October
2007
Common Vitamin Questions ( FAQ )
Q) Should I take a multi-vitamin daily?
A) Absolutely, unless you have a medical condition. Even then you can tailor your multi-vitamin intake with other supplements. We receive many of the required vitamins and minerals through our diet but this is usually not enough. Most of the multi-vitamin supplements today are safe from toxicity levels regardless of your current diet. If in doubt don’t hesitate to visit your doctor or qualified medical professional.
Q) Why should I take a multivitamin everyday?
A) If you eat a perfectly balanced diet, are in excellent health, live in a low pollution environment, are affected very little by stress, and exercise regularly and vigorously then you probably don’t need to take a multi-vitamin everyday. Unfortunately most of us don’t meet this criteria and as a matter of fact I doubt most of us can get anywhere near a balanced diet alone. Our bodies can use up most of the vitamins we do get through our diet just keeping our vital functions working properly before we add on the additional stressors listed.
Q) When I go to the store I’m overwhelmed.
A) It is estimated that 85 million Americans now take multi-vitamins or supplements on a regular basis and there are many companies selling these supplements and trying to appeal to this market. Some companies attempt to create, or jump on the latest, new and improved, trend or attempt to take advantage of the confusion. But, there are many good multi-vitamin and supplement products by reputable companies, name brand and generic, available. Many of these supplemental products either cater, or are manufactured, with a particular part of this market in mind. Gender, age, lifestyle, medical conditions and so forth. Talk to your doctor or qualified medical professional if in doubt. Read the labels and choose carefully.
Q) How much of what do I need?
A) This question has a number of variables you need to consider before choosing a multi-vitamin or any supplement. Your age, gender, diet, activity level, lifestyle, environmental factors, and any medical conditions you may have. This also includes your parents and grandparents since many medical conditions are now appearing to follow or show hereditary patterns. Most doctors will probably recommend and anti-oxidant and multi-vitamin for both men and women as a basic foundation for nutritional insurance. The overall risk of side effects from vitamins or supplements is extremely small, but you should definitely avoid massive doses and “mega dosin”. If you decide that certain factors in your life or lifestyle may require an increase in certain vitamins or other supplements see your doctor or qualified medical professional, or at least start small and sensible.
Q) What are vitamins?
A) In a nutshell, vitamins are micro nutrients and chemicals our bodies carry and convert to control the thousands of biological chemical reactions needed to keep our bodies working properly. Vitamins are crucial for the growth and maintenance, and they act as both enzymes and coenzymes so nutrients like amino acids and glucose can be utilized for muscle growth and energy.
Q) What is RDA?
A) RDA stands for Recommended Daily Allowance. During the 1800s scientists began to attempt to identify and discover cures for vitamin deficiency diseases such as Beri-beri, Scurvy, and Pallegra. This evolved into government scientists, during the 1930s to establish “minimum daily requirements” in an effort to prevent these deficiency diseases. This also evolved into RDA. However, as studies continue, these RDA standards may soon become obsolete or evolve into “optimum health” allowances or recommendations for vitamins and supplements since higher vitamin levels appear to increase life length and increase life quality.
Q) What is absorption?
A) With the exception of Vitamin D, our bodies cannot produce vitamins so we must consume them as part of our diet. Vitamins are usually absorbed in the small intestine. Vitamins are absorbed differently though, based on their particular solubility. Divided into two basic groups, the Vitamins Bs and C are water soluble while Vitamins A, D, E, and K are fat soluble. Some vitamins bind with other compounds to be absorbed this is why most vitamins and supplements are recommended to be taken with food or water. Some foods, medications, and even other vitamins and minerals can compete for absorption, or even block absorption of other vitamins and minerals as they move through the small intestine. This competition, or blocking action, is usually termed “Inhibitors”. On the other side of the coin there are certain vitamin “Enhancers” or “Helpers” that either assist in absorption or are necessary for it.
Q) If I take a multi-vitamin or supplements can I cut down on my food intake?
A) You definitely should not. A balanced diet is still important and is the best way to get the vitamins and minerals our bodies need. If you are looking to lose body fat then trimming unnecessary calories and an increase in exercise is best.