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Multivitamins are one of the most commonly taken supplements in the world, with nearly one-third of adults in the United States taking them regularly. With so many options available on the market today, it can be hard to know whether taking a multivitamin is right for you. In this article, we will take a closer look at what the experts have to say about taking a daily multivitamin.
First of all, it is important to understand what a multivitamin is and what it can do for your body. Multivitamins are dietary supplements that contain a combination of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. They are designed to supplement your diet and provide you with the nutrients you may not be receiving from the foods you eat.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), most people can get all the vitamins and minerals they need from a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods. However, some people may not get enough of certain essential vitamins and minerals, either because they don’t eat enough of the right foods or because their bodies have trouble absorbing nutrients. This is where a multivitamin can come in handy.
So, should you take a multivitamin? The answer is, it depends. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that people get their nutrients from whole foods whenever possible. However, they do acknowledge that taking a multivitamin can be beneficial for some people. For example, pregnant women, vegans or vegetarians, and older adults may need to take a multivitamin to ensure they are getting enough of certain essential nutrients.
The AHA also suggests that people who are at risk of vitamin or mineral deficiencies, such as those who follow a restrictive diet, may also benefit from taking a multivitamin. However, they caution that taking supplements should never be a substitute for a healthy diet.
Other experts agree that taking a daily multivitamin can be beneficial, especially for certain populations. Dr. JoAnn Manson, chief of the division of preventive medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, suggests that people over the age of 50, who may have trouble absorbing nutrients from their food, can benefit from taking a multivitamin. She also recommends that people who do not eat enough nutrient-rich foods, such as fruits and vegetables, consider taking a multivitamin.
It is important to note that while multivitamins can be beneficial, they are not without risks. Taking too much of certain vitamins and minerals can be harmful to your health. For example, too much vitamin A can cause headaches, nausea, and even liver damage, while too much iron can cause constipation and stomach pain.
Before you start taking a multivitamin, it is important to talk to your doctor to ensure that it is safe for you to do so. They can help you determine whether you are at risk of any deficiencies and recommend a multivitamin that is appropriate for your needs.
In conclusion, there is no simple answer to whether or not you should take a daily multivitamin. While some people may benefit from taking a supplement, others may not need one. It is important to talk to your doctor and consider your individual needs before starting any supplement regimen. Remember, supplements should never be a substitute for a healthy diet.
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