A daily multivitamin can provide health benefits by providing the vitamins and minerals that we all need to maintain good health.
Americans have been taking multivitamin and mineral supplements since the early 1940s, when they first became available.
Multivitamin and mineral supplements are very popular and government estimates indicate more than a third of Americans take them. The company that manufacturers the products determine the types and levels of vitamins, minerals, and other ingredients in their specific multivitamin and mineral supplements and, as a result, many types are available in the marketplace.
When you are looking for a daily multivitamin or mineral supplement, you will find many products available. Most are recommended to be taken once a day. They generally contain all or most of the recommended vitamins and minerals, usually at levels close to the recommended daily intake values. They are available in formulations for children, adults, men, women, pregnant women, and seniors. These formulations typically provide varying amounts of the same vitamins and minerals, based on medical research to determine the specific needs of these various populations.
Generally, females take more multivitamins and mineral supplements than males, as noted in the following survey results. Overall, 36% of females and 31% of males take multivitamins and mineral supplements on a regular basis. Further, the number of people taking supplements increased with age. Specifically, 48% of women and 43% of men aged 71 years or older reported regularly taking supplements.
Minerals commonly found in multivitamin tablets may include calcium, potassium, magnesium, zinc, iodine, and others.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) indicates the most popular nutrient supplements are multivitamins, calcium, and vitamins B, C and D. Calcium supports bone health, and vitamin D helps our body absorb calcium. Vitamins C and E are antioxidants, and these are molecules that prevent cell damage and help to maintain health. It is known that women need iron during pregnancy, and breast-fed infants need vitamin D.
Women of child bearing age are recommended to take 400 micrograms of folic acid daily, whether from supplements or from fortified food. The NIH also instructs that vitamin B12 helps keep our nerve and blood cells healthy. Vitamin B12 mostly comes from meat, fish and dairy foods, so those who choose not to consume these foods may wish to consider taking a supplement to be sure to get enough of it.
Talk to your health care provider about any multivitamins or mineral supplements you take, or ask if any should be added to your daily routine. Yes, these are doctor’s orders!
