Deciding whether or not to take a multivitamin daily can be confusing. With so many options available, it is essential to understand both the benefits and the different types of multivitamins available. Read on to help you make an informed decision as we address the question, "should I take a multivitamin daily?"
Benefits of Multivitamins
Multivitamins are an effective way to fill nutritional gaps in your diet and it’s surprising how many Americans fall short on essential micronutrients. Traditionally, we’ve been told that multivitamins and minerals are most beneficial for specific groups, including older adults, pregnant women, those with malabsorption issues, and individuals on restricted diets.
But consider this, more than 90% of our daily caloric intake can be traced back to soil. Intensive and poorly managed farming practices have led to a significant decline in soil nutrients, with nitrogen levels dropping by 42%, phosphorus by 27%, and sulfur by 33%. These nutrients are essential for plants to thrive, supporting processes like photosynthesis, enzyme activity, and protein synthesis.
This decrease in soil fertility, combined with selective breeding, has compromised the nutritional content of some fruits, vegetables, and grains. In fact, studies have shown that the levels of calcium, phosphorus, iron, riboflavin, magnesium, and vitamin C in fresh fruits and vegetables are up to 40% lower today than they were in the 1950s. For example, you'd need to eat eight oranges today to get the same amount of vitamin C that your grandparents received from just one.
This means it is getting harder and harder to meet nutrient needs solely from food—even when we’re eating a healthy diet. While these nutrient gaps may not cause immediate symptoms, their cumulative impact can significantly accelerate the aging process. Smart supplementation with the right nutrients in the right forms can help bridge the gap.
Impact on Health
Think of multivitamins as a form of nutritional insurance. They ensure you receive adequate amounts of essential vitamins and minerals, which can be challenging to achieve through diet alone, regardless of soil quality. This is especially important if you have dietary restrictions or specific health conditions that affect nutrient absorption.
When it comes to multivitamin and mineral supplementation, strong evidence suggests that consistent use of a multivitamin can significantly improve both mental and physical health over time. Optimizing the intake of essential nutrients is one way to preserve cognitive function and protect brain health. For instance, a recent study revealed that people over 65 who took a daily multivitamin for three years slowed age-related cognitive decline by 60%, equivalent to gaining about 1.8 years of cognitive function.
Fortunately, you can address these nutrient deficiencies simply by choosing a supplement that prioritizes bioavailability, natural nutrient synergy, and meets the heightened nutritional demands of modern life.
Quality and Precision Matters
When choosing a multivitamin, quality is crucial. Look for products that follow cGMP guidelines and are free of artificial ingredients. Look for active and bioavailable forms of nutrients like B vitamins. Also, be sure to consider your specific health needs and lifestyle. Most folks don’t need mega doses of vitamins and minerals or a kitchen-sink style formula that may overlap with other supplements. If you are unsure about your dietary needs, a healthcare provider can offer personalized advice. Additionally, it is important to consider any medications you are taking, as some vitamins and minerals can interact with them.
A Balanced Approach
Remember that multivitamins are supplements, not substitutes for a healthy diet. They work best when used in conjunction with a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle choices. Regular exercise, adequate sleep, meditation/yoga/qi gong and other stress management techniques are also vital components of overall well-being.
Apeiron Elementals' High-Quality Multivitamin to Supplement Overall Health
At Apeiron Elementals, we believe in providing high-quality supplements to support your overall health. Our Foundation Multivitamin is designed to fill nutritional gaps and support long term well-being. It provides bioavailable, essential nutrients in doses that allow you to stack additional supplementation without worrying about getting too much of any one nutrient. To take our multivitamin, simply follow the recommended dosage on the label, and incorporate it into your daily routine. By choosing our Foundational Multivitamin, you can ensure you are getting the essential nutrients your body needs.