Who Needs Vitamin and Mineral Supplements?
On February 25, 2026 By newsroom Topic: Health And Fitness Skills
While most people get the nutrients they need from food, certain groups may benefit from supplements. Here's a breakdown:
1. Pregnancy and Fertility
- Planning to conceive:
- Folic acid: 400 mcg daily to prevent neural tube birth defects.
- Pregnant women:
- Folic acid: 400 mcg to protect against neural tube defects.
- Vitamin D: 800 IU to lower the risk of pre-eclampsia.
Note: Prenatal vitamins are often recommended but may not be necessary for women with balanced diets.
2. Dietary Restrictions
- Strict vegans:
- Vitamin B12: Needed since it's primarily found in animal products.
3. Limited Sun Exposure
- Low sun exposure:
- Vitamin D3: 800 IU daily to compensate for lack of natural vitamin D synthesis.
4. Medication Use
- Heartburn drugs (e.g., lansoprazole) or diabetes medications (e.g., metformin):
- Vitamin B12 and magnesium: May need supplements due to nutrient depletion caused by these medications.
5. Osteoporosis
- Bone health:
- Vitamin D3: 800 IU or more as prescribed.
- Calcium: 1,000–1,200 mg daily from food or supplements to slow bone loss.
6. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
- Eye health:
- AREDS formulation: Includes vitamins C and E, copper, lutein, zeaxanthin, and zinc to slow disease progression.
7. Chronic Conditions
- Gastrointestinal disorders (e.g., IBD, celiac disease) or severe illnesses (e.g., cancer, HIV/AIDS):
- Speak with a doctor about tailored supplements to address nutrient absorption challenges.
Summing it up
- Consult a doctor for testing and specific recommendations.
- Choose high-quality supplements, such as prescription versions or those with seals from reputable groups (e.g., U.S. Pharmacopeia).
- Supplements are most effective when addressing proven deficiencies or specific medical needs.
Pro Tip: Balanced diets often negate the need for supplements, except in specific circumstances.
