Most of us take multivitamins to maintain our health and well-being, but are you following the right strategies to make them effective?
Learn how to make the most out of your multivitamin to optimize your health!
Use a trusted brand
Choosing a trusted brand like Herbaland that offers clean, high-quality ingredients while following ethical and sustainable practices is the most important decision you can make as a consumer! To get the most out of your supplement, always read the label to ensure your multi contains naturally sourced ingredients and zero fillers. Clean and natural ingredients provide our bodies with real nutrients they can recognize, absorb and use efficiently.
Don’t rely on supplements alone
If you want to make the most out of your vitamins, it’s important to follow a balanced diet between both healthy eating and supplementing for your dietary needs. Remember the saying “too much of a good thing, isn't always a good thing,” this is an especially important reminder when it comes to supplementing - this is because it’s possible to over-consume multivitamins! Doing so can lead to the buildup of specific vitamins and minerals, burdening the liver and even causing toxicity. Minerals including iron and calcium, along with fat soluble vitamins like A, D, E and K are the most common among these nutrients that can build up with continuous overconsumption.
What to look out for
What are you looking for in a multivitamin? Do you have any specific dietary needs? For example - if you’re a vegan, you may want to do some research and look for a supplement that includes iron and B12. Along with specific supplementation for each individual, there are basic vitamins and minerals to look out for when choosing your multivitamin. These include vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D3, vitamin E, vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, pantothenic acid, folic acid, magnesium and zinc. Herbaland Family - Always check your labels!
Supplement timing
It’s all about timing! Make sure to always read and follow the label for your specific multivitamin as this while increase its effectiveness. It is important to note that most multivitamins need to be taken with food to optimize the absorption of these precious vitamins and minerals while reducing the risk of experiencing unpleasant symptoms like nausea or vomiting.
Ward off disease
There is plenty of research that suggests taking a good-quality multivitamin daily may significantly reduce the risk of harmful diseases and even cancer -- but remember to always use your supplements in moderation!
When to avoid using multivitamins
Sometimes multivitamins may not be for everyone. If you take any medications or are being treated for cancer, there can be serious complications which may affect your treatment or pharmaceutical medication. Always do your research and speak to your healthcare provider before using new supplements, especially if you are currently dealing with any of the stated above.
Is your body’s demand getting enough supply
Physical activity may increase micronutrient needs for your body as perspiration can deplete vital nutrient stores. The nutrients we lose through sweating include calcium, potassium, sodium, magnesium and zinc. If you are new to exercise, have just increased your workout regime or have always been physically active, it could be time to add a multivitamin supplement into your routine to help maintain proper fluid balance, build and repair muscle and so much more.
Know the difference between fat and water-soluble
In simple terms, fat-soluble vitamins need to be taken with fats, whereas water-soluble vitamins need to be taken with water to increase efficacy and reduce risk of buildup. As multivitamins contain both, it is best to take your multi with a glass of water and a meal containing healthy fats like coconut oil or avocados. You can also try making a smoothie or having some fresh yogurt when taking your vitamins!
by Kali Pappas | Nutritionist