In 2008, Americans spent almost $4.7 billion on multivitamin supplements, according to the Consumer Reports Health website. Although many people believe these supplements to be beneficial, some may be interested in learning ways to cut costs when it comes to purchasing these pills. Although purchasing these supplements from dollar stores or other discount chains may ease the strain on your wallet, these supplements may not be as effective as brand-name or even store-brand supplements.
Brand Name Versus Discount
Although generic or store-brand vitamin and mineral supplements are typically comparable to their more expensive brand-name counterparts, supplements sold at dollar stores or other deep discount stores may be substandard. The amount of vitamins or minerals in these products may not reflect the amount listed on the nutritional label and some may not dissolve fast enough to be absorbed by the body, according to Consumer Reports. If cost is a factor, consider using coupons for generic store-brand versions instead. This minimizes your cost yet still provides you with the most effective supplements.
Choosing a Supplement
If you do choose to purchase a discount vitamin or mineral supplement, it is best to find a bottle that has a USP label. USP, which stands for United States Pharmocopeia, is an organization that allows vitamin and mineral supplement manufacturers to voluntarily sign up to have their products tested for quality and safety. Selecting a brand with this seal helps ensure you are getting a quality product.
Recommendations
Although your choice in discount vitamin or mineral supplements may be limited, it is still best to select a supplement geared towards your sex and age group whenever possible. Certain populations require a different amount of vitamins or minerals than others. For example, women of childbearing age often require greater amounts of iron than men or women of different age groups. If you are unsure of the amount of vitamins and minerals you need, call your doctor for advice.
Considerations
Although purchasing a discount vitamin or mineral supplement may seem like an inexpensive way to ensure you are getting an appropriate amount of nutrients, they may be an unnecessary expense. Getting vitamins and minerals through food instead of supplements is generally preferable, as supplements do not have the same beneficial interactions of nutrients of food. People who eat diets rich in vitamins and minerals have lower rates of certain diseases, but those who take large doses of supplements of the same vitamins and minerals do not necessarily experience this benefit. If you are free of health issues and already eat a well-balanced diet, ask your doctor if these supplements are necessary.
References
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Dietary Supplements
- Kiplinger; Dollar Store – Deal or No Deal; Erin Burt; February 2011
- Consumer Reports Health; Nutritional Supplements: Your Questions Answered; June 2006
- U.S. Pharmacopeia: Companies Participating in the USP Verified Program for Dietary Supplements
- Consumer Reports; Food Trumps Multivitamin Pills; September 2010
Member Comments