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Do I need to take multivitamins?

Campaigns promoting healthy eating and a balanced diet often focus on an individual’s fruit and vegetable intake, as well as the merits of an active lifestyle. Whilst the importance of these activities cannot be underestimated, they are not the only action which can be taken – with vitamins providing a vital source of essential nutrients.

Yet, for those who choose to boost their health and fitness levels by ensuring they get all the nutrients they need, knowing what vitamins to take can be difficult. Whilst it has been reported that almost 25% of Brits regularly take supplements to aid their diet, not all of these individuals will be taking the right vitamins.

There is a vast selection of products available on the market, selling everything from individual vitamins and minerals (such as iron) to multivitamin supplements. Identifying what you need, and when you need it, is vitally important if you want to give yourself the best chance of maintaining a good level of health of fitness.

What to take?

The exact vitamins and minerals you need vary by a number of factors. Your build, age and health will all affect what you need whilst your diet will determine whether there are any nutritional gaps which need filling by supplements.

Those who do not suffer from a deficiency or who simply want to improve their overall nutritional intake can invest in multivitamin supplements from reputable brands such as Seven Seas. These cover all the major vitamins and minerals our bodies need to remain healthy.

When to take them?

Aside from identifying what you need to take, you also need to know when to take vitamins and minerals. Whilst multivitamin supplements can be taken at any time in order to boost your system, there are more specific instances when supplements might be needed.

For those with a deficiency which has been diagnosed by a trained doctor, supplements may be available on prescription. Alternatively, over-the-counter goods may be recommended and these will target a specific vitamin or mineral rather than a combination.

Anyone undergoing a major change to their body could also benefit from taking vitamins and minerals. Children need to make sure they get all the nutrients they need to promote healthy growth, whilst those in their later years may need supplements to combat deteriorating health levels.

Vitamin supplements may also be needed during pregnancy when there is a greater demand placed on the body and, therefore, a greater demand for nutrients.

Why is it important?

Choosing to take vitamins is just one step in achieving a healthy lifestyle. Supplements can help to promote high health and fitness levels, prevent deficiencies and ensure we have the basic nutritional intake we need.

Of course, for this to be really effective it needs to be combined with other healthy practices. This includes eating a healthy diet which contains a generous provision of fruit and vegetables, whilst covering all major food groups and leading an active lifestyle.