Online and in the shops: Folic acid, digestion aid, Aloe Vera and pedicure flex roller

FOLIC FACTS: A new Safefood campaign is urging women who could become pregnant to take a folic acid supplement daily, irrespective of whether or not they are planning a baby.

‘Get the Facts About Folic’ www.safefood.eu/folicacid has been developed to address Ireland’s high incidence of Neural Tube Defects (NTDs)such as Spina Bifida.

“With up to 50% of all pregnancies being unplanned, it’s so important that all women who are sexually active start taking the vitamin daily, even if a baby is the last thing on their mind,” Dr Rhona Mahony, Master, National Maternity Hospital, Holles Street said.

“That’s because a baby’s neural tube develops in the first few weeks of pregnancy when many women may be unaware they are pregnant.” Folic acid supplements are available in pharmacies and health stores; Higher Nature Folic Acid 400µg is €7.10 (90 caps) www.wholefoods.ie

DIGESTIVE DISCOMFORT: During the summer, changes to routine can take a toll on the digestive system. Digestive discomfort is believed to affect up to 30% of the population, mostly women aged between 25 and 55, and a study conducted on behalf of Alflorex found 75% did not seek help for symptoms.

Launched last year, Alflorex was co-developed by Alimentary Health and UCC. It is the only supplement that contains the PrecisionBiotic B. infantis 35624, shown to reduce abdominal discomfort and bloating in IBS patients in clinical trials.

Alflorex is priced €32.95 and no refrigeration is required — perfect for travelling; www.alflorexbiotics.com

SKIN SAVIOUR: Sensitive Irish skin can be affected on even the dullest summer days. Optima Aloe Pura Vera Gel, €4.45, is a cooling and soothing 100% organic gel, for dry or damaged skin.

After a long day outdoors it can be used as a soothing moisturiser, or for sunburn, chapped skin or minor burns. Optima Aloe Dent Lip Balm, €3.89, has added Tea Tree Oil and lysine, with UVA and UVB protection; www.wholefoods.ie

FEET FIRST: Treat yourself to an at-home pedicure with the new Micro Pedi Nano. It has all the power of the Micro Pedi in an ultra light, compact shape, with a new micro-mineral anti-bacterial flex roller to exfoliate and remove hard skin, while being gentle on your feet.

Available in three fun colours — cyan blue, orange, and fuchsia pink — it’s easy to pop into a handbag or suitcase to have your feet holiday-ready in no time, €39.95 from pharmacies or www.micropedi.ie