Experts agree that it's best to obtain your vitamins and minerals through a healthy diet. But for many people, that's not always possible. That's when a multivitamin-mineral supplement can be helpful. Supplements can add needed "insurance" regarding the nutrients you consume, helping fill in any nutrition gaps in your diet. But if you choose to take vitamin or mineral supplements, it's important to do so wisely. Certain vitamins and minerals work together for best results, while others interfere with one another. In addition, mega-doses of some nutrients can be dangerous. Keep some basic guidelines regarding vitamin-mineral supplements in mind for optimal health and safety, and remember that they should not be introduced into your diet without first consulting your doctor.
Step 1
Take calcium in combination with vitamin D. According to Brown University, calcium cannot be optimally absorbed without the presence of vitamin D. Therefore, for best results, look for a calcium supplement that also includes vitamin D.
Step 2
Take vitamin A along with the mineral zinc, advises the University of Maryland Medical Center. These nutrients constitute another beneficial combination. Zinc allows your body to utilize vitamin A appropriately, most notably to prevent night-blindness. Check to make sure your multivitamin supplement includes both substances for best results.
Step 3
Use caution when adding extra supplements to your diet, especially if you already take a general multivitamin. MayoClinic.com notes that mega-doses of certain nutrients can be problematic. Therefore, it's important to ask your doctor about the safety of any additional supplements you may wish to take. Excessively large doses of certain vitamins and minerals can even be toxic, so always consult your doctor about supplement dosing instructions.
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