top of page
Writer's pictureK Patel, MD, MPH

Do you really need a multivitamin daily?

If you check out the grocery or pharmacy aisle for over-the-counter supplements, the number and variety of various multivitamin supplements may unquestionably overwhelm you. Having said that, do you really need a multivitamin daily?

Research and studies show no significant benefit or impact on health by taking a multivitamin daily as far as your diet is balanced. You can get most of the vitamins and minerals from well-balanced diet consisting of fruits, veggies, whole grains, dairy, lean protein, beans and legumes. However, if you take a multivitamin daily whether your diet is balanced or not, it is usually considered safe.


Image Source: Wix Library

There are certain situations when you can definitely benefit from specific types of vitamins as discussed below:

  • Iron and folic acid supplements with other vitamins are important during pregnancy. Most of the prenatal vitamins contain the required amounts.


  • Iron, Vitamin D and Vitamin B12 supplementation is vital in those who had bariatric (weight loss) surgery as they may not absorb these well especially after some types of surgeries


  • If you are vegan, you may need Vitamin B12 supplementation as most of it comes from animal sources. Those above 50 years of age may need additional Vitamin B12 supplementation as they may not absorb it as easily from the food sources. Also, sublingual (dissolves underneath the tongue) Vitamin B12 may absorb much better than the one you swallow.


  • Vitamin D and Calcium supplements help in strengthening the bones in women after menopause which in turn can help in preventing fractures


  • Newborns who are completely or partially breastfed may need Vitamin D supplement until they are switched to whole milk or Vitamin D fortified formula.


This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or re-distributed. This material is informational and does not provide any medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.


© 2020 - 2021 Zymo Health, subsidiary of My Health One Place, LLC. All rights reserved.

90 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

コメント


Post: Blog2 Post
bottom of page