education-center 16 Reasons Why You...

16 Reasons Why You Should Be Taking a Multivitamin Every Day

Author: Jimmy dishanni
Updated: January 17, 2025 Published: January 09, 2025
A representing reasons for taking a multivitamin, such as dietary restrictions, skipped meals, medical conditions, and nutrient deficiencies, highlighting the importance of daily supplementation.

Keeping up with a perfectly balanced diet can feel like a constant challenge. Between hectic schedules, dietary restrictions, the occasional skipped meal, or specific life stages like pregnancy or aging, it’s easy to fall short on essential vitamins and minerals. Nutrient deficiencies caused by medical conditions or poor absorption can further complicate matters. That’s where multivitamins come in—a beneficial and convenient way to bridge nutritional gaps, address unique needs, and support your overall health.

Multivitamins are a favorite among supplement users, reaching an all time high, 77% of Americans taking dietary supplements and 58% opting for multivitamins, according to the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN). Multivitamins supplements combine critical nutrients like B vitamins for energy, Viitamin C for immune health, and Calcium and Vitamin D for strong bones, offering a simple yet effective way to ensure your body gets what it needs. 

But not all multivitamins are created equal. The way they’re manufactured can make a significant difference in how well your body absorbs the nutrients. Options like cold-processed and raw powdered multivitamins preserve the integrity of vitamins and minerals, ensuring maximum potency and bioavailability. High-quality formulations yield superior results by eliminating unnecessary additives, fillers, and artificial ingredients that can dilute potency or cause unwanted side effects. Choosing a reputable brand that emphasizes premium ingredients, bioavailability, and precise manufacturing processes ensures you get the maximum benefit from your multivitamin.

Think of multivitamins as your nutritional backup plan, filling in the gaps when life gets busy. Whether you’re looking to boost energy, strengthen immunity, or support your overall well-being, the right multivitamin can help you stay on track.

While experts at Johns Hopkins have questioned the need for multivitamins, recent research paints a much more nuanced picture.

Let’s explore the reasons why these supplements are worth making a part of your daily routine.

What Are Multivitamins?

A multivitamin alongside illustrations of essential nutrients, representing the comprehensive support they provide with vitamins like A, D, E, and K.

Multivitamins are like a toolkit for your body, packed with a mix of essential nutrients that support various aspects of health. They typically include a range of vitamins and minerals, often featuring fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K, which play critical roles in everything from immune function to bone health. These supplements can come in various formats, including capsules, gummies, powders, and liquids, catering to different preferences and lifestyles.

What sets multivitamins apart is their versatility. Some formulas stick to the basics—just vitamins and minerals—while others include additional components like amino acids, herbal extracts, or healthy fats. Chewable and gummy varieties often include sweeteners to make them more palatable, especially for kids.

Since everyone’s nutritional needs are unique, multivitamins are tailored to specific demographics. There are formulas designed for children, adults, seniors, and even specialized groups like pregnant women or those following vegetarian or vegan diets. The good news - you will always find a multivitamin to suit your needs.

It's important to remember that not all multivitamins are the same; the nutrient composition and quality can differ greatly between different products. To ensure you’re choosing the right option, consider consulting with a healthcare professional or dietitian who can help identify the supplements that align with your personal health goals.

While some people take multivitamins daily, others prefer a less frequent approach. The key is finding a routine that works for you and provides the nutrients your body needs to thrive.

TAILOR your multivitamin routine to fit your lifestyle and unique health needs.

DISCOVER YOUR FORMULA

Who May Benefit from Taking a Multivitamin?

Certain groups of people may find multivitamin supplementation particularly beneficial. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, for instance, have increased nutritional needs to support both their health and their baby’s development. Vegetarians and vegans might struggle to get enough Vitamin B12 and Iron from plant-based foods alone. Individuals with restrictive diets, such as those with gluten or lactose intolerance, may also miss out on key nutrients. As noted by Julie Corliss, Executive Editor of the Harvard Heart Letter, people with nutrient deficiencies caused by medical conditions like celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, or those who have undergone weight-loss surgeries often struggle with nutrient absorption, making multivitamins an important tool to address these deficiencies. 

Similarly, those who do not eat a balanced diet or regularly miss out on essential nutrients may benefit from supplementation. Lastly, older adults may benefit from multivitamins to help counteract the natural decline in nutrient absorption that comes with aging.

