Multivitamins
What is a Multivitamin?
A multivitamin is a dietary supplement that provides a wide array of necessary vitamins, minerals and other nutrients. A healthy diet based on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, etc. should provide adequate amounts of nutrients for most people. However, many factors can affect proper nutrition, such as strict vegetarianism, the use of certain medications, and some illnesses.
It has also become increasingly difficult to obtain proper nutrition while living a modern lifestyle. With such health hazards as stress, pollution, and poor or erratic diet, people today are often deficient in many key vitamins and nutrients. A multivitamin supplement, while not a complete solution, may help fight deficiencies and help improve health for those living a fast-paced lifestyle.
There are many different multivitamin supplements available, including extra strength formulas and specialized formulas for women, men, people 50+ years of age, children, and pregnant women. It is important to consult your health care provider for guidelines on which multivitamin supplement is right for you.
Extra Strength Formulas
An extra strength formula is more potent in vitamins and nutrients than a regular multivitamin. Certain individuals such as those with a poor diet or with certain illnesses may benefit from this type of formula. Consult your physician.
Women
Adequate consumption of calcium (1000-1200 mg per day, and up to 1500 mg in post menopausal women) is very important for women in order to avoid osteoporosis. Younger women may require more iron, and all women of child-bearing age should take at least 400 mcg of folic acid daily.
Men
Men should not take a multivitamin high in iron, as excess iron has been linked to heart disease.
50+ Years of Age
Choose an iron-free multivitamin, as excess iron has been linked to heart disease. People 50+ years of age also have an increased need for calcium (1200 mg/daily), vitamin D (400-600 IU; 10-15 mcg), and B-complex vitamins.
Children
A healthy, balanced diet should provide your child with adequate vitamins and nutrients. Consult your child’s pediatrician about supplementing with a multivitamin.
Pregnant Women
Pregnant women have important nutritional needs. Consult your ob/gyn for guidelines on choosing a multivitamin for your needs.
Vegetarians/Vegans
Strict vegetarians that do not consume any animal or dairy products may need to supplement their diet with B-complex vitamins, zinc, iron and calcium. It is also important that a vegetarian diet be balanced in amino acids. Consult your health care provider for advice on which multivitamin is best. A wide variety of all-vegetarian supplements are available.
Usage Indications
Read labels thoroughly; dietary supplements are not regulated by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the same way that foods and pharmaceuticals are, and quality may vary by manufacturer. It is important to consult your health care provider or nutritionist for guidelines on choosing a multivitamin supplement to fit your nutritional needs.
Multivitamin supplements are not intended to be a total replacement for a healthy diet and lifestyle. Foods contain many vital chemicals and nutrients that cannot be obtained through a supplement. Consult a nutritionist or health care provider for dietary guidelines.
- Indications: Any negative side effects resulting from a dietary supplement should be reported immediately to your health care provider.
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Product List for Multivitamins |
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