Vitamins are essential to life. With the consumption of denatured foods and produce grown on poor soil, the average diet may supply just enough vitamins to avoid overt signs of deficiency, yet fail to supply levels that facilitate optimal health. Additionally, certain health conditions, advancing age, poor absorption, and lifestyle choices can increase the demand for vitamins. Pregnancy also increases the need for a number of nutrients.
Most multinutrient supplements contain minerals; however, many individuals will want to add greater amounts to their daily regimen depending upon their dietary intake. Calcium, for example, is a mineral that is required in higher amounts than most multivitamins or one’s diet provides. Other mineral supplements — including magnesium, zinc, potassium, selenium, chromium, boron and copper — may be needed depending upon specific health concerns.