"To learn more about who can benefit rom taking a multivitamin, read our article, "Who May Benefit from Taking a Multivitamin?"

Key Nutrients Found in Some Multivitamins

High-quality multivitamins are designed to provide essential nutrients that support overall health and well-being. While the specific composition can vary between brands, many of the best formulations include:

  • Vitamins: Key nutrients like Vitamin A for vision and immunity, Vitamin C for antioxidant support and collagen synthesis, and Vitamin E to protect cells from oxidative stress. High-potency B vitamins—such as B6, B12, and Pantothenic Acid—are essential for energy production, metabolism, and nervous system health.
  • Minerals: Important minerals such as Magnesium, Zinc, Iodine, and Selenium support functions like bone health, immunity, and thyroid balance. Trace elements like Copper, Manganese, and Molybdenum are often included to aid in enzymatic and metabolic processes.
  • Amino Acids and Enzymes: Some premium multivitamins also feature essential amino acids to aid in muscle recovery and overall vitality, as well as enzyme blends to promote better digestion and nutrient absorption.
  • Additional Benefits: Other beneficial additions can include Citrus Bioflavonoids for antioxidant activity, Inositol for cellular health, and prebiotic fibers for gut support.

These nutrient-rich formulas ensure your body receives the support it needs for daily activities, recovery, and long-term wellness. Multivitamins that prioritize bioavailability—such as those in powdered formats—offer enhanced absorption and convenience for individuals seeking maximum benefits.

These comprehensive nutrient blends not only support foundational health but also address specific needs that arise from everyday challenges. Let’s explore how multivitamins can help fill gaps in your diet and enhance your overall well-being.

1. Filling Nutritional Gaps

A variety of fresh foods paired with a multivitamin bottle, representing how multivitamins help fill nutritional gaps caused by dietary restrictions or health conditions.

Even with a well-balanced diet, nutritional gaps can arise due to dietary restrictions, reduced appetite, or underlying health conditions. Multivitamins provide a reliable solution, helping to fill these gaps and ensuring your body receives the essential vitamins and minerals it needs to function at its best.

(Source: Fantacone et al. 2020).

For individuals with specific dietary preferences, such as vegans or vegetarians, or those managing food allergies, multivitamins provide the nutrients that may be missing from limited food choices. Similarly, those experiencing a reduced appetite due to illness, aging, or side effects of medication can benefit from the additional support multivitamins offer. Digestive gut issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome or celiac disease, can hinder nutrient absorption and the body's ability to retain nutrients, making supplementation an effective way to maintain healthy levels.

Even a busy lifestyle can lead to shortcuts in meal preparation, resulting in less-than-ideal nutrient intake. Multivitamins make it easier to stay on track. While they aren’t a replacement for whole foods, they’re a valuable complement to ensure your body gets what it needs when life doesn’t go as planned. Always consult with a healthcare provider to find the right multivitamin for your needs.

To learn more about how multivitamins help fill nutritional gaps, read our article, "How Multivitamins Help Fill Nutritional Gaps?"

2. Supporting Bone Health

Keeping your bones strong and healthy is vital for staying active and avoiding fractures as you age. Calcium and vitamin D are the cornerstone nutrients for bone health—calcium builds and maintains bone tissue, while Vitamin D ensures your body absorbs it effectively (Source: Adams et al. 2021). As Heidi Godman, Executive Editor of the Harvard Health Letter, explains, insufficient Calcium in the bloodstream leads the body to draw Calcium from bones, weakening them over time. Ensuring an adequate intake of these nutrients helps maintain bone strength and prevent depletion.

Multivitamins with these nutrients can help fill gaps in your diet and provide your body with the resources it needs to keep your bones resilient. Regular weight-bearing exercises like walking or strength training further support bone health, while avoiding harmful habits such as smoking or excessive alcohol intake protects against bone damage (Source: Heaney, 2002).

To learn more about how multivitamins keeping your bones strong and healthy, read our article, "How Do Multivitamins Support Bone Health?"

SUPPORT your bone health with essential nutrients for strength and vitality.

STAY ACTIVE. STAY STRONG

3. Boosting Eye Health

An image of an eye with a vibrant glow, accompanied by a representation of Vitamin A, emphasizing its role in supporting retina function and improving vision in low-light conditions.

