Is it necessary to take multivitamins all year?

Who has not taken multivitamins occasionally? We can easily find them in pharmacies, herbalists and even in supermarkets, since for their consumption it is not necessary to follow the medical advice or to acquire them from a medical prescription, being only necessary to follow the indications of the container in what refers to the number of capsules or pills to take and how. In most cases it is enough to take one capsule or a pill a day accompanied by a large glass of water or natural juice.

On the moments usually used for consumption, it is true that sales of multivitamins tend to increase especially in late summer and early fall, to stay more or less stable during the months of autumn and winter. The reason? Many people blame the change of season, and especially the arrival of cold, humidity and bad weather to a weakening and reduction of our defenses. That's right. But, Is it really necessary to take multivitamins every month of the year?.

The multivitamins are capsules or pills that stand out for being an accumulation of most of the vitamins, minerals and trace elements that our body needs every day. That is, the administration of one of these pills-especially following the manufacturer's instructions-is capable of providing between 50% and 100% of the daily quantities of certain essential nutrients, such as: vitamin A, D, C , E and B complex, in addition to minerals and trace elements such as calcium, magnesium, selenium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc ... Moreover, depending on the product, it may also include other compounds, such as coenzyme Q-10, ginseng , Royal jelly…

The truth is that today we tend to consume multivitamins indiscriminately, without hardly asking our doctor and even without knowing whether we really need them or not. The excuse or the pretext is found in the prospectus of most of these containers, where it specifies that "it can be taken all year round, without having to take breaks".

But even if there are no contraindications or side effects, taking multivitamins without needing it is a complete mistake. Why? Very simple: when we have good health, we do not suffer any kind of disorder or disease, and we follow a healthy lifestyle based on the maintenance of a varied and balanced diet, we are already contributing to our body the majority of nutrients essentials that we need every day. Therefore, the consumption of multivitamins in these cases would not be indicated or recommended.

Moreover, when we want - or need - increase defenses The best we can do is follow a healthy and varied diet, rich in nutritious and fresh foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, fish and white meats. And, in addition, complement it with the regular practice of physical exercise (if possible every day for at least 30 minutes at a time).

Only when we are sick or our doctor advises us after having passed a disease The administration and consumption of multivitamins would be advised. For example, during an infectious mononucleosis, after a flu or a cold, or when we are going through a time of stress during which our immune system tends to weaken. Also when we feel decayed or without energy; But beware, since in these cases it is necessary to rule out the possible existence of an anemia that requires higher doses of iron. This article is published for informational purposes only. You can not and should not replace the consultation with a Nutritionist. We advise you to consult your trusted Nutritionist. ThemesVitamins

Food and Vitamins and Supplements! Oh My! — Longwood Seminar (February 2024)