Taking multivitamin: do you need it and how to choose the right one?
Multivitamins are supplements that contain a combination of different vitamins and minerals. They are designed to promote daily intake of these essential nutrients, especially when the diet is deficient.
When do you need additional multivitamins?
Taking multivitamins can be especially helpful for people with specific nutritional needs, such as pregnant women, the elderly, vegetarians or vegans, and people with certain medical conditions.
For example, pregnant women have increased needs for certain nutrients such as folate, iron and calcium, which can be supported by prenatal multivitamins. Elderly people may benefit from multivitamins that contain extra vitamin D and B12, as the absorption of these vitamins decreases with age.
People with dietary restrictions, such as vegans and vegetarians, may also benefit from multivitamins to ensure they get enough of nutrients such as B12, iron and omega-3 fatty acids. In addition, people with certain health conditions or who are recovering from illness or surgery may need additional nutritional support.
One of the main reasons to take multivitamins is to prevent nutritional deficiencies. Modern eating habits, such as consuming processed foods and fast food, can cause us to not get all the nutrients we need. Multivitamins can help make up for these deficiencies to support overall health. In addition, they can strengthen the immune system, improve energy levels and contribute to better skin, hair and nails.
When (in the day) to take a multivitamin?
The best time to take a multivitamin may vary depending on the specific formula and personal preference. Generally, it is recommended to take multivitamins during a meal. This is because fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K) are better absorbed when consumed along with fat. In addition, taking multivitamins with food can help prevent any stomach upset.
Some people find it helpful to take their multivitamins with breakfast to start the day with a boost of essential nutrients. Others prefer to take their supplements at lunch or dinner. The important thing is to choose a consistent time that fits your daily routine so you don't forget to take it.
Is multivitamin healthy?
Taking a multivitamin can be healthy, especially if it helps supplement nutrients that may be missing from your diet. However, it is important to understand that multivitamins are not a substitute for a balanced and nutritious diet. They serve as a supplement and not a substitute for eating a variety of foods.
Although multivitamins are generally considered safe, it is possible to ingest too much of certain vitamins and minerals, which can be harmful. For example, an overdose of fat-soluble vitamins such as A and D can be toxic. Therefore, it is important to follow recommended dosages and, if necessary, consult with a health professional before beginning to take supplements.
How to choose the right multivitamin?
Choosing the right multivitamin can be challenging given the many options available. Here are some tips to help you make the best choice:
- Read the label: Check the ingredient list and the dosages of the vitamins and minerals. Make sure the multivitamin contains the nutrients you need without unnecessary additives.
- Choose quality: Look for products from reputable brands that meet quality standards and may have been third-party tested for purity and potency.
- Consider your needs: Tune your choice to your specific life stage and needs. There are multivitamins specially formulated for children, adults, seniors, pregnant women and people with specific dietary preferences.
- Avoid overdosing: Pay attention to dosages to avoid taking too much of certain vitamins and minerals, which can be harmful.
- Consult a professional: If in doubt, consult with a doctor or dietitian to make the best choice based on your personal health and nutritional needs.
Multivitamin and Losing Weight
While losing weight, you temporarily take in fewer calories than normal, this makes it extra important to properly support your body with some extra vitamins and minerals.
A shortage of vitamins and minerals can be noticed by the body, causing it to compensate by asking for more food/fuel. A shortage can therefore lead to feelings of hunger and overeating (binge eating). At NewFysic we have carefully composed multivitamins that specifically support during weight loss?
Why are these so important? We have listed some important reasons for you:
1. Dietary supplement
Our multivitamins contain iodine, an essential mineral which is important for maintaining a healthy metabolism and healthy thyroid function. In fact, iodine is added to bread, but not to crackers. Since you eat little to no bread during your NewFysic course, it is extra important to get iodine in another way.
In addition to iodine, it is also important to supplement vitamins A, D, E and K. These vitamins are mainly found in fatty foods and we limit their intake during your weight loss journey.
Our multivitamins are also enriched with chromium. Chromium reduces the need for sweets and stabilizes blood sugar levels, which reduces the feeling of hunger. Also very useful, when you are in the process of losing weight. 😉
2. Energy boost
The vitamins and minerals in our multivitamins support energy metabolism, which improves your energy level. This is an especially good addition at times when we experience a lot of stress or feel tired.
3. An optimal resistance
Vitamins and minerals play a crucial role in supporting our immune system. A strong immune system is essential to fight diseases and infections. We can use that, especially now that we are entering winter time again!
4. Healthy bones
Vitamin D is needed to absorb calcium from food into the body. So this is very important for growing and maintaining strong bones and teeth. Vitamin D can contribute to good bone health and reduce the risk of bone fractures, especially in older adults. In addition, vitamin D plays a role in proper muscle function and the immune system.
So our multivitamins are a valuable addition to a healthy lifestyle. We have a variant for every man and woman in every stage of life. Curious about our multivitamins? Take a look in our webshop via the button below!
Conclusion
Multivitamins can be a valuable addition to your daily diet, especially if your diet does not provide all the essential nutrients. They can help prevent deficiencies, support overall health and improve well-being.
However, it is important to think of them as a supplement to a healthy diet and not a replacement. By choosing the right multivitamin and taking it at the right time, you can take full advantage of the added value of these supplements.
Sources:
https://www.voedingscentrum.nl/encyclopedie/voedingssupplementen.aspx
https://www.voedingscentrum.nl/nl/thema/alles-over-supplementen.aspx
