How can we help?
Our Frequently Asked Questions are the quickest way to get help, but if you can't find what you're looking for then click on the Chat Icon at the bottom right of your screen and one of our Customer Delight Associates will help answer your questions.
FAQs
What does Vitl do?
Vitl provides a simple and convenient way to understand and improve your health with at-home nutrition tests and tailor-made supplements to help you feel your best.
Where is Vitl available?
Vitl is based in the UK but we deliver our personalised vitamin packs to most of Europe, Australia and the USA. The DNA Nutrition Test is currently restricted to customers in the UK, the USA, and select countries in mainland Europe (the Netherlands, Germany, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Belgium, Denmark, and Ireland). The Vitamin Blood Test is only available for UK customers. That said, you can access the Vitl platform from anywhere in the world via your smartphone, laptop or desktop.
Who can use Vitl products?
Our products are designed for anyone over the age of 18. Whether you are a nutrition buff, just starting a health kick, trying to conceive, already pregnant, or training for an event, we have the supplements and nutrition tests for you!
How do I contact Vitl?
You can get in touch with us with any questions or comments via email (hello@vitl.com). Our customer services team will get back to you as soon as they can and their hours are 9am - 5.30pm, Monday - Friday (excluding bank holidays). We'd love to hear from you!
Is my data safe?
Keeping our customers' data safe is of utmost importance to us here at Vitl. We guarantee that we will not sell or pass your data to any third party outside of Sequence Nutrition Limited in the normal course of business, unless that third party requires the data to provide you with your order for delivery, or if required to do so by law. We store your data on our secure servers and customers can request a data update, a copy of their information, and that their account or data is deleted permanently, in line with the 2018 General Data Protection Regulation. Vitl is fully registered with the ICO and HIPAA-compliant.
How can I cancel my subscription?
You can pause or cancel your subscription at any time by logging into the My Account section, using the email you signed up with. Once you’ve logged in, hover over your name and click 'Orders’. From there, you can either cancel or select how many weeks you would like to pause your subscription for. After you have paused or cancelled your subscription, you will receive a confirmation email.
How can I update my payment card?
You can update your billing information at any time by logging into the My Account section, using the email you signed up with. Once you’ve logged in, hover over your name and click 'Payment methods’ to add, edit or delete your payment cards.
How long does my delivery take?
Once dispatched from the warehouse, deliveries to UK-based customers will usually arrive within 3-5 working days whereas European, US & Australian deliveries can take a bit longer (7-10 working days). Our warehouse aims to dispatch within 1 working day of order but it can take a bit longer if demand is exceptionally high.
How do I track my order?
You will receive a tracking link in the confirmation of dispatch email. Please note that we only track deliveries of the Monthly Personalised Packs and The Essential One. Test kits and 2-week trials are not tracked.
How can I update my delivery address?
You can update your delivery address at any time by logging into the My Account section, using the email you signed up with. Once you’ve logged in, hover over your name and click 'Orders’. Under 'Manage' you can change your delivery address for all future deliveries. If payment has already been processed and you need to change the address, write to hello@vitl.com as soon as possible and one of the team will try and change this for you before it is despatched.
What is your Returns Policy?
Unfortunately, we are unable to offer refunds on personalised products (Including Monthly Personalised packs and The Essential One) but all other products can be returned within 14 days provided they are unopened and in perfect condition. Once we receive the product, we will happily refund your purchase minus a restocking fee. Please do not forget to include a note with your name, email address and postal address so that we are able to refund your account. If you wish to return a product, please contact us and send your box, including a note with your details, to:
Vitl c/o, Codestorm Dudley
2 Navigation Drive
Brierley Hill
DY5 1UT
Do you accept Paypal?
Unfortunately, we don't accept PayPal yet but it is something we're working on. However, our current payment provider, Stripe, is very secure and works similarly to PayPal. We do not keep any of your payment details stored on our system.
Are the vitamins really personalised?
Our personalised vitamins are tailored to your individual needs based on your answers from our online consultation. The vitamins and minerals provided are those which our nutrition team believes will fit best with your health goals and lifestyle, without including any unnecessary ingredients.
