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Should I be taking vitamin supplements?

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Hi there and thank you for your question!

Vitamins and other dietary supplements can help you get adequate nutrition but are not necessary for maintaining your health. Most people can meet their nutritional needs from eating a variety of foods, but needs can change so some people can benefit from taking nutritional supplements as they age or to help treat a health condition.

However, many supplements are not well tested for safety, and there can be potential health risks and harmful side effects, such as liver damage and reduced bone strength(1).

I encourage talking to your doctor or healthcare provider before taking any dietary supplements. 

I hope this helps!

 

Cheers,

Anna Ng, RD

 

Reference:

1. "Dietary Supplements: What You Need to Know." National Institutes of Health. Updated September 3, 2020. Accessed December 11, 2020. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/WYNTK-Consumer/

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Jennifer WeissmanRegistered Dietitian

“Funded by USDA SNAP, an equal opportunity provider and employer. Visit http://calfreshhealthyliving.org for healthy tips.”