Good vision plays a crucial role in your overall quality of life, and certain nutrients are essential for maintaining eye health. Vitamin A is particularly important, supporting the function of the retina, the light-sensitive part of the eye, and helping you see better in low-light conditions. It also contributes to reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss as you age.

As highlighted by Heidi Godman, Executive Editor of the Harvard Health Letter, the AREDS2 study showed that replacing beta carotene with lutein and zeaxanthin in eye supplements reduced the risk of AMD progression without increasing the risk of lung cancer, making these nutrients a safer and more effective option for protecting long-term vision health.

Other nutrients, like Omega-3 fatty acids, are beneficial for the eyes, especially for maintaining the health of retinal cell membranes and reducing the risk of dry eye syndrome Casaroli-Marano, 2024). Antioxidants such as Vitamins C and E further protect the eyes from oxidative damage that can lead to cataracts and AMD.

Including these nutrients in your daily routine through diet or multivitamins is a proactive way to support long-term vision health. Whether it’s through foods like carrots, citrus fruits, and fatty fish, or the convenience of a high-quality supplement, giving your eyes the nutrients they need is a smart step toward maintaining sharp and healthy vision.

Good vision plays a crucial role in your overall quality of life, and certain nutrients are essential for maintaining eye health. Vitamin A is particularly important, supporting the function of the retina, the light-sensitive part of the eye, and helping you see better in low-light conditions. It also contributes to reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss as you age.

Other nutrients, like Omega-3 fatty acids, are beneficial for the eyes, especially for maintaining the health of retinal cell membranes and reducing the risk of dry eye syndrome (Source: Casaroli-Marano, 2024). Antioxidants such as vitamins C and E further protect the eyes from oxidative damage that can lead to cataracts and AMD.

Including these nutrients in your daily routine through diet or multivitamins is a proactive way to support long-term vision health. Whether it’s through foods like carrots, citrus fruits, and fatty fish, or the convenience of a high-quality supplement, giving your eyes the nutrients they need is a smart step toward maintaining sharp and healthy vision.

To learn more about how multivitamins help maintain sharp eyes and healthy vision, read our article, "How Do Multivitamins Help Eye Health?"

4. Enhancing Energy Levels

B vitamins are vital for converting the food you eat into energy your body can use. Acting as coenzymes, they drive the metabolic processes that break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, turning them into fuel for your cells.

Beyond energy production, B vitamins support the nervous system, ensuring smooth communication between your brain and body. Key contributors include B1 for carbohydrate metabolism, B2 for fat and protein breakdown, and B12 for red blood cell formation, which carries oxygen to your cells for sustained energy.

Maintaining proper B vitamin levels through diet or a high-quality multivitamin can help keep fatigue at bay and your energy levels steady throughout the day (Source: Depeint et al., 2006).

To learn more about how multivitamins can increase energy levels, read our article, "How Do Multivitamins Increase Energy Levels?"

BOOST your energy naturally with multivitamins that fuel your body and mind.

POWER UP YOUR DAY

5. Improving Muscle Strength

A depiction of strong, active muscles alongside a symbol for Vitamin D, highlighting its role in muscle regeneration, protein synthesis, and recovery after physical activity.

Vitamin D is a key nutrient for maintaining muscle strength and promoting recovery. It supports muscle regeneration by aiding protein synthesis and reducing inflammation, helping your body repair and rebuild after physical activity (Source: Montenegro et al., 2019). Additionally, Vitamin D plays a role in regulating calcium levels, which are essential for proper muscle contraction and overall function. This ensures your muscles work efficiently, enhancing strength, endurance, and coordination. Whether you're staying active or aiming to prevent muscle decline with age, ensuring adequate Vitamin D through sunlight, diet, or supplementation helps keep your muscles strong and ready for any challenge.

To learn more about how to make your muscles strong and healthy with multivitamins, read our article, "How Do Multivitamins Help Improve Muscle Strength?"

6. Supporting Brain Health and Memory

Maintaining mental clarity and sharpness relies on the right nutrients working together to support your brain’s complex functions. B vitamins are essential for neurotransmitter production and DNA repair, which play key roles in enhancing focus and memory. Vitamin D contributes to cognitive health by regulating calcium levels and reducing inflammation, both of which are critical for efficient brain function. Antioxidants, like those found in fruits and vegetables, protect brain cells from damage caused by free radicals, reducing the risk of cognitive decline over time. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish and seeds, are another powerhouse nutrient, helping to improve memory and mood while supporting overall brain structure.

