A daily multi, generally taken as a once-a-day capsule, usually contains a broad spectrum of vitamins and minerals, but this may not provide all the nutrients our bodies need, or be in a form that we can absorb. Plus, there are many other nutrients like phytonutrients, antioxidants, fiber and fatty acids that are found in a balanced diet that are not included in most multivitamin formulations.

Additionally, many multivitamins may not dissolve, be absorbed or utilized well by our bodies, so taking a quality supplement is essential.

Ultimately, the best way to obtain nutrients is through a balanced diet rich in organic fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean free-range proteins. But, even with a good, clean, balanced diet, our health status and lifestyle may require additional supplementation.

There are tests available, such as Nutreval by Genova Diagnostics, that help health professionals determine if a client’s intake is adequate and, in many cases, see if they are absorbing and utilizing these nutrients.

Athletes, vegetarian or vegan individuals with a restrictive diet and people with digestive or elimination issues will need to pay specific attention to their nutrient intake and will benefit from specific supplementation. Working with health professionals can help determine what additional supplementation would be beneficial and the best form of nutrients to be taken. An example is vegetarians are generally lacking vitamin B12 in their diet. This is a highly important nutrient for energy, methylation, detoxification and needed for staying healthy.

Consuming an excessive amount of certain vitamins and minerals can be harmful and can lead to imbalances in the body. It’s critical to avoid mega doses of vitamins and minerals unless a certain health status or qualified professional determines such a need.

It is also important to understand that not all multivitamin supplements are created equal. Quality, bioavailability and dosage of nutrients can vary widely. So it’s vital to choose a reliable brand and consult with a healthcare professional to help determine which one is best and if it will provide what our body needs.

While multivitamin/minerals can be a helpful way to fill potential nutrient gaps in our diets; it shouldn’t be relied on as a sole source of nutritional balancing for everyone. The best way to meet nutritional needs is to eat a clean, balanced diet, consider health status and lifestyle, and if necessary, work with a healthcare professional to determine specific nutrients that may be needed based on individual circumstances and guided by reviewing a thorough health history, labs and current issues and complaints. A registered dietitian or healthcare provider can offer personalized advice based on specific health and dietary requirements.