Sage-Tips

Does it matter whether you get your vitamins from a multi vitamin or from fresh foods Why?

In many instances, the vitamins and minerals found in food sources are easier to absorb than those in supplement form. With the added benefit of the other nutrients found in food, eating healthily gives far greater benefits than opting for supplements and eating poorly.

Should you get your nutrients from food or from supplements?

There were several key findings: Adequate intakes of vitamin A, K, zinc, and magnesium — from food, not supplements — were linked to a lower risk of death. Adequate intakes of vitamin A, vitamin K, and zinc — from foods, not supplements — were associated with a lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease.

Would taking a vitamin supplement be just as effective as eating real food?

Supplements aren’t intended to replace food. They can’t replicate all of the nutrients and benefits of whole foods, such as fruits and vegetables. Whole foods offer three main benefits over dietary supplements: Greater nutrition.

Why should we not rely on supplements?

But research published in 2019 in the Annals of Internal Medicine suggests that vitamins and supplements may not be enough to keep you healthy. Nutrients consumed via supplements do not improve health and longevity as effectively as those consumed through foods, according to the study.

Are vitamins and mineral supplements necessary?

Most people do not need to take vitamin supplements and can get all the vitamins and minerals they need by eating a healthy, balanced diet. Vitamins and minerals, such as iron, calcium and vitamin C, are essential nutrients that your body needs in small amounts to work properly.

Is it better to get my vitamins from food or supplements?

It is generally best to get your vitamins (as well as minerals) naturally from foods or, in the case of vitamin D, controlled sun exposure. For example, multiple studies have shown that calcium from foods is safer than from supplements.

Do you really need a multivitamin?

Throughout your life, your nutrient needs evolve—even if you continue to enjoy a consistently healthy diet. For pregnant women, certain nutrients like Folate and Choline become super important—but can be hard to get enough of through your diet without taking a multivitamin. And if you’re 50+?

Is it better to take natural or synthetic vitamins?

For example, studies show that natural vitamin E is absorbed twice as efficiently as synthetic vitamin E ( 5 ). It is unclear how well synthetic nutrients are absorbed and used in the body. Your body will use nutrients best when taken in whole food form, with a wide variety of food compounds.

Are some nutrients more easily absorbed than others?

Some may be more easily absorbed, not others ( 3 ). This is because when you eat real food, you’re not consuming single nutrients, but rather a whole range of vitamins, minerals, co-factors and enzymes that allow for optimal use by the body.