Research further supports the brain-boosting potential of multivitamins. JoAnn Manson, chief of Brigham’s Division of Preventive Medicine and co-leader of the COSMOS-Web study, highlights that randomized trials have shown multivitamins can slow memory loss and cognitive aging, providing benefits equivalent to 3.1 years of age-related decline. She notes, “A multivitamin a day helps keep memory loss at bay,” emphasizing the significance of combining multiple micronutrients for optimal brain health.

When combined with a nutrient-rich diet, regular physical activity, and mentally stimulating activities like puzzles or learning new skills, these nutrients provide the foundation for long-term brain health and function. Adding a high-quality multivitamin that includes these key nutrients can further support brain health and cognitive resilience as you age. (Source: Ciumărnean et al., 2024).

To learn more about how do multivitamins support the brain’s complex functions, read our article, "How Do Multivitamins Support Brain Health and Memory?"

7. Strengthening Immunity

An illustration of Vitamin C and Zinc supplements alongside a shield symbolizing a strong immune system, highlighting their role in protecting against illnesses and supporting white blood cells.

Your immune system relies on key nutrients like Vitamin C and Zinc to stay strong and defend against illnesses. Vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting immune cells from free radical damage while supporting the production and activity of white blood cells, your body’s first line of defense against infections. Zinc is equally important, playing a critical role in the development and function of immune cells. It helps immune cells communicate effectively and boosts antibody production, giving your body the tools it needs to neutralize harmful pathogens.

Research has demonstrated that deficiencies in Vitamin C and Zinc impair immune system function, increasing vulnerability to infections and complicating recovery (Source: Altomare et al., 2024). Vitamin C enhances the differentiation and proliferation of B and T cells, while Zinc contributes to rapid immune responses by reducing oxidative stress and supporting T cell proliferation. Together, these nutrients bolster immune defenses and are vital in combating infections.

While these nutrients can be obtained through foods like citrus fruits, bell peppers, nuts, and whole grains, a high-quality multivitamin ensures consistent levels of Vitamin C and Zinc, especially during times when your immune system needs extra support. Combined with healthy habits like regular sleep, exercise, and stress management, these nutrients help keep your body resilient and ready to fight off infections.

To learn more about how multivitamins strengthen your immunity, read our article, "How Do Multivitamins Strengthen Immunity?"

STRENGTHEN your immunity with essential nutrients that protect and support.

FORTIFY YOUR DEFENSES

8. Promoting Heart Health

Cardiovascular health depends on keeping certain risk factors in check, and vitamins B6, B12, and folic acid play a key role in this process. These B vitamins help regulate homocysteine, an amino acid that, at elevated levels, can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of heart disease. By converting homocysteine into less harmful compounds, they help protect your heart and reduce the likelihood of cardiovascular complications. Adequate intake of these vitamins supports healthy blood vessels and helps lower the risk of conditions like atherosclerosis, where plaque builds up in the arteries. Research shows that deficiencies in Vitamin B12 are particularly associated with elevated homocysteine levels and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, highlighting the protective role of these nutrients in maintaining cardiovascular health (Source: Tappia, P. S., & Dhalla, N. S. 2024)

You can find these nutrients in foods like poultry, fish, leafy greens, beans, and dairy. For those who need additional support, a multivitamin containing these essential B vitamins is a convenient way to ensure consistent intake. Supporting heart health isn’t just about diet—it’s a combination of proper nutrition, regular exercise, and healthy lifestyle choices. Together, these habits can help keep your heart strong and resilient over time.

To learn more about how multivitamins support heart health over time, read our article, "How Do Multivitamins Promote Heart Health?"

9. Encouraging Healthy Skin, Hair, and Nails

An illustration of radiant skin, shiny hair, and strong nails, accompanied by symbols for Biotin, Vitamins A, C, and E, highlighting their roles in promoting overall vitality and resilience.

A vibrant appearance starts from within, and key vitamins like Biotin, A, C, and E play essential roles in maintaining healthy skin, strong hair, and resilient nails. Biotin supports the production of keratin, the protein that forms the foundation of these tissues. A deficiency can lead to brittle nails, thinning hair, or dry skin, making this nutrient essential for overall vitality. Vitamin A promotes skin cell repair, elasticity, and moisture, while also contributing to healthy hair and nail growth.

