Beyond these ingredients, there are a few other factors to consider when choosing a multivitamin. The first is your age and life stage. For example, older women might choose one labeled 50+, while those hoping to conceive might look for prenatal vitamins. The type and size of the supplement, certification (a third-party assessment, such as NSF or USP, of the effectiveness of a particular formula), and dosage are also useful considerations. When choosing the best one for you, it’s important to not only follow the advice of your healthcare provider, but also think about how the supplement will fit into your daily life, especially if you’re combining it with probiotics or other ingestibles.
Should women take a daily multivitamin?
According to Shah, necessary If you maintain a balanced and varied diet rich in whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, taking a daily multivitamin is a good idea. Supplements cannot fully replicate the range of nutrients you get from these sources. She continues that most health organizations recommend focusing on getting nutrients from food rather than supplements. “To make an informed decision, always consult with your healthcare provider whether a daily multivitamin is necessary for your health requirements and dietary pattern,” says Shah.
Do multivitamins really work?
Shah explains that for most healthy women who eat a balanced and varied diet, taking a daily multivitamin may not provide significant health benefits. A comprehensive review of 84 trials of vitamin and mineral supplements by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force concluded that taking a multivitamin offers little to no benefit in preventing chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. Shah explains that if a deficiency is found in a specific vitamin or mineral, such as vitamin D, B12, or iron, a health care professional will likely recommend taking a standalone supplement instead of a multivitamin.
It’s also important to keep in mind that “women’s nutritional needs vary widely depending on their specific life stages, health conditions, dietary habits and lifestyle factors, so a one-size-fits-all daily multivitamin may not necessarily be the best solution,” Shah adds.
What is the best time to take a multivitamin?
Shah explains that the best time to take your multivitamin depends on several factors, including the types of vitamins and minerals it contains and any potential interactions with medications. Multivitamins often contain both water-soluble and fat-soluble vitamins. Shah recommends taking your multivitamin with a meal to aid absorption and reduce the risk of stomach upset. This method helps your body utilize the nutrients more effectively.
Fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins D, A, E, and K, are best absorbed when taken with a meal that contains fat. Even consuming a small amount of yogurt or low-fat milk can boost absorption. Water-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin B12 and vitamin C, are best taken on an empty stomach with a glass of water, and taking vitamin B12 in the morning can avoid potential sleep disorders. Additionally, taking your multivitamin at the same time each day can help establish a routine. “When taking a multivitamin, it’s also important to drink plenty of water to aid in digestion and absorption,” she adds.
