January 28, 2025
Should You be Taking a Multivitamin?
Jessica Hernandez RD LD, OSU Health Plan Health Coach

Nearly half of adults living in the United States take a multivitamin. For those who eat a balanced diet, a multivitamin may not have much benefit. A diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats should be enough to provide most nutrients needed for the body. However, not everyone manages their diet perfectly.

Certain individuals may benefit from taking a multivitamin to help meet their nutritional needs. Taking a multivitamin is often recommended for older adults and those with certain conditions to help prevent disease and nutrient deficiencies. Here are some other groups of people to consider:  

  • People with Dietary Restrictions: Individuals following restrictive diets (such as vegan or vegetarian) may miss key nutrients like B12, iron, or calcium found in animal products.
  • Older Adults: As people age, nutrient absorption can decrease, and needs for certain vitamins, like Vitamin D and B12, often increase, making multivitamins beneficial.
  • Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women: Specific nutrients, such as folic acid, iron, and calcium, are critical for fetal development and maternal health, so a prenatal multivitamin is often recommended.
  • People with Medical Conditions or Medications that Affect Nutrient Absorption: Certain conditions (like celiac or Crohn's disease) and medications may limit the body’s ability to absorb nutrients, making supplementation helpful.
  • Those with Limited Access to Fresh, Varied Foods: Multivitamins can help bridge nutritional gaps for people with limited access to a variety of foods, like fresh fruits and vegetables, which provide a range of essential vitamins and minerals.

Taking a multivitamin can be an effective way to support overall health, particularly for individuals who may not get enough nutrients through diet alone. Multivitamins provide a blend of essential vitamins and minerals that play vital roles in maintaining immune function, energy levels, and cellular health. For those with dietary restrictions, busy lifestyles, or specific health needs, a multivitamin can help fill nutritional gaps, promoting balanced nutrition. However, it’s important to choose a multivitamin appropriate to your age, health status, and dietary habits to ensure safe supplementation. It’s best to consult a healthcare provider to determine if a multivitamin is right for you and to avoid unnecessary or excessive intake.

Join OSU Health Plan Health Coach Lindsay on March 20 from noon to 12:30 p.m. for the educational program webinar "What You Need to Know About Multivitamins." Lindsay will teach you how to read a supplement label to find high-quality vitamins and learn more about what vitamins may or may not be essential to you. Register here.