It is a no-brainer that you should take multivitamins daily to improve your body functions. However, do multivitamins work as advertised by pharmaceutical companies? Or are they a scam to trick people into wasting money? Let’s find out.
Are Multivitamins a Hoax?
No, multivitamins are not a hoax because they can help with nutrient deficiencies. But research also suggested that you don’t get that much benefit from taking these pills regularly, especially in preventing severe illnesses in your brain and heart.
Believe it or not, there are better ways to boost your immune system without supplements. One is a healthy diet and intentionally eating specific foods that will give you the kinds of nutrients your body needs.
Why You Shouldn’t Take a Multivitamin
Multivitamins are popular because of the enticing ads you see online and on television. But, experts say that taking these supplements is not worth it; these pills cannot help you with any diseases you have.
1. Multivitamins Are Not Strictly Regulated
You will notice that many multivitamins are currently being offered in the market. There are those marketed for reducing the risks of developing cancer, and some are for boosting overall health. But did you know that they are poorly regulated?
There needs to be a better method for approving multivitamins because many highly-budgeted manufacturers flunk the lab tests, unlike regulation medications manufactured to cure diseases.
2. Multivitamins Does Not Prolong Life Span
There is no magic in taking one pill a day. You cannot cheat your way to a longer life just because you take multivitamins. Many factors affect a human’s lifespan, and regular medical check-ups are a better way to prevent future illnesses.
You will be shocked at the survey conducted by Iowa Women’s Health. Its verdict shows a 6% increased mortality rate among their 38,000 50 to 60-year-old respondents. And these people took one multivitamin a day.
3. Multivitamins Are Incomparable to Fresh Foods
One of the reasons why multivitamins are a waste of money is they contain synthetic variants of vitamins. It means that what you’re putting in your body are not genuine vitamins.
Most of the time, when you can eat fruits, vegetables, and other fresh foods, you don’t need to buy multivitamins. You must research and look for recipes online with the nutrients your body needs.
But of course, when it comes to nutrient deficiency, like the lack of vitamin D (which many people have), you can take vitamin D supplements. You can take some of these pills, but consulting your doctor is best to avoid wasting money.
The Real Truth About Multivitamins
Let’s face it, not everyone can eat nutrient-filled meals every day. That resorting to taking multivitamins is the only way to fill the gaps is unfortunately not correct. The question “Do multivitamins work?” has been debunked by researchers already.
Supplements like Vitamins A, D, E, and K dissolve in fat and oil. What does this mean? When you put these pills inside your body in high doses, they can get toxic. Side effects will arise when you don’t regulate such intake.
Still, there are exceptions to experts’ mandate about multivitamins being a hoax – when you have certain medical conditions or restrictive diets. It is when you can’t eat a specific food but still need the nutrients found therein, so you resort to multivitamins.
Is It Recommended to Take Single-Ingredient Supplements?
As mentioned above, there are times when you might need single-ingredient supplements because of medical conditions. Below are some of the ones you can discuss with your doctor.
Iron
According to research, a lot of people suffer from anemia. The prevalent symptoms are headache, weakness, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Hence, doctors can recommend you, if you have it, take iron supplements to address it.
However, there is a warning regarding iron pills. You should only take them if you ask for a recommendation from a doctor. There will be consequences when you take too much iron.
Vitamin C
You can get this from eating fresh fruits and vegetables like oranges, bell peppers, and tomatoes. But, if you want to strengthen your immunity more, taking vitamin C supplements will not hurt you as long as you don’t overdo it.
This single-ingredient supplement is also advisable for those who smoke or are second-hand smokers who find it difficult to absorb vitamins from eating food.
Vitamin E
This vitamin can help you fight off specific infections as it is considered an antioxidant. But you don’t need to take this every day if you consistently eat foods like nuts and green vegetables like kale, spinach, and cabbage.
Suppose you have a medical condition that prevents fat absorption. In that case, you can ask your doctor about adding vitamin E to your daily prescription.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I Take Multivitamins?
You can take multivitamins if you feel like you’re not getting enough vitamins and nutrients from the food you eat. These can help fill those gaps. Plus, one multivitamin a day won’t hurt. Nonetheless, eating healthy is still the top priority.
What Are the Side Effects of Multivitamins?
A few side effects you might encounter when taking multivitamins regularly are headaches, nausea, upset stomach, and bitter or sour aftertaste in your mouth. What makes these supplements harmful is when you take them in high doses.
What Happens If I Stop Taking Multivitamins?
If you ever take a break from multivitamins, you might experience withdrawal syndrome. Because your body is used to the daily intake of the pills, it will react differently when you stop suddenly. Consult your doctor before doing it.
Do Multivitamins Work?
Researchers still need to find absolute reasons why you must take supplements to fill the gap of the nutrients you lack. Now, it is up to you and your doctor whether you need to take multivitamins.
For now, avoid buying over-the-counter supplements without asking your doctor about them. It ensures that you are not harming your body just because an advert enticed you to buy multivitamins.
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