Everything you wanted to know about Multivitamins

Multivitamins

Multivitamins (MVI) aka “multis” are supplements that contain a combination of multiple vitamins and minerals. Each MVI product contains varying percentages of vitamins, so it is important to check the label to see which one works best for your personal needs.

How it works

When we eat food, our body breaks it down and uses it for energy, chemical processes, or storage for later. Our bodies need nutrients that aid in all these processes. Sometimes our diets are not well-rounded and can lead to gaps in nutrition. Filling in these gaps can be done with diet, but it is easier to take a MVI. By taking a MVI the body will be able to replenish nutrients and function properly.

Signs of vitamin deficiency

❖ Brittle hair and nails

❖ Bleeding gums, mouth ulcers

❖ Fatigue, lethargy

❖ Hair loss, dandruff

❖ Red or white bumps on the skin

Meds that ↓ vitamins and minerals

All prescription medications have the potential to deplete essential nutrients. Some medications deplete more amounts than others and can manifest as side effects of a medication. Other times there is no noticeable side effects. It is important to talk with our pharmacists to be aware of medications that could be depleting your nutrients.

Uses

❖ Vitamin/mineral deficiency

❖ Overall health promotion

❖ Chronic disease prevention

Dosing

There are numerous amounts of MVIs on the market, so how do you know which ones to choose?

❖ Look at your diet to see where you might be missing nutrients

❖ Check the label of the MVI to see what % daily value each nutrient is being supplemented (100% ideal)

❖ Remember to keep in mind age, sex, pregnancy status as different people need different nutrients

❖ Check to see if the MVI has been tested by the US Pharmacopoeia (USP). This organization has high standards for proper ingredients and there will be a seal on the bottle identifying this.

If the MVI has greater than the recommended daily intake of certain vitamins or minerals that is OK! Your body will use what it needs and then excrete the rest.

Forms

Many MVIs exist such as tablets, capsules, gummies, etc. If you are purchasing an MVI remember that gummies are more easily absorbed than tablets. To check if MVIs are going to be properly absorbed by the body you can place the MVI in a glass of water and leave it overnight. The products that are not totally dissolved will not be fully absorbed and are less effective.

Side Effects

Usually none, but may experience:

❖ Constipation, diarrhea

❖ Nausea, upset stomach

❖ Heartburn, unusual taste in mouth

❖ Dark colored stools or colored urine

Drug Interactions

Depending on the MVI content there could be a drug interaction. Talk with the pharmacist before taking a MVI to see if any of your medications will be compromised because of the MVI. One interaction to be aware of is medications that reduce blood clotting and vitamin K containing MVIs:

❖ Warfarin

Foods

The foods that contain the most vitamins and minerals are natural produce, dairy, meat, and fish. Remember to stay away from processed foods that do not have a lot of nutritional content. Top multivitamin and mineral packed foods are:

❖ Salmon, shellfish

❖ Beef, pork, chicken, etc.

❖ Kale/spinach/seaweed

❖ Broccoli

❖ Avocadoes

❖ Garlic

❖ Whole grains

❖ Potatoes

❖ Blueberries, dried fruits

❖ Egg yolks

❖ Almonds, cashews, other nuts

❖ Beans, lentils

Sniteman Pharmacy Statement

Supplements cannot replace the importance of healthy diet and exercise. It is important to continue to make healthy choices and create habits that will enhance the act of daily supplements. Talk with our pharmacists today regarding multivitamins and all our supplements!