Choosing a vitamin and mineral supplement

The following tips may help you choose vitamin and mineral supplements:

• Choose a balanced multiple vitamin and mineral supplement rather than a specific vitamin or mineral, unless it has been prescribed by your health professional. Too much of any one vitamin or mineral may be toxic and can interfere with the body's ability to use other vitamins and minerals.
• Choose a supplement that provides about 100% of the dietary reference intakes (DRIs)/recommended dietary allowances (RDAs) for vitamins and minerals.
• Avoid taking much more than 100% of the DRI/RDA for any vitamin or mineral unless prescribed by your health professional. This is particularly important for the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K and for minerals. Because they are stored in the body, large doses can build up to toxic levels.
• Do not expect a supplement to make up for a poor diet.
• High-priced brand-name vitamins are no better than store or generic brands with the same levels of vitamins and minerals.
• Check expiration dates.
• Make sure supplements are labeled with USP (U.S. Pharmacopeia).

Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS	Last Updated February 23, 2007
Medical Review:	Ruth Schneider, MPH, RD - Diet and Nutrition Rhonda O'Brien, RD, CDE - Diabetes Educator
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.