There are 13 vitamins your body needs to grow and develop. Although many experts recommend you try to get enough vitamins through a balanced diet, many people may feel the need to take vitamins for their health. Your body can absorb and assimilate some vitamins best when you take them with other vitamins.
Calcium
Calcium, the most abundant mineral in your body, is essential for the growth and maintenance of strong bones and teeth. Since many Americans do not eat enough calcium-rich foods, some people need to take calcium supplements. Studies show that taking calcium, particularly with vitamin D supplements can help prevent bone loss during menopause, as well as in older men, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Iron
Iron is a mineral in your red blood cells and muscle cells that is necessary to transport oxygen and carbon dioxide. You may need iron supplements if you have iron deficiency anemia, which is when your red blood cells cannot carry enough oxygen due to low iron levels. Taking vitamin C helps your body absorb iron -- whether it is from food or a supplement. However, most people do not need a vitamin C tablet with their iron supplement as they get enough vitamin C from their diets.
Vitamin K
Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps your blood clot. Vitamin K deficiency in adults is rare as it is present in a variety of foods, and the bacteria in your intestines produce it. However, people with liver damage or disease, with disorders of fat malabsorption, and those taking certain anticoagulant drugs may need to take vitamin K to prevent deficiency. Vitamin E, present in liver, eggs, nuts and sunflower seeds, actually helps your body use vitamin K.
Vitamins B6 and B-12
Vitamin B6 is a vitamin that can treat heart disease and high cholesterol, while vitamin B-12 most often treats pernicious anemia, a type of anemia due to low B-12 levels. Research shows that taking B6 with B-12 and folic acid may prevent macular degeneration, which is a type of eye disease, notes MedlinePlus. Furthermore, research suggests that taking these three supplements together is likely effective for reducing hyperhomocysteinemia, a condition related to heart disease.
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