The Benefits and Risks of Taking Vitamins Daily

Taking vitamins daily can be beneficial for your health, but it is important to be aware of the potential side effects. Certain side effects are more likely than others when you take multivitamins, such as constipation, diarrhea, upset stomach, or nausea. Nausea, stomach upset, diarrhea, hot flashes, and an unpleasant taste may occur. Minerals (especially if taken in large doses) can cause side effects, such as stains on the teeth, increased urination, stomach bleeding, irregular heart rate, confusion and muscle weakness, or a feeling of limping.

Half of American adults take a multivitamin or other vitamin or mineral supplement on a regular basis. The healers offered a variety of instructions and herbs, but none voluntarily offered relevant data on the possible side effects or risky interactions that can occur when taking an herb with a medication. It is important to make sure you are taking the right type of multivitamin for your age and health needs. Josh Axe, DNM, DCNS, DC explains that 70% of the average American diet comes from processed or ultra-processed foods, which are dense in calories but low in vitamins and minerals.

He recommends looking for multivitamins that have vitamin D3, vitamin K2, folic acid and vitamin B12 as they all promote cardiovascular health. If you normally have an incredible memory and are able to come up with creative ideas but are struggling lately, a multivitamin could be beneficial. It is also important to be aware of the potential risks associated with taking vitamins daily. Over the past decade, the FDA's regulatory partner has filed more than 100 legal challenges against claims about the effectiveness of supplements.

Other medications may affect multivitamins, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. They also noted that in previous studies vitamin E and beta-carotene supplements appear to be harmful especially at high doses. B vitamins including folic acid are found naturally in leafy greens and other vegetables as well as in citrus fruits. If you're exposed to the sun at noon during the warmer months and regularly eat foods rich in vitamin D such as fatty fish eggs and fortified dairy products you probably don't need to take a supplement.

It is important to consult with your doctor before taking any vitamins or supplements to make sure they are right for you. Be sure to read the label of any multivitamin product you're taking to make sure you know what's in it.