Who Needs a Multivitamin?

In a perfect world, nobody would need to take a multivitamin. We’d get all the essential vitamins, minerals and trace nutrients our bodies need from the foods we eat. But due to a host of factors too numerous to cover here, that’s just not always possible or realistic.

As recently as 2002, the Journal of the American Medical Association, or JAMA, recommended a daily multivitamin for all adults. Since then, however, that consensus has broken down for various reasons. Today, health professionals still recommend a daily multi for certain groups who are more predisposed to nutritional deficiencies.

Pregnant Women

Most doctors will encourage the use of a good prenatal vitamin to women who are either already pregnant or of childbearing age and actively trying to get pregnant. Certain nutritional requirements increase during pregnancy to ensure a healthy newborn, including vitamin C, iron, folic acid and other B vitamins.

Vegans & Vegetarians

Vegans and strict vegetarians have a hard time filling certain nutritional needs, specifically vitamin B-12, calcium and iron, and should consult their doctors about the use of a multivitamin. Vegetarians who still consume dairy products and maintain a diet rich in plant-based protein and leafy green vegetables are likely getting what their bodies need without a need for supplementation.

If You’re on a Diet

Low-calorie diets can be so restrictive that not only do they cause weight loss, they inevitably result in certain nutritional deficiency. Consult a doctor or nutritionist to make sure your daily diet maintains optimal levels of key vitamins and minerals.

Over 60

Your body changes as you age, as does your lifestyle and diet. For various reasons, older people don’t always consume a balanced diet that provides enough essential nutrition. Common shortfalls include vitamin D, certain B vitamins and magnesium, an essential mineral for a plethora of bodily functions.

Whether you prefer taking multivitamins or eating nutrient-rich foods, make sure you’re getting a balanced diet.

Source: Swanson