Finding out what vitamins you should be taking may require doing some homework. Choosing a multivitamin may seem like the easiest solution, but the truth is that you may be missing out on some essential nutrients. According to iVillage, it's best to choose vitamin supplements made by a reputable company, such as GNC or Solgar. Opt for something sold at pharmacies or vitamin shops and avoid buying vitamins at discount stores or supermarkets.
Step 1
Stick to the basic vitamins if you don't know what to take. According to "Shape" magazine, you should be taking A, C, niacin, folic acid and vitamins D and K. If choosing a multivitamin, make sure it gives you at least 100 percent of the Recommended Dietary Allowance, or RDA, of the vitamin components. Check that you're getting 100 percent of your required copper and zinc requirements as well. Look at the label; the percentages should be listed there.
Step 2
Talk to your doctor about taking iron supplements. According to the National Institutes of Health, or NIH, women with heavy periods, people with kidney failure and strict vegetarians are more likely to suffer from iron deficiencies. If you're experiencing symptoms such as extreme fatigue, decreased immune function and problems concentrating, you may be suffering from iron-deficiency anemia. If you are, you may need something stronger than what's found in a multivitamin.
Step 3
Take calcium supplements if you don't eat enough dairy products. While most multivitamins have some calcium in them, it's usually not enough to protect you from osteoporosis unless you eat at least four servings of dairy products every day.
Step 4
Make a list of any symptoms you have. Problems such as weakness, cracked lips, frequent headaches or nausea, weight loss and skin rashes can all indicate a vitamin deficiency. Compare your symptoms to what each vitamin provides. For example, teeth and gum problems can be caused by a vitamin C deficiency, according to iHealth. Try adding vitamin C supplements to your diet and see if the problem goes away.
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