Vitamin C’s role in collagen production makes it vital for maintaining skin’s firmness and youthful appearance. As an antioxidant, it protects against damage from free radicals and UV exposure. Vitamin E further enhances skin hydration and elasticity, while also boosting blood circulation to promote healthier hair and nails.

Including these nutrients in your diet or through a high-quality multivitamin can help ensure your skin, hair, and nails stay strong and radiant. Pairing good nutrition with hydration and protective skincare habits can further enhance their natural beauty. (Source: Trüeb, R. M. 2020).

To learn more about how multivitamins promote radiant skin, shiny hair, and strong nails, read our article, "How Do Multivitamins Encourage Healthy Skin, Hair, and Nails?"

10. Reducing Stress Impact

Stress takes a toll on the body, depleting essential nutrients like Magnesium and B vitamins that are critical for maintaining balance and well-being. Magnesium helps regulate muscle relaxation, nerve function, and energy production, all of which can be disrupted during stressful times. B vitamins support a healthy nervous system, enhance cognitive function, and help stabilize mood, making them essential for managing stress effectively.

Replenishing these nutrients through diet or supplementation can counteract the effects of stress. Magnesium is found in leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains, while B vitamins are abundant in meat, eggs, dairy, and fortified cereals. A high-quality multivitamin ensures consistent intake of these nutrients, especially during periods of heightened stress.

Combined with stress management techniques like exercise, mindfulness, and proper sleep, these nutrients help fortify your body against the challenges of daily life, keeping you resilient and balanced. (Source: Cuciureanu, M. D., & Vink, R. (n.d.).

To learn more about how multivitamins help manage stress effectively, read our article, "How Do Multivitamins Help Reduce the Impact of Stress?"

MANAGE stress with key nutrients that restore balance and support your well-being.

FIND YOUR CALM

11. Supporting Digestive Health

A representation of a healthy digestive system, highlighting the benefits of powdered multivitamins with quick-dissolving formulas that are gentler on the stomach compared to pills or capsules.

A healthy digestive system is essential for nutrient absorption and overall well-being. While some supplements include probiotics or digestive enzymes, the design of powdered multivitamins offers its own digestive advantages. These formulas dissolve quickly in liquids, making them gentler on the stomach compared to traditional pills or capsules. This faster absorption reduces the likelihood of digestive discomfort, helping your body efficiently utilize the nutrients provided.

But even powders alone can provide benefits for the gut. Their liquid form supports smoother digestion and allows the nutrients to be absorbed more effectively, which can contribute to a healthier gut environment over time. Powdered multivitamins are also easy to incorporate into your daily routine, whether mixed with water, juice, or a smoothie. This convenience not only supports consistent nutrient intake but also helps maintain hydration—an important factor in digestive health. For individuals looking for a simple, effective way to support their gut, powdered vitamins provide a practical and stomach-friendly option.

To learn more about how do multivitamins enhance digestive and gut health, read our article, "How Do Multivitamins Support Digestive Health?"

12. Improving Recovery Post-Exercise

Recovering after physical activity is essential for maintaining strength and preventing injuries, and certain nutrients play a vital role in this process. Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant, helps protect muscle cells from damage caused by free radicals during exercise. It also supports collagen synthesis, a key component in repairing muscle tissue. Magnesium contributes to muscle contraction and relaxation, regulates energy production, and helps maintain electrolyte balance, all of which are essential for recovery. Additionally, antioxidants like Vitamin C and minerals such as Magnesium are integral in managing oxidative stress, further supporting effective recovery (Source: Wang, Meng, & Su, 2024). 

Powdered multivitamins provide a convenient way to incorporate these recovery-supporting nutrients into your routine. Their fast-dissolving format ensures quicker absorption, allowing your body to start the repair process sooner. Mixing them with water or a smoothie not only provides hydration—critical for muscle recovery—but also enhances post-workout replenishment. Pairing these nutrients with proper hydration, quality sleep, and light activity on rest days can further improve recovery, helping you bounce back stronger and ready for your next workout.

To learn more about how multivitamins help support your needs to recover quickly, read our article, "How Do Multivitamins Improve Post-Exercise Recovery?"

