Taking multivitamins can be a great way to boost your health. But are they entirely necessary? According to one article in Harvard Health Publishing, most of your daily nutrients should come from a healthy, well-rounded diet.
The truth is, your standard daily multivitamin may provide essential vitamins and minerals at a relatively lower level than what the body requires.
That said, what are the multivitamin requirements for serious athletes and those who enjoy a regular sweat sesh?
Do Athletes Need Multivitamins?
Like any regular person, the core of our vitamins and minerals should come from a nutrient-rich diet. This is usually all that is needed for healthy function.
However, according to a 2023 article in Sports, multivitamins can help athletes with nutritional deficiencies. Apart from this, there are very few reasons why athletes should take multivitamins.
Let’s address some common multivitamin myths and see how they hold up to the science.
Common Multivitamin Myths
Myth 1: Multivitamins Prevent Heart Disease
Fact: According to a 2023 article in The Journal of Nutrition, while some believe multivitamins can help prevent heart disease, research doesn’t conclusively report this.
Myth 2: Multivitamins Can Reduce the Risk of Cancer
Fact: Similar to the heart disease claim, the evidence regarding multivitamin use and cancer is also mixed. According to a 2009 article in The Archives of Internal Medicine, some studies found conclusions ranging from an increased risk of cancer, a 31% lower risk of cancer in men, and no change in women.
Myth 3: Multivitamins Can Improve Brain Function and Memory
Fact: Several smaller studies, like a 2012 article in Physiology & Behavior, suggest that certain multivitamins may improve memory in older adults.
Myth 4: Multivitamins Can Improve Eye Health
Fact: One study in the Cochrane Database of Sytematic Reviews found that antioxidant multivitamins may slow the progression of blindness brought on by aging. Further evidence suggests that some multivitamins may reduce your risk of developing cataracts.
Who Should Take Multivitamins?
While multivitamins are not usually necessary with the right diet, there are some individuals who may benefit from taking them. However, multivitamins may not benefit everyone and may harm some, so its best to consult with your physician before starting any supplement journey.
Older Adults
According to a study in the Annual Review of Nutrition, multivitamins may benefit older adults. Vitamin B12 absorption can decrease with age. Older adults may also need more calcium and vitamin D.
Vegans and Vegetarians
According to a study in Nutrition Reviews, Vegans and Vegetarians may also benefit from multivitamin supplementation. This is because essentials like vitamin B12 are primarily found in animal products. They may also lack calcium, zinc, iron, vitamin D, and omega 3 fatty acids.
Ultimate Tip
Explore these Ultimate Nutrition supplements for all your daily needs.
1. Super Vitamin B Complex
Helps replenish vitamin B lost to an active lifestyle.*
2. Ultimate Nutrition Vitamin D
Supports bones, teeth, and immune system while helping maintain healthy muscles.*
3. Calcium Plus
Helps strengthen bones and teeth.*
4. Ultimate Nutrition Zinc
Bolster skin, hair, and digestive health, while optimizing enzyme functions, and ensuring proper mineral absorption.*
5. Ultimate Nutrition Omega 3
Rich in EPA & DHA fatty acids that bolster heart, brain, skin, eyes & joint health.*
Multi Ways to Supplement
At Ultimate Nutrition, we always promote a healthy diet and nutrition plan overall, but we also know the power of proper supplementation. That’s why we pride ourselves in delivering pure and clean supplements that help you with all your lifestyle gains in and out of the gym.
Multivitamins can boost your health if you’re an older adult, vegan, vegetarian, or an athlete with a deficiency where extra support may be needed.
As always, consult your doctor before beginning any new exercise, diet, or supplement program. We want you to achieve your goals safely and sustainably.
Don’t forget to visit the Ultimate Nutrition Blog for all your fitness and lifestyle needs.
The information provided in our articles are meant for informational and educational purposes exclusively and should not be considered as medical advice. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional before starting a new nutritional product and/or making significant changes to your diet and/or starting a new exercise regime. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, and/or prevent disease.
