Vitamin and mineral supplements provide essential nutrients that may be lacking in daily diets. They include a wide range of products, from single-nutrient supplements like vitamin D or iron to multivitamins that combine many different nutrients. These supplements can help bridge dietary gaps and support overall health, but they are not a substitute for a balanced diet.
1. Needs-Based Selection: Choose supplements based on specific dietary needs or deficiencies identified through blood tests.
2. Form and Absorption: The form of the vitamin or mineral (e.g., magnesium citrate vs. magnesium oxide) can affect absorption and efficacy.
3. Daily Values: Be mindful of the % Daily Value (%DV) to avoid excessive intake, which can be harmful.
When selecting vitamin and mineral supplements, opt for products that provide close to 100% of the Daily Value without greatly exceeding it, especially for fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K. Always consider your total dietary intake and potential interactions with other supplements or medications.