’ve been testing?

I will keep using it and I hope some of my thoughts will help to improve the concept and make it successful as it really is very convenient!

1. Which product/s from the range did you test? What were your initial thoughts?

I tested Skin, Hair and Nails. My children tested Children's Health.

Initial thoughts were that packaging and info leaflet looked nice (although there was a really annoying typo in the leaflet!). Very nice design and felt substantial. Like the eco credentials of the pump sprays too.

1. What did you think of the flavour of the spray/s you tried?

Delicious – both the kids and I thought they were yummy.

1. How would you compare spray supplementation to other formats you’ve tried in the past?

Such an easy way to take a supplement. I really dislike trying to chug down a chunky tablet so this is a great solution. Kids also thought that having a “spritz” in their mouths was fun and a real novelty. I also worry about the sugar content in kids’ chewable sweets. Also so much more handy for travel than lugging about everyone’s various vitamin tablets.

1. Do you plan on continuing to use the spray/s you’ve been testing?

Definitely - such an easy and tasty way to get everyone their daily dose (apart from DH who has been complaining about being excluded 😊 Is there a version for men?).

Great products, thanks for the test.

1. Which product/s from the range did you test? What were your initial thoughts?

Conception

1. What did you think of the flavour of the spray/s you tried?

It was a nice taste.

1. How would you compare spray supplementation to other formats you’ve tried in the past?

I haven't tried any other ones in the past.

1. Do you plan on continuing to use the spray/s you’ve been testing?

I definitely will.

1. Which product/s from the range did you test?

What were your initial thoughts?

• Pregnancy spray. Packaging looks nice and the idea of oral vitamins are great, specially if you struggle with morning sickness.

1. What did you think of the flavour of the spray/s you tried?

• nice minty flavour. A bit strong for my taste though

1. How would you compare spray supplementation to other formats you’ve tried in the past?

-I've only taken vitamin tablets before, so this was a completely new experience.

1. Do you plan on continuing to use the spray/s you’ve been testing?

• No. I find my oral vitamins provide much more vitamins and minerals than the spray.

1. Which product/s from the range did you test? What were your initial thoughts?

Conception - happily surprised as did not know these existed

1. What did you think of the flavour of the spray/s you tried?

Loved the raspberry flavour

1. How would you compare spray supplementation to other formats you’ve tried in the past?

it's an interesting concept and liked that you don't have to swallow another pill but not great that 4 sprays are needed and wasn't too sure about how to administer - if it's okay do do all 4 sprays at once.

1. Do you plan on continuing to use the spray/s you’ve been testing?

Definitely. Absolutely love it