Vitamins are micronutrients that are required in small amounts for healthy growth and development. Most vitamins occur naturally in foods but humans do not synthesize all of them, which is why it is essential to include these micronutrients in your diet.
Inadequate intake of any vitamin in the diet can cause vitamin deficiency disease. Therefore, vitamin supplementation is advised to correct inadequate intake in the diet and to treat the deficiency, according to drugs.com.
Vitamin deficiencies remain common globally and they often go clinically unrecognized. They can affect all ages and frequently co-exist with mineral deficiencies, according to Science Direct.
Some of the most common deficiencies relate to vitamin A, B, and D. Other vitamin deficiency diseases such as scurvy (vitamin C deficiency) and pellagra (niacin deficiency) are rare – thanks to supplementation.
Common generic drugs or vitamins used for vitamin deficiencies disorders include:
- Vitamin A: beta-carotene, retinol,
- Vitamin B: l-methylfolate, niacin, cyanocobalamin, folate (folic acid), riboflavin, pyridoxine, thiamine, biotin,
- Vitamin C: ascorbic acid
- Vitamin D: alfacalcifediol, calcitriol, cholecalciferol, ergocalciferol, paricalcitol, doxercalciferol
- Vitamin E: alpha-tocopherol, tocopherol
- Vitamin K: phytonadione
Vitamin deficiencies are common and research indicates that people are likely to supplement with daily multivitamins to prevent those deficiencies. We should understand the effects of different vitamins on humans, including brain function.
Adding multivitamins to your diet can address any vitamin deficiency and improve your overall bodily functions.
You must take your multivitamin orally, usually once daily or as advised by your doctor. Do not take more than the recommended dose. You must take your vitamins regularly to get the most benefit from them. Makes sure you take your dose at the same time each day.
Some of the common side effects of multivitamins may include constipation, diarrhea, or upset stomach. These side effects may disappear as your body adjusts to the generic vitamin supplement you take.
Before taking any multivitamins, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs and if you have any medical condition, such as liver cirrhosis or intestinal problems. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before using any multivitamins.
