MULTIVITAMIN

DO YOU REALLY NEED TO TAKE A MULTIVITAMIN?

While people are made to believe that multivitamins help them stay healthy, my opinion is different. I always tell my clients that multivitamins cannot fully replace vitamins and minerals obtained in foods, which are more readily absorbed compared to supplements. Their main benefit is to help make up for deficiencies in our meals. I may only recommend them to people with special conditions, including pregnant women who require enough folic acid every day to protect their newborns from birth defects. Vegetarians and vegans can take multivitamins offering vitamin B12, calcium, and iron since they are unlikely to get enough from their diets. Other people with the need of consuming multivitamins, perhaps after consulting your doctor, should consider going for whole food-based and organic multivitamins with adequate content of each desired vitamin. Always check the labels for ingredients and ensure the product is certified by third-party testing for contaminants. Otherwise, if you lack a reason for using supplements, I recommend relying on various foods and food groups to maintain a good health.

Julia Davis

Mental health expert
MS, University of Latvia

I am deeply convinced that each patient needs a unique, individual approach. Therefore, I use different psychotherapy methods in my work. During my studies, I discovered an in-depth interest in people as a whole and the belief in the inseparability of mind and body, and the importance of emotional health in physical health. In my spare time, I enjoy reading (a big fan of thrillers) and going on hikes.

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