There has been a lot of controversy in the news lately about whether a person should take a multi-vitamin. Obviously, most of our vitamins and minerals should come from the foods we eat, especially if we're making good decisions for fruits, vegetables, whole grains, proteins, and the other good foods we need to stay healthy. However, many people choose to take a multi-vitamin in addition to having a good diet to ensure that they are getting everything their bodies require.

What are the benefits of taking a multi-vitamin?

If you are eating foods rich in vitamins and minerals, you are getting the ingredients at the top of the list. However, you may be getting too little of the trace elements that are at the bottom of our usual list. This can include potassium, iron, selenium, zinc, chromium, and manganese.

Do our bodies need different vitamins as we age?

Yes, our bodies have different needs as we progress through the different stages of our lives. For instance, pregnant women need a multi-vitamin during the first trimester to make sure their baby is receiving the proper nutrition. Women who are active, or are approaching middle age, need to increase calcium to help prevent fractures and bone loss. Vegetarians must carefully weigh their options, as they usually need extra vitamins B12 and D, calcium, iron, and zinc. These would usually be supplied by the meat in their diet, so they must make up for its lack with a multi-vitamin.

How do I pick the right multi-vitamin for my body?

Like any other product, you get what you pay for when you buy vitamins. Health food stores and natural food stores are a good place to buy your multi-vitamins and other supplements. Be sure to check the expiration date on the label to ensure they will be good while you work your way through the bottle. The label will also have a %DV that will tell you the recommended daily allowance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Don't be tempted to buy mega-vitamins. Standard multi-vitamins will have everything you need and you don't want to ingest too much of a particular vitamin or mineral.

How will I know I'm taking the proper multi-vitamins to meet my body's needs?

I have helped hundreds of clients in and around the Las Vegas area balance their exercise, diets, and nutrition needs to meet their health and fitness goals. I would love to share my expertise with you and help you integrate these healthy lifestyle changes into your daily routine. Many clients have found that taking a multi-vitamin every day at the same time is a great option because it is the part of their schedule that can be incorporated without a second thought. If you are interested in looking and feeling better, call me or send me an e-mail and we will start your journey to a healthier new you!