by Kripa Watts

As a nutritional consultant I often get asked, “I looked at your web site and I’m really confused about which products to take.  What should I do?”  Generally I will respond by asking the person what they are hoping to accomplish by taking a supplement.  The answer from many is that they simply want to feel energized, be sure that their immune system is getting what it needs to function well and generally support overall well-being.

Of course there are many factors to consider when designing a supplement program, but, if you are looking for a convenient, budget healthy option one of the simplest first steps is to commit to taking a daily multi-vitamin and mineