Choosing the right multivitamin can seem like a stress-inducing task. Before purchasing a supplement, consumers should review the percentage of daily values (DV) for each vitamin and mineral contained in the multivitamin. Below are tips for choosing a safe, effective, and affordable multivitamin:
- Check the expiration date to ensure the bottle can be finished.
- Check for ingredients that can cause food allergies.
- Ensure some, but not all, nutrients contain 100% of their daily value.
- Check for nutrient composition based on gender and age.
VitaGlow, known as Pakistan’s best brand for supplement’s and vitamins, offers some of the best multivitamin options. Our DDA – tablet is a vitamin powerhouse, containing a blend of twenty essential minerals and vitamins. It is an all-in-one solution for best daily wellbeing.
Tips for selecting multivitamins based on age, gender, and lifestyle
Children of age 5 and older can take vitamins and supplements containing vitamins A, C and D every day. However, be sure to consult a doctor first. Supplementing your child’s diet with multivitamins daily or regularly has its benefits, more so if the child has nutritional gaps or deficits. Some benefits of multivitamins are:
- Strong bones
- Strong teeth
- Improved energy levels
- Filling nutritional gaps
- Improved immune system
Adults who eat a well-balanced diet probably do not need to take multivitamins. However, if your body is missing vitamins and nutrients, here are some things to look for the next time you walk down the supplement aisle.
Daily Value (DV)
Check to make sure that the multivitamin contains close to 100% of the DV of the ingredients. When it comes to some nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, it is not possible to put high amounts of them into one daily tablet. Going over 100% of the DV can actually be harmful, as these substances build up in your body over time and could potentially become toxic.
Your Age and Gender
Choosing a multivitamin that is right for you depends on several factors, including your age, gender, diet, and other lifestyle factors.
Some multivitamins are not gender- or age-specific. However, multivitamins that are gender or age-specific have different compositions. If you are going to start taking a supplement, pick one that is suitable for your gender and age group so that you are getting the right mix of vitamins and minerals.
The Right Blend of Nutrients
Experts agree that the average adult often does not get enough of the major five nutrients from their regular diet. These are:
- Calcium
- Vitamin D
- Potassium
- Magnesium
- Fiber
Explanation of common ingredients and their roles
While countless dietary supplements are available today, the classic multivitamin is still the most popular. However, there are some key vitamins and minerals that most people need. Here are seven ingredients a multivitamin should contain:
Vitamin B12
It supports the nervous system and is essential for red blood cell formation, DNA synthesis, and metabolism. While it is possible to get all the B12 you need from food, there are several reasons why you might not be getting enough.
Folate
Although folate is found in fruits, vegetables, and legumes, many people do not get enough through diet. It is especially important for women who may become pregnant to get adequate folate, since it’s essential for proper fetal development in the first month of pregnancy.
Vitamin D
Vitamin is produced in your body when sunlight hits the skin. The ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun prompt the cells in the body to produce vitamin D. It is essential for supporting bone health and maintaining the balance of within your body.
Iron
Sufficient iron ensures proper oxygen conveyance from the lungs and the formation of healthy red blood cells.
Calcium
Adequate calcium is essential for building and maintaining strong bones and for keeping your heart, muscles, and nerves functioning properly. Adults need between 1,000 and 1,200 mg of calcium per day, depending on age and gender.
Magnesium
Magnesium is important to support muscle and nerve function in the body. It helps regulate sugar and pressure. People who have magnesium deficiencies do not usually have symptoms. Prolonged deficiency can increase the risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, and heart disease. Adults need between 310 mg and 420 mg of magnesium per day, not more.
Zinc
Zinc is a key mineral in metabolism. It also supports immunity, wound healing, and the sense of smell and taste. The recommended daily amount is 8 mg for women and 11 mg for men.
