Research shows that taking a high-quality multivitamin may help lower your risk of cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Many vitamins, such as vitamin C and magnesium, play important roles in cardiovascular health. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that has been shown to protect the heart from damage. Vitamin D and E also boost immunity and may help reduce allergies.
While multivitamins are beneficial for your health, they are not a substitute for a well-balanced diet. If you suspect that your diet is not enough to provide the vitamins and minerals your body needs, talk to your doctor. Some multivitamins can interact with medications, so you must consider this when choosing a supplement.
Depending on your age and gender, you may need to take different vitamins and minerals. Premenopausal women need higher amounts of iron and vitamin D, while older people require higher amounts of calcium and vitamin B6. A family doctor or dietitian can help you determine your specific requirements. Some multivitamins may skip the micronutrients you may need, such as calcium and folic acid.
Make sure your multivitamin is certified. You can find certification through the U.S. Pharmacopeial Convention (USP) or other independent nonprofit organizations. These certifications ensure the quality and purity of the supplement. Look for the seal “USP” – the United States Pharmacopeia. If you find one with this seal, it means it has undergone independent testing and meets the requirements of the FDA.
When taken regularly, multivitamins can help treat a variety of nutritional deficiencies and may benefit the general population. However, they can be harmful if taken in excess. They are recommended for people who are not receiving enough nutrients through their diet. But they should be taken in moderation and not as a substitute for a well-balanced diet.
A multivitamin should contain vitamins A, C, D, E, and K, as well as the various B vitamins. It should also include minerals like calcium, iodine, magnesium, and iron. If you are unsure whether you need iron, consult your healthcare provider. However, many multivitamins do not contain iron, which can cause digestive issues in some people.
The amount of each serving in a multivitamin should be listed on the label. Make sure you are taking the correct number of pills a day. The label should also mention the name of the company that makes the supplement. Make sure the company has a solid reputation. A multivitamin that contains the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) or has the United States Pharmacopea seal of approval is a good choice.
In general, a multivitamin is safe to take, but there are some risks. In some cases, taking a multivitamin can increase your risk of heart disease and lung cancer. This is because it contains beta-carotene, which may increase your risk of getting lung cancer.
