Vitamin Diet Plans

Many vitamin diet plans have been marketed, but the vitamin diet plan recommended by the U.S. Department of Agriculture allows food to provide essential vitamins. Medical conditions, or lifestyle or weight loss goals sometimes can affect your vitamin intake. Taking vitamin supplements is one option to address this. You may also find that careful management of your diet can address any deficiencies.

Vitamins Needed for Daily Nutrition

The vitamins you may need for daily nutrition depend largely on you -- your stage of life, your lifestyle and your eating habits. In general, growing adolescents and pregnant or breastfeeding women need more of all vitamins. The general diet for most adults, however, should contain at least the following: vitamin A (or beta carotene); vitamins C, D and E; and the B vitamins. Minerals such as calcium, zinc and iron are also needed for healthy nutrition.

Eating to Obtain Vitamins

The USDA recommends a diet that comes from all five food groups: whole grains, lean proteins, dairy, fruits and vegetables. Eating a variety of foods from each of these food groups helps ensure you get all necessary vitamins. The USDA also encourages reaching for nutrient-dense foods, such as avocados, beans and nuts, which are known to be extra rich in vitamins. When fresh produce isn't available, reach for canned or frozen.

Vitamin Deficiency, Diet and Supplements

Recognizing a vitamin deficiency is important in preserving a healthy body and mind. Symptoms of deficiency can vary based on the vitamin, time of year, medication and your own body chemistry. A blood test can accurately reveal what deficiencies you may have. You can also observe symptoms. Depression and/or fatigue can be a sign of a vitamin B or D deficiency. Consider adding specific vitamins to your diet plan if a deficiency is identified by your doctor or nutritionist.

Restricted Diets and Vitamin Supplements

Vitamin supplements are especially important if you are on a restricted diet and cannot access vitamins and nutrients from your food intake. Restricted diets may be due to efforts in fighting obesity, cancer or even anorexia. Depending on the severity of the restriction, you might consider adding a multivitamin or a full vitamin regimen to compensate. The University of Michigan reports that multivitamins can contribute to balancing a diet that does not naturally provide balanced nutrition.

Cautions

Always consult a physician or nutritionist when making any changes to your vitamin regimen, diet and nutrition. It is hazardous to diagnose and treat a vitamin deficiency without this consultation because of the risks involved in consuming too much of certain vitamins, according to "Harvard Health Publications." Adhere to guidelines on vitamin packaging. If vitamins are used to replace food due to an eating disorder, know that this is not a safe or healthy approach to diet and nutrition.