What are Vitl vitamins made of?
With our wide range of vitamin supplements, we have power to enhance our nutritional offering by combining the high-dose of traditional bioavailable vitamins and minerals from natural base ingredients (concentrated in the lab) with food-state natural supplements that contain a matrix of complex nutrients including antioxidants, adaptogenic herbs and plant extracts. Our Pregnancy supplements are food state and all Vitl products are also 100% free from additives and potentially harmful fillers and bulking agents which can block absorption of key nutrients.
Are your vitamins GMO? Do they contain any fillers or bulking agents?
All of our products are non-GMO and 100% free from harmful fillers and bulking agents, additives, artificial colours and gluten. Read more about what fillers are in our recent blog post.
Are your vitamins vegan and vegetarian?
Yes, many of our products are vegan-friendly. However, a few items, such as our Omega 3 capsules or Collagen & Vitamin C Effervescents, are not suitable for vegans. For our non-personalised product range, dietary information & full ingredient lists are available on our product pages. For our personalised vitamins, you'll be asked about dietary requirements during the health quiz & we'll ensure your vitamins meet your needs.
Are Vitl vitamins soy, nut, dairy free as well as gluten free as well?
Vitl vitamins are free from gluten, dairy, and nuts. We will take dietary requirements into consideration when recommending our personalised supplements and lifestyle advice.
I have an allergy, can I modify my subscription?
If you are allergic to any of the ingrdients in your recommended pack then send an email to hello@vitl.com and we'll find a suitable alternative for you.
Can I take Vitl vitamins with medication?
This depends on the medication you are taking. Most vitamins and minerals will not cause any issues but please consult your GP before taking Vitl's supplements if you are on medication.
Am I able to take expired supplements?
We wouldn't recommend taking supplements that are past their best before date as, after this date, the active ingredients might be less effective. You can find the best before end date of the supplements on the back of the blister strips or tins.
Why can’t I just get nutrients from food?
Whilst we agree that a balanced diet is the most important thing, we understand that can be quite hard to achieve all of the time. Soil degradation, stress, and other factors beyond our control mean the majority of us are deficient in many key nutrients. We wrote a blog post going into more detail which you might find interesting. Our aim is to keep a healthy diet topped up, not to replace it!
Is it necessary to supplement with vitamin D if I have a healthy diet?
Even with a healthy diet, it's unlikely that you will be getting enough of the vitamin D3 as the only source of this is direct sunlight. Sadly, we don't get much sun in the UK (especially in the winter months) and we are spending increasing amounts of time indoors. During the winter, an estimated 60-90% of us experience low vitamin D levels, which is why Public Health England recommends that everyone over the age of 1 supplements with vitamin D. You can also find out about your current vitamin D levels by taking our Vitamin & Cholesterol Blood Test.
When/how should I take my Vitl vitamins?
It's completely up to you! That said, we would recommend taking it earlier in the day and with a meal to help the absorption of the vitamins and minerals. Avoid taking with caffeine as this can prevent absorption and increase excretion.
How long do I need to take my supplements before I will feel effects/see results?
Vitamin and mineral supplements are not medications, and therefore not designed to cure any illnesses. However, if you are currently deficient in a particular nutrient, then it's likely you'll notice a difference very early on. Our customers who have reported clearer skin, better energy levels, and/or less hay fever within a matter of weeks - check out our blog post on what you can expect when you start taking supplements here.
Where should I store my vitamins?
Wherever suits you best! On your desk, in the kitchen, on your bedside table, in the bathroom… but just as long as they are kept out of direct sunlight.
I want to try the vitamins before committing to a subscription, can I do this?
Our vitamin packs are only available on subscription service but you are free to pause or cancel at any time.
Can I take all of my vitamin products together?
This is unique for each individual's combination. Send a message to hello@vitl.com and we can look into this for you.
What is the difference between the Personalised Pack and the Essential One?
The Essential One is a 'stripped-back' multivitamin containing six-nine different vitamins and minerals that is tailored depending on your consultation. This is designed as a 'booster' to your lifestyle. The Personalised Pack, on the other hand, is more comprehensive as it contains four pills and has a wider range of vitamins and minerals. It targets specific health goals and alleviates potential symptoms.
Are the vitamins really personalised?
Our personalised vitamins are tailored to your individual needs based on your answers from our online consultation. The vitamins and minerals provided are those which our nutrition team believes will fit best with your health goals and lifestyle, without including any unnecessary ingredients.
Does the DNA Nutrition Test tell me about intolerances and allergies?
The DNA Nutrition Test will test your likelihood of experiencing gluten intolerance, fructosuria (an intolerance to fructose), and will also show if you are likely to be sensitive to alcohol and caffeine. Currently, we believe there is not enough scientific evidence available to provide a report on your genetic likelihood of being lactose intolerant, which is why we do not cover this genetic trait.
How do I take my DNA sample?
Taking your DNA sample is easy and pain free. You simply swipe the inside of your cheek with a cotton swab and the whole process takes less than a minute. As your DNA is fixed throughout life, you can take your sample at any time of day and in any condition of health without affecting the results (including during pregnancy). That said, it's important to follow the steps below to ensure that you don't contaminate the sample and that you collect enough cells for analysis:
- Avoid eating, drinking (even water), chewing gum or smoking for at least an hour before taking your sample.
- Ensure you take your sample in a clean space and avoid touching the swab with your hands.
- Rub the inside of both cheeks firmly with the swab and apply pressure to the outside of your cheek with your middle and index fingers to make sure you get enough DNA.
- Make sure you click the swab shut when putting it back in the plastic tube.
Please watch this short video clip on how to take the swab.
How long do I have to wait for my results?
You can expect to receive your DNA results within 6 weeks of sending your sample back for analysis. We will send you an email when the lab receives your sample and another when your results are ready. It can take up to 2 weeks for the sample to arrive at the lab and once received, the lab usually processes the results within 4 weeks.
How do I view my results?
You will be notified by email when your DNA results are ready. Just click on the link in the email or log into your Vitl Account: under 'Results', click 'DNA test' to read your full report. Each tested trait has a detailed report about your genetic makeup and lifestyle tips based on your results to show you how best to work with your genes.
What happens to my sample and my data?
Your DNA sample is destroyed after analysis by the laboratory. The lab also receives your data in an anonymised manner in the form of a barcode which we use to match up to your user ID. We store your DNA data securely on our database so that we can update your reports with any new insights as and when new research becomes available. However, if at any point you wish for us to completely delete your data, just send a message to hello@vitl.com and we can do this for you. We can also supply you with a copy of your raw data.
How does Vitl genotype my DNA?
When your saliva sample is received at the lab, it goes through various stages: 1) Extraction - this is where your DNA is extracted from the cell nucleus. 2) Amplification - this is where your DNA strands are copied multiple times to ensure there is enough DNA for an accurate reading of your genotype. 3) Genotyping - this is where the strand of your DNA is "cut"" into smaller fragments which are attached to the surface of a DNA chip (also known as a 'microarray'). Try to imagine a very small glass slide with millions of microscopic beads on its surface; each of these beads is attached to a probe which is the bit of DNA that matches one of the genetic variants that we test. The fragments of DNA stick to the DNA-matching probes, based on the variant it has. Each probe has a fluorescent label which allows us to identify which genotype is attached. These genotypes are recorded and stored in a file which the lab sends to us to interpret.
Why doesn’t my predicted trait match my actual trait?
In some rare cases, your predicted trait will not match your actual trait. This can occur for a number of reasons:
- you may have unique ancestry. Sometimes, scientific studies do not have enough individuals from certain populations meaning that they are unable to evaluate how well that trait prediction works in those populations. This was a more common issue in the early stages of genetic testing but, as more individuals from different populations participate in this kind of scientific research, the more accurate these studies are becoming.
- your particular version of the trait may be determined by other genetic variants that are not included in our analysis.
- your trait is too strongly influenced by environmental factors that 'overpower' your genetic predisposition to a trait. A typical example would be a person who is not predisposed to being obese but who lives an extremely unhealthy life, resulting in obesity.
Although our prediction about your trait may not always match your actual physical trait, it's important to understand that the genotype underlying that prediction is highly accurate, based on peer-reviewed scientific journals. As genetics is an ever-evolving field, we are constantly reviewing and improving our insights into your DNA traits based on the latest research.
Will medication or illness affect my DNA results?
No, your DNA test will not be affected by illness or by any medication you might be taking.
Can I get my DNA raw data?
Yes. Please send an email to hello@vitl.com and we'll be able to help. Word of warning though - the file is just a long list of numbers and letters which won't mean much to the untrained eye!
Will the DNA Nutrition Test show if I have the MTHFR gene mutation?
Yes, the DNA Nutrition Test covers the MTHFR gene (within the folic acid report) so it's definitely something you can find out.
What does the blood kit test for?
Our Vitamin & Cholesterol Blood Test currently analyses the core essential nutrients that have the greatest impact on immediate wellbeing and long-term health. The test covers vitamin D, ferritin (iron), zinc, vitamin B12, folate (folic acid/ vitamin B9), and then we provide an in-depth cholesterol reading covering triglycerides, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and cholesterol ratio. You will also receive personalised dietary and lifestyle advice from a nutritionist to help you keep your levels in the healthy range.
Is the blood test a subscription?
Our Vitamin & Cholesterol Blood Test is sold as a quarterly subscription, which means you receive a test kit every 3 months. This is because our vitamin levels fluctuate depending on a range of factors including lifestyle, diet, season, and stress levels so it's a good idea to keep on top of these to prevent any deficiencies. You can pause or cancel your subscription at any time.
What is included in the lipid panel?
The Vitamin & Cholesterol Test lipid panel includes triglycerides, total cholesterol, HDL Cholesterol (the 'good' cholesterol), LDL Cholesterol (the 'bad' cholesterol) and cholesterol ratio.
Does the blood test also test for thyroid activity and liver health?
Unfortunately, our Vitamin & Cholesterol Blood Test doesn't test for thyroid activity or liver health just yet. For more information on which biomarkers are currently analysed, please head to our blood test page. If you've got any suggestions on what you'd like our test to cover then don't hesitate to drop us a line at hello@vitl.com.
Does the blood test tell me about food intolerances and allergies?
Unfortunately, our Vitamin Blood Test doesn't test for food intolerances or food allergies.
How and when do I take my blood sample?
Our Vitamin & Cholesterol Blood Test is designed to be done in the comfort of your own home. You will need to provide a small blood sample (6-8 drops) using a quick finger-prick test (don't worry, you don't even see the pin), which you then send off to the lab for analysis. It's important not to eat anything for 9-12 hours before the test to ensure your cholesterol results are not affected - a great time to do the test is just before breakfast, ideally after you've just had a hot shower. Please take a look at this video to see how to take your sample.
How long does it take to get the results?
The lab typically analyses the sample within 48 hours of its being received at the lab. The results will then be uploaded immediately to your account to view via the Vitl app (available on iOS devices) or via the website. These results will be accompanied by a report detailing the findings and actionable insights. You will be notified by email as soon as the results are available to view.
If I am unable to draw enough blood, what should I do?
First off, do not worry! This is quite normal. If you're struggling to get enough blood, there are two options - we can either send you a new blood test with some extra lancets so that you can try again. Alternatively, we can issue you with a refund for the test. Just write to hello@vitl.com to let us know what you'd like to do. A great time to do the test is straight after a hot shower (but before breakfast!) as this helps the blood flow. If you can do some exercise beforehand too, that can really help.
How does your test differ from an NHS blood test?
The main difference between our Vitamin & Cholesterol Blood Test and one you can do on the NHS is convenience - our blood test can be done in the comfort of your home and returned to us via your nearest post box, so you decide where and when you do it! Vitl's Vitamin & Cholesterol Blood Test doesn't only tell you which vitamins and minerals you may be deficient in, but will also give you a detailed report outlining tips and advice to improve your lifestyle. Based on your blood test results, we can create a bespoke pack of personalised vitamins tailored to your needs. It's also worth noting that we work with a UKAS-accredited lab, whereas many NHS laboratories don't yet have this accreditation as they use older machines that are sometimes less accurate.
If you don't see your question then please get in touch