Multivitamin/multimineral supplements are the most popular dietary supplements in the United States. Millions of Americans take one every day, but finding the right multi is tricky. Ingredients vary from brand to brand, and finding the one for your needs depends on your age, sex, health, and lifestyle.
“I believe every person in the United States should be taking a multivitamin every day,” said Dr. Earl Mindell, author of “Earl Mindell’s Vitamin Bible.” While a multivitamin won’t solve all health problems and make up for a bad diet, it can help. “A multivitamin can help fill in the gaps that almost all Americans have in their diets,” Mindell tells NewsmaxHealth.
Use these tips to choose a multivitamin/multimineral supplement:
1. One size doesn’t fit all
Choose the right supplement for your age, sex, and health condition. Women of childbearing age may choose a supplement with iron, but senior citizens might prefer one that omits iron. If you believe that certain nutrients, such as CoQ10, are good for heart health, choose a supplement that contains extra amounts. If in doubt, ask a registered dietician or your doctor for advice specifically targeted toward your nutritional needs.