What to know
Walk into any store and you’ll find endless shelves of vitamins and supplements promising better energy, stronger immunity, and improved health. But with so many options available, it can be difficult to know what your body actually needs.
The truth is, there is no one-size-fits-all vitamin plan. Your needs depend on your age, diet, lifestyle, medical/surgical history, and any medications you may take.
Start With the Basics
A balanced diet filled with fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats is the best way to get the nutrients your body needs. Supplements are designed to fill nutritional gaps—not replace healthy habits!
What I ask my patients
1. What are we trying to achieve? – Is this the right supplement/vitamin for what you are hoping to achieve?
2. Is it safe? – Look for the NSF or USP certification so you know what you are putting in your body is what is listed on the bottle.
3. Does it interfere with medications/current health problems? – Some supplements can cause dangerous side effects when taken with certain medications or medical conditions
Common vitamins and supplements
- Vitamin D: Important in pregnancy and infancy but also many adults have low levels, especially those with limited sun exposure. Vitamin D plays an important role in bone health and immune function.
- Vitamin B12: This vitamin supports nerve health and energy production and may be important for people with certain diets or absorption concerns.
- Calcium: Adequate calcium intake supports strong bones and may be recommended when dietary intake is not enough.
- Iron: Iron is important for healthy blood cells, but it should only be taken when needed since too much can cause problems.
- Creatine Monohydrate: Can help with maintenance of muscle mass and strength in elderly. Effective for athlete performance, specifically short, high intensity exercise.
What You Shouldn’t Do
More vitamins aren’t always better. Taking high doses of certain supplements without knowing your needs can be unnecessary or even harmful. It’s important to talk with your healthcare provider before starting new supplements, especially if you take medications or have existing health conditions.
- More is not safer. Very high doses can be harmful. Stay at or below label amounts unless your clinician directs otherwise.
- Beta-carotene: Should be avoided by smokers and people at high risk of lung cancer — it can increase lung cancer risk.
- Vitamin A: Too much can harm the liver and bones; avoid high doses in pregnancy (can cause birth defects).
- Vitamin C and calcium: High doses can raise the risk of kidney stones.
- Vitamin E: High doses may increase bleeding risk.
- Iron: Only take if you need it; excess can be harmful and can be dangerous to children who accidentally swallow pills.
- Supplements can interact with medications. Tell your clinician and pharmacist about every supplement you take.
The Bottom Line
The best vitamin routine is one that is personalized for you. Instead of guessing, talk with your healthcare provider about your diet, lifestyle, and whether any supplements or lab testing may be appropriate.
Your health goals are unique—and your approach to nutrition should be too.
Have any questions? Schedule a consultation to go over what’s best for you. To make an appointment call us at 817.346.4000 or visit us at bradbartelsmd.com