Some people think that multi vitamins could be the solution to all their health problems. Others dismiss them as a useless gimmick. In fact, the degree to which you may benefit from multi vitamins is a highly individualised inquiry.
What are multi vitamins?
Multi vitamins are a type of supplement, available in tablet, powder, capsule or even gummy form, that combines a range of different vitamins, minerals and other nutrients. This means they can theoretically offer a broader range of benefits than a supplement for a single nutrient. They are one of the most popular types of dietary supplement available, but there is mixed evidence regarding their effectiveness.
Why take multi vitamins?
Supplements are most beneficial for those who cannot achieve their recommended nutritional intake just from their diet. For instance, some people live in food deserts where it is difficult to access fresh fruit or vegetables. Others have allergies or other restrictions that limit what they can eat.
Even relatively affluent people may be nutritionally deficient. In other cases, people may need a higher-than-average intake that cannot realistically be achieved even from a diet that is healthy and balanced. Age, pregnancy, certain health conditions and some medications can all affect your nutritional needs.
Arguments against multi vitamins
Most research into multi vitamins suggests they are only effective when combined with a balanced diet and other factors such as adequate levels of exercise. Over Reliance on supplements can discourage you from making the more significant lifestyle changes you may need for more sustainable health benefits.
In general, taking one multivitamin tablet every day is unlikely to be harmful, so many people consider it worthwhile in the hope it will boost their essential nutrients, and therefore their health. It is, however, possible to consume excess vitamins, which can cause a different set of health problems. You need a dosage carefully calibrated to your particular biology.
If you are considering adding multi vitamins to your daily routine, it is probably best to discuss with a doctor or nutritionist whether they will be beneficial in consideration of your overall diet and lifestyle.
