Considering a multivitamin? If you are on a restricted diet, have a chronic medical condition, are pregnant or elderly, a multivitamin supplement may be advisable. Sometimes it is difficult to meet all our nutritional needs from diet alone.
Selecting the right balance of vitamins for your condition is important. Talk to the healthcare provider who is knowledgeable about your condition. Your physician or pharmacist can provide information regarding supplements that will work best for you.
Year-round, vitamin D supplementation is strongly recommended. Low exposure to sunlight in the winter months and proper use of sunscreens in the summer make it difficult for our bodies to produce enough vitamin D naturally. Newborns and infants often require some supplements, even if breastfed.
Vitamin D helps you absorb calcium and phosphorus for stronger bones. What vitamins you take together is also important. Taking vitamins in specific combinations can improve or reduce how the vitamins may work for you.
Taking vitamin C with your iron helps you absorb more iron. While taking milk with your iron can reduce the absorption.
Some conditions deplete or prevent the uptake of certain vitamins or minerals. If you are on a diuretic, potassium supplementation may be required.
Chronic bowel conditions may also prevent you from absorbing fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. In these cases, a multivitamin is insufficient, and targeted supplementation is required. Your pharmacist can help, and working with your doctor, get the best supplements for your unique needs.
Let your doctor and pharmacist know when you are supplementing with vitamins or herbal products. Supplements are generally safe when used as directed. However, some conditions may be aggravated or created with overuse or improper supplementation.
Did you know that supplements may interact with your medications? Sometimes the solution can be as easy as spacing vitamins away from your medications, but not always. Letting your pharmacist know what supplements you are taking can prevent problems.
When is the best time to take vitamins? For water-soluble vitamins, any time of the day works. However, with fat-soluble vitamins, taking them with a meal or milk is best. Since multivitamins and prenatal vitamins contain both water and fat-soluble vitamins, it is recommended that they be taken with a meal. Creating a plan with your pharmacist can help you take your supplements at the best times.
Your pharmacist can help navigate supplements such as vitamins, minerals or meal replacement products. Your needs and concerns are unique, let your PharmaChoice pharmacist help.
