Decoding Multivitamins: Assessing Their Potential in Reducing Vitamin Deficiency Risks
A multivitamin essentially is a replacement drug, (available in the form of a tablet, capsule, liquid, powder, or made to be interpolated in nature) or a type of medicinal concoction of various vitamins, minerals, and plausible chemicals or hormones, which works as a substitute for the necessary vitamins, and minerals that our body may be lacking.
A multivitamin essentially serves the purpose of strengthening one’s immune system, and the body’s basal core tenacity, whilst also working towards improving one’s overall nutrition intake.
As per health experts, consuming multivitamins daily from a reputable brand gives our body the benefits it needs. Depending on the brand, multivitamins come in different forms like capsules, liquids, powders, or chewable gummies.
How do multivitamins work?
When you consume a multivitamin, it begins to dissolve and travels through your body in various ways. Vitamins A, D, E, and K are fat-soluble and enter the bloodstream via the lymphatic channels of the intestinal wall. Vitamins B and C are water-soluble, so they are readily absorbed into the bloodstream. Minerals like chloride, sodium, and potassium can be easily absorbed but mineral like calcium requires a carrier for its absorption and other processes.
The benefits of taking multivitamins
There are 13 vitamins and around 15 minerals that play a really important role in the production of enzymes and hormones for the proper functioning of the body. As per WHO, more than 2 billion people in this world are suffering from nutrient deficiencies. This happens because most of the time we do not consume enough food as close to nature. The more processed the food is, the less nutrients it may have.
Therefore, consuming multivitamins can help bridge this gap and aid in the proper functioning of the body. Some of the important benefits of consuming multivitamins are:
- It helps build protein and strong bones.
- Reduces the risk of many diseases.
- Aids in maintaining a better vision.
- Provides antioxidant benefits.
- It helps in the reproduction, maintenance, and growth of the body.
The risks of taking a multivitamin
Consuming multivitamins on a daily basis can be helpful, as it will provide the nutrients that our bodies need which has been lacking through the diet alone. However, taking larger quantities of multivitamins without consulting an expert can be dangerous.
Some of the common side effects of multivitamins are:
- Constipation
- Tooth staining
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Diarrhoea
- Vomiting
Who should take a multivitamin?
When it comes to the functioning of multivitamins, there are several key aspects to consider. One may not realize that they may lack many vitamins and minerals that their body needs, and hence, before deciding whether to take a multivitamin supplement, answer these few questions:
- Do you regularly choose to eat a variety of different fruits and vegetables?
- Do you avoid processed foods?
- Does your diet consist of proteins like beans, peas, meat, and sprouts?
- Do you eat a variety of whole-grain foods like millet, oats, etc.?
- Do you consume at least 3 large meals a day?
How do I choose a multivitamin?
Standing at a pharmacy store and choosing from several multivitamin supplements can be overwhelming. Hence, here are some factors to look out for when choosing a multivitamin supplement:
- Age, gender, and other health-related factors.
- Choose the right nutrients.
- Iron
- Magnesium
- Vitamin B-12
Conclusion
To conclude, multivitamins boost our immune system to a great extent but it is also important to keep in mind that they are not any magical cure for our body. They can complement our requirements along with natural food sources and act as a nutritional gap to fill the deficiencies. It is essential to focus on a lifestyle change involving healthy eating habits and regular exercise regimen. Also, it is always advisable to consult a local physician or a health expert before deciding to take any supplements.
FAQs:
Treatment of cystitis requires dosage of antibiotics that is prescribed by a healthcare professional. Multivitamin can be consumed as a part of the treatment but not as a complement to prevent cystitis.
Biotin helps promote healthy hair, skin and nails. It is important to support the growth of your hair, skin and nails.
Selenium acts as an antioxidant that supports our immune functions. Some of the best sources of selenium are brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, tofu, mushrooms, etc.
Yes, there are multivitamins designed as per your kids requirements. It takes care of the growth and development of your kid.
Few multivitamins may consist of ingredients that promote anti-inflammatory properties like curcumin which help reduce overall inflammation in the body.
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