Multimineral and multivitamins are two of the most common and most popular supplements in the world. It’s obvious as to why that is since they are supplements that help your body be healthier. Over the decades, their popularity has increased exponentially, and it seems that even today, they are still as relevant as sliced bread.
More or less 50% of Americans take them, especially the older population. People take it for various reasons, too, like compensating for their poor diet or even to help them lose weight. Certain diseases are brought about by the lack of vitamins in our body, for example, scurvy or beriberi.
However, these conditions are certainly rare in the US since the country has accessible food supplies. So is there any reason to take multivitamins? Plenty. But if you’re still not convinced, here are some things you should know about multivitamins.
What are Multivitamins?
Multivitamins are supplements with many different types of vitamins and minerals, and sometimes, some brands incorporate other helpful ingredients. Since this supplement has no standard, every brand has its formulas and ingredients, resulting in varying nutrient compositions.
Multivitamins also come in different forms, such as pills, powders, capsules, tablets, and chewable gummies. Most brands typically recommend taking two per day for the full effect. That said, make sure to check the label before consuming. Also, be sure to check on your doctor to see if you’re allowed to take multivitamins. Some doctors even recommend some multivitamins themselves.
Multivitamins can be found in drugstores, discount stores, supermarkets, or online if you don’t want to get out of the house.
Nutrient Deficiency
One of the reasons why people take multivitamins is their poor diet. A poor diet lacks an essential mineral or something else that is essential for humans to be healthy. Not to mention that many people don’t only have a poor diet, but also poor eating habits. With that combination, it’s no surprise that many people lack vitamins and minerals in one way or another.
A balanced diet consists of good protein sources, healthy fats, fruits, veggies, and whole grains. This kind of diet has enough vitamins and minerals that a human needs. However, not everyone has the time or energy to prepare one. Not only that, but certain age groups and human conditions are in danger of lacking the essential vitamins.
For example, suppose you’re in the older age group. In that case, the risk of having a poor diet resulting in a lack of vitamins and minerals is higher for various reasons. One example is when an individual has a more limited diet because of health conditions or a poor appetite due to medications.
Pregnant women are also at risk of nutrient deficiency. Getting enough folate is essential for a pregnant woman. This vitamin is important because it reduces the risk of your baby having a spina bifida or anencephaly. Fortunately, you can get this nutrient from various multivitamins for women.
Multivitamins against Whole Foods
When it comes to essential vitamins and minerals, nothing beats what nature provides. This is because most of the vitamins and minerals that you get from whole foods are vastly superior to those you get from supplements. There are even studies that recommend you to consider some things first.
Take broccoli as an example. Broccoli and other cruciferous products have components that are considered anti-cancer and reduce inflammation. Although there are some studies that show that multivitamin supplements have negative effects on the human body, they are in a controlled environment, and the cases these studies have shown are only rare instances.
But of course, not all multivitamins come with health risks and even better in providing some vitamins in our bodies. For example, folic acid is essential for pregnant women since it reduces the risk of certain conditions. That said, folic acid is best when taken in a supplement.
So Which Multivitamins Should You Choose?
Multivitamins come in various forms and sizes like tablets, capsules, powders, and even gummy bears. Their packaging advertises their specific combination of vitamins and minerals. However, supplements are a multi-billion industry, and there are thousands of designer brands out there which makes it hard to choose.
With that in mind, look for one that contains the Recommended Allowance amounts and the USP approval. This seal ensures that the combination of vitamins and minerals is contained in the supplement. Also, USP conducts tests that ensure that the multivitamins you’re about to make don’t have harmful substances like heavy metals and pesticides.
Final Words
If you’re already eating a balanced diet with lots of water, fruits, and veggies, then you may not need to take multivitamins. If you’re considering taking them, make sure to talk to your doctors first. If they allow it, you can even ask them for recommendations.
