These days there are a wide variety of multivitamins and vitamins to choose from if you are a woman, and it can be hard to find which one is best. While I am a firm believer that you do not need to take a vitamin supplement if you eat a healthy, balanced diet, these days many people do struggle to eat in a proper way and it can be good to err on the side of caution.
The type of vitamin that is best to take can vary based on your age, where you live, if you are considering have children, or if you are breastfeeding. The best thing you can do before starting a new vitamin routine is to speak with your doctor to make sure your choice is suitable for you.
Here are a few things to think about when choosing your vitamins:
1) Don’t mix and match – One vitamin may be good for you, but this does not mean taking three multivitamins is better for you. You can easily end up taking too much and doing harm rather than good. While your body does stop absorbing some vitamins when you consume too much, calcium, vitamin A and others can cause you problems if you take too much. Follow the instructions carefully so you know what you should take.
2) Follow the recommendations – If you are pregnant or planning on getting pregnant soon, you want to make sure you are taking vitamins that do not have too much vitamin A. This means you should make sure your multi-vitamin is OK to take as a pregnant woman. Not all vitamins are recommended. You also will need extra folic acid if you are following recommendations by the APA. If you are unsure, you can always talk to your local pharmacist before purchasing.
3) Try skipping a multiple – If you have a pretty healthy diet already, try just buying a few vitamins that you may need, and skipping the rest. Most multi-vitamins are hard to digest, the best source of vitamins is food. If you live in a cold, dark climate, consider taking Vitamin D. If you are a vegetarian, are pregnant, or feeling a bit low, get your iron levels checked and consider taking a bit of extra iron. If you are a woman of a certain age, consider upping your calcium to help fight osteoporosis (but don’t overdo it!). You don’t need the multivitamin, and you may be better off without it.
Editor’s note: For more information on older women and vitamins, read this article published on Monday, August 26th.
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