Aside from these ingredients, there are a few other factors we recommend looking into to inform your choice of multivitamin. First is age or life stage. For example, older women might turn to options labeled 50+, while someone who is looking to conceive may want a prenatal vitamin. The supplement’s supplement type and size, certifications (third-party evaluations, like NSF or USP, of the efficacy of the particular formula), and dosage are also helpful considerations. When selecting the best for you, it’s important to not only heed the advice of your health services provider, but to think about how the supplement will fit into your daily routine—especially if you’re looking to pair it with probiotics or other ingestible.
Should women take multivitamins daily?
According to Shah, it’s not essential to take multivitamins daily if you maintain a balanced, varied diet rich in whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Supplements can’t fully replicate the spectrum of nutrients available from these sources. She continues that most health organizations recommend focusing on obtaining nutrients from food rather than supplements. “To make an informed decision, always consult a healthcare provider to determine if a daily multivitamin is necessary for your health requirements and dietary patterns,” says Shah.
Do multivitamins really work?
Shah explains that daily multivitamins may not provide significant health benefits for most healthy women with a balanced, varied diet. A comprehensive review by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, analyzing 84 vitamin and mineral supplement trials, concluded that taking a multivitamin provides little to no benefit in preventing chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. She explains that if a deficiency in a specific vitamin or mineral, such as vitamin D, B12, or iron, is found, a healthcare provider will likely recommend taking a single supplement rather than a multivitamin.
It’s also important to note that “A one-size-fits-all daily multivitamin may not be the best solution for everyone, as women’s nutritional needs vary significantly based on specific life stages, health conditions, dietary habits, and lifestyle factors,” adds Shah.
What is the best time to take multivitamins?
Shah explains that the best time to take multivitamins depends on several factors, including the types of vitamins and minerals included and potential interactions with medications. Multivitamins often contain both water- and fat-soluble vitamins. She recommends taking multivitamins with food to aid absorption and reduce the risk of stomach upset, as this approach helps your body utilize the nutrients more effectively.
Fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins D, A, E, and K, are best absorbed with a meal containing fats; even small amounts of yogurt or low-fat milk can enhance 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 help avoid potential sleep disturbances. Additionally, taking your multivitamins at the same time each day can help establish a routine. “It’s also important to drink plenty of water when taking your multivitamin to help with digestion and absorption,” she adds.
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