Most vitamins and minerals are “essential nutrients” – that means our bodies can’t make them on our own so we must source them from our diet.
If you eat a healthy, balanced diet containing at least five serves of veggies and two serves of fruit, along with adequate protein, fats and carbs, your body should be well-nourished. Sadly, most of us don’t eat the way we should!
That’s where multivitamins may help. Multivitamins are supplements that contain a wide range of essential vitamins and minerals that may help our bodies obtain these nutrients if our diet is lacking.
Who would benefit from a multivitamin?
Your need for vitamins and minerals can vary, depending on various factors:
age – children, teenagers and people of retirement age may have a higher need for certain vitamins and minerals than the average person.
overall health.
gender – women who are pregnant or breast-feeding may need a vitamin and mineral boost to keep themselves and their baby well-nourished during this demanding period.
stress – a heavy workload and stress can put extra demands on your body.
diet – if your diet leaves a lot to be desired, you may be low in certain nutrients, so you may benefit from a supplement.
Taking a multivitamin and mineral supplement every day is an easy way to top up your daily intake – ask your doctor or pharmacist if it’s right for you.
Vitamins supplements should not replace a balanced diet.
