Health supplement products are a big business. While these products supply beneficial nutrients to help ward off deficiencies, some may contain excess calories and additives. Liquid multivitamin drinks provide an alternative to vitamin pills and capsules. While solid pills are the traditional form of multivitamin supplements, some individuals must consume liquid drink supplements due to certain dietary restrictions and digestive conditions.
Vitamin Requirements
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration provides guidelines that outline the minimum requirements for numerous vitamins and minerals. Known as the recommended dietary allowances, these guidelines can help individuals meet their nutritional requirements through food sources. However, poor dietary habits and certain health conditions can result in an inadequate intake of nutrients. Both liquid supplements and multivitamin pills can bridge the gap and help ensure optimal health.
Supplementation
A daily multivitamin supplement is a good way to ensure that you provide your body with the nutrients it needs to function properly. Multivitamin supplements may help guard against birth defects, cardiovascular diseases, Alzheimer's disease and certain types of cancer.
Liquid Supplement Drinks
Although vitamin pills are the most common form of supplementation, liquid supplement drinks can be easier and more enjoyable for some individuals to consume. Occasionally, liquid supplement drinks are medically necessary for individuals with digestive disorders, such as Crohn's disease, and for patients recovering from surgery, including gastric bypass surgery. Depending on the product, some liquid multivitamin drinks contain fiber and antioxidants, increasing the nutritional level of the drink. Others may contain added sugar and artificial flavorings.
Considerations
Although a multivitamin supplement can provide a measure of nutritional help, it is not a substitute for a healthy diet. For healthy individuals, choosing between liquid vitamin supplements and multivitamins in pill form is usually a matter of personal preference. While vitamin drinks may be more expensive, they can help quench your thirst and satisfy your desire for flavor. The liquid forms are often easier to swallow, especially for older adults.
The most important factor in choosing a supplement is considering the amount of vitamins and minerals it contains. Consuming a drink that includes close to 100 percent of the daily-recommended amounts of most vitamins and minerals will help you avoid nutritional deficiencies.
References
- "Linus Pauling Institute Research Report"; What to Look for in a Multivitamin Supplement; Jane Higdon; November 2003
- North Dakota State University: Q & A About Dietary Supplements; July Garden-Robinson; March 1998
- MayoClinic.com: Gastric Bypass Diet
- MayoClinic.com: Nutrition and Healthy Eating; Vitamin Water
- Harvard School of Public Health: Vitamins
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