Multivitamins are known as a quick and easy way to ensure that you're getting all of the vitamins and minerals your body needs to function at its best but with so many conflicting opinions, it can be hard to know whether or not you really need to take a multivitamin.
First, let's define What a Multivitamin?
Multivitamin is supplement that contains a combination of vitamins and minerals often at doses that meet or exceed the recommended daily intake.
These supplements may also contain other ingredients like herbs, amino acids, and antioxidants. Many people take multivitamins as a way to improve their overall health but there is limited evidence that multivitamins have any significant benefits.
In fact some studies have suggested that multivitamin use may be associated with an increased risk of certain health problems. One of the primary benefits that multivitamins are often marketed for is their potential to reduce the risk of heart disease.
However, research on this topic is mixed.
Some Studies have suggested that multivitamins May lower the risk of heart disease While others have found no significant effect also, the evidence on whether or not multivitamins can help prevent cancer is mixed while some studies have suggested that multivitamin use may be associated with a lower risk of certain types of cancer in men only.
Other Studies have found no effect however, there is some evidence to suggest that multivitamins may help support brain function memory and cognitive health, particularly in older adults.
According to a study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's disease found that taking daily multivitamins for 2 years was associated with better cognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment.
However, other studies have found no significant effect of multivitamins on brain function so, while multivitamins can be helpful for some people, they're not a magic pill sometimes taking high doses of certain vitamins and minerals can be harmful particularly when combined with a nutrient-dense diet.
For example, taking too much vitamin A can cause;
Nausea
Dizziness
Blurred vision
While taking too much iron can cause constipation and stomach pain.
So, do you really need to take a multivitamin?
The answer depends on the person, if you're an older adult following a low calorie diet, or a vegan you may benefit from taking a multivitamin to ensure that you're getting all the nutrients you need.
Some people may need to take a multivitamin due to specific health conditions or Medical Treatments like people with certain gastrointestinal conditions such as Crohn's disease, celiac disease, or gastric bypass surgery.
These people may have difficulty absorbing nutrients and could benefit from a multivitamin supplement. However, for most people, eating a healthy, balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein is the best way to get all the vitamins and minerals your body needs.
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