13. Balancing Nutritional Needs for Special Diets

An assortment of plant-based foods alongside a vitamin B12 supplement, illustrating how special diets like veganism may require additional nutrients to fill dietary gaps.

Special diets, like vegan and vegetarian lifestyles, offer numerous health and ethical benefits but may leave gaps in essential nutrients. For example, Vitamin B12, which is primarily found in animal products, is often missing in vegan diets. A deficiency in B12 can lead to fatigue, anemia, and nerve issues, making it a critical nutrient to supplement. Other nutrients, such as iron, zinc, and calcium, can also be harder to obtain or absorb from plant-based sources. Iron from plants (non-heme iron) is less readily absorbed than the heme iron found in animal products, while Zinc and Calcium absorption may be inhibited by compounds in plant foods.

The role of supplementation is crucial for individuals following vegan diets, as they are often deficient in key nutrients like vitamin B12, Iron, Calcium, and Zinc, which are harder to obtain or absorb from plant-based sources. Fortified foods and high-quality multivitamins are recommended to prevent deficiencies and ensure balanced nutrition (Source: Marrone et al., 2021). Combined with a varied diet that includes fortified foods and nutrient-rich plants, multivitamins make balancing your nutritional needs simpler and more effective.

To learn more about how multivitamins help your body receive optimal nutrition for health, read our article, "How Do Multivitamins Help Balance Nutritional Needs for Special Diets?"

BRIDGE the gaps in your diet with essential nutrients tailored for special lifestyles.

BALANCE YOUR NUTRITION

14. Reducing the Risk of Chronic Diseases, Including Cancer

Your diet and nutrient intake play a crucial role in protecting your body against chronic diseases, including cancer. Oxidative stress—a process where free radicals damage cells—contributes to the development of these conditions. Antioxidants like Vitamins C and E, found in many multivitamins, help neutralize free radicals, reducing cellular damage and promoting overall health.

Minerals such as Selenium and Zinc also enhance your body’s defense mechanisms by supporting antioxidant enzymes that combat oxidative stress. Selenium, for example, is linked to reduced oxidative damage and can be found in foods like Brazil nuts and seafood, while Zinc aids in maintaining cellular integrity. (Source: Bjørklund et al., 2022)

While multivitamins can help ensure consistent intake of these critical nutrients, pairing them with a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole foods maximizes their protective benefits. This proactive approach supports your body’s ability to resist chronic conditions and maintain long-term health.

To learn more about how multivitamins protect your body against chronic diseases, read our article, "How Do Multivitamins Help Reduce the Risk of Chronic Diseases, Including Cancer?"

15. Improved Mood

A serene image of a sad and smiling, paired with symbols for B vitamins and Magnesium, emphasizing their role in supporting neurotransmitter production and balanced mood.

Your mood is closely tied to the nutrients your body receives, and B vitamins and Magnesium are key players in keeping it balanced. B vitamins, such as B6, B9 (Folate), and B12, are critical for producing neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which directly influence mood, sleep, and appetite. Without adequate levels of these vitamins, feelings of fatigue, irritability, or low mood can arise.

Magnesium complements this process by helping regulate the body’s stress response. It supports relaxation, reduces anxiety, and promotes emotional stability, making it a vital nutrient for overall mental well-being. Together, these nutrients create a foundation for improved mood and better stress management.

While a balanced diet can provide these nutrients, supplementing with a high-quality multivitamin ensures you maintain consistent levels, particularly during periods of heightened stress or dietary gaps. For those seeking to enhance their emotional health, the right nutritional support can make a noticeable difference. (Source: Johnstone et al., 2020).

To learn more about how multivitamins maintain optimal levels of mood-boosting nutrients, read our article, "How Do Multivitamins Improve Mood?"

NURTURE your mood with nutrients that promote calm and emotional balance.

FIND YOUR BALANCE

16. Pregnancy and Birth Outcomes

Prenatal vitamins are essential for supporting both maternal health and fetal development during pregnancy (Source: Cetin et al., 2016). These specialized supplements provide critical nutrients that are often difficult to obtain in sufficient quantities through diet alone, helping to ensure a healthy pregnancy and reducing the risk of complications.

Folic acid, one of the most important nutrients in prenatal vitamins, plays a key role in preventing neural tube defects, serious conditions affecting the baby’s brain and spinal cord. Iron supports the increased blood volume required during pregnancy, reducing the risk of anemia, while calcium and Vitamin D work together to build strong bones and teeth for the growing baby.

