Getting the right vitamins and minerals is key to a healthy life. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), multivitamin supplements are the most commonly used among all U.S. age groups.

Multivitamins Make Up for a Poor Diet

One of the most common medical myths is that you can take a multivitamin to make up for a diet lacking important nutrients. But ideally, it's best to get the essential vitamins and minerals from your foods.

If you're deficient in a particular vitamin or mineral, supplementation can help. But taking a multivitamin alone won't be enough to provide your body with what it needs if you're eating an unhealthy diet otherwise.

Fruits, vegetables, and grains are packed with healthy nutrients your body needs to stay healthy. While it can certainly help to take a multivitamin daily, it's usually not enough to give you the healthy nutrients you can find in natural foods.

You Can't Overdose on Vitamins and Minerals

Since most supplements are marketed as being healthy for your body, you may think overdosing on them is impossible. But taking too many vitamins and minerals can harm your health.

Some foods like sports bars and fortified cereals contain well over the recommended daily allowance of certain vitamins and minerals. If you add supplements to the mix, it could result in some serious side effects.

Sometimes, taking too many vitamins or too high a dose can damage your vital internal organs. For example, taking too much vitamin A can harm the liver, and too much vitamin C can cause stomach and kidney issues. Ensure you know how much you consume daily, including your foods, to avoid an accidental overdose.

All Supplements are Regulated

All prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medication is heavily regulated under the FDA or the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Vitamins and minerals are not regulated, so the FDA doesn't decide whether they're safe and effective before they hit the shelves.

As a consumer, you're left to determine which products are safe and suitable for you. As soon as supplements are sold, the FDA and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) monitor labels to look for misleading claims. Otherwise, these agencies don't get involved in the manufacturing process.

Some consumer watchdogs watch a few vitamin and mineral brands and products, but strict government regulations are still different. Make sure you look for products that contain the exact type and amount of ingredients they have listed on the label.

If you're worried about the products you take, make sure you choose professional dietary supplements made by a company you can trust. SupplementRelief.com offers professional formulas from reputable brands that we personally use and trust. Research the brand and make your own informed decision.

You Don't Really Need Supplements

While a multivitamin can't make up for a poor diet, some people believe there's no need for supplements. Yet using the right supplements can provide many benefits and help some people manage specific health conditions.

People on a calorie-restricted diet may benefit from taking vitamins and minerals. Those who are allergic to dairy products can benefit significantly from taking calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin K.

Vegans and people on a strict vegetarian diet will benefit greatly from taking B12 and vitamin B complex supplements. And women who are pregnant need to take folic acid during their pregnancies.

So, what vitamins should I take and how often? The answer depends on your health, your current diet, and any specific vitamins or minerals your body lacks.

One way to determine which supplements are right for you is to speak to your doctor. Ask for a blood test to get a clearer picture of what your body needs.

Vitamins Should Only be Taken on an Empty Stomach

Some myths about vitamins claim they should only be consumed on an empty stomach. Many vitamins are water-soluble, which means they dissolve in water and absorb into the body regardless of whether your stomach is full.

Some fat-soluble vitamins should only be taken with food containing some fat. These include vitamins A, D, E, and K and should only be taken with fat to ensure proper absorption.

On the other hand, taking a complete multivitamin and other types of water-soluble vitamins on an empty stomach can lead to stomach problems like nausea. Consult the directions provided on the product label. Ultimately, it's up to you whether or not you should take those supplements with or without food.

Know the Truth About Supplements

Remember these myths about vitamins and minerals to make a better-informed decision about your supplement plan. From the potential side effects and knowing which supplements provide the best benefits, being armed with information is the best way to ensure your body gets what it needs.

If you're looking for more ways to enhance your health, take a look at our Blog which covers a wide range of health and wellness topics that may interest you.