Prenatal vitamins also often include iodine, essential for brain development and thyroid function, and DHA, an Omega-3 fatty acid that supports the development of the baby’s brain and eyes. These nutrients collectively contribute to healthy fetal growth, improved maternal well-being, and better birth outcomes.

Women planning for pregnancy are advised to start taking prenatal vitamins at least three months before conception to ensure optimal nutrient levels during the early stages of fetal development. Paired with a balanced diet rich in whole foods, prenatal vitamins provide a strong foundation for a healthy pregnancy.

To learn more about how multivitamins promote optimal outcomes for both mother and baby, read our article, "How Do Multivitamins Support Pregnancy and Birth Outcomes?"

How to Choose the Right Multivitamin for You

Maintaining a perfectly balanced diet can be challenging in today’s busy world. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only one in ten Americans meets the daily recommendations for fruit and vegetable intake, and many fall short on whole grains and key nutrients like Vitamin D, Calcium, and Potassium. These nutritional gaps can lead to serious health risks over time, underscoring the importance of proactive solutions like multivitamins.

Multivitamins are not a substitute for a healthy diet, but they serve as an effective complement, helping to bridge the gap when dietary intake falls short. Nutritional deficiencies can affect energy levels, immunity, bone health, and even cognitive function, making multivitamins a valuable tool for overall well-being. High-quality formulations, especially those designed to maximize bioavailability, ensure your body absorbs essential nutrients effectively.

Whether you’re seeking to enhance your immune defenses, support bone strength, improve energy levels, or promote healthy aging, multivitamins offer targeted support. They’re especially beneficial for individuals with specific needs, such as pregnant women, vegans, or those managing health conditions that impair nutrient absorption.

By combining multivitamins with a balanced diet rich in whole, nutrient-dense foods, you create a strong foundation for long-term health. However, it’s important to choose supplements from reputable brands and consult with a healthcare provider to ensure they align with your unique nutritional needs.

In today’s fast-paced world, where convenience often trumps nutrition, multivitamins provide a simple yet powerful way to support your body’s needs. They act as your nutritional safety net, filling in gaps and helping you thrive, no matter the challenges life throws your way.

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  13. Cuciureanu, M. D., & Vink, R. (n.d.). Magnesium in the Central Nervous System. [Internet]. National Center for Biotechnology Information. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507250/
  14. Wang, L., Meng, Q., & Su, C.-H. (2024). From Food Supplements to Functional Foods: Emerging Perspectives on Post-Exercise Recovery Nutrition. Nutrients, 16(23), 4081. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16234081 Available at: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/16/23/4081
  15. Marrone, G., Guerriero, C., Palazzetti, D., Lido, P., & Marolla, G. (2021). Vegan diet health benefits in metabolic syndrome. Nutrients, 13(3), 817. DOI:10.3390/nu13030817 - Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33801269/
  16. Corliss J. Why are you taking a multivitamin? For most Americans, a daily multivitamin is an unnecessary habit. Harvard Heart Letter. July 27, 2022. Accessed January 8, 2025. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/why-are-you-taking-a-multivitamin-202207262787
  17. Bjørklund, G., Shanaida, M., Lysiuk, R., Antonyak, H., Klishch, I., Shanaida, V., & Peana, M. (2022). Selenium: An Antioxidant with a Critical Role in Anti-Aging. Molecules, 27(19), 6613. DOI: 10.3390/molecules27196613. Available from: https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/27/19/6613
  18. Johnstone, J. M., Hughes, A., Goldenberg, J. Z., & Romijn, A. (2020). Multinutrients for the treatment of psychiatric symptoms in clinical samples: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Nutrients, 12(11), 3394. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33158241/
  19. Cetin, I., Marangoni, F., Verduci, E., et al. (2016). Maternal Diet and Nutrient Requirements in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding. An Italian Consensus Document. Nutrients, 8(10), Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27754423/

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical, nutritional, or professional advice. While we aim to share helpful insights and opinions for your reading enjoyment, individual health needs may vary. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider, physician, or registered dietitian before making changes to your diet, supplement routine, or health regimen. Sport Formula does not diagnose, treat, or provide medical recommendations. Use this information responsibly and in accordance with your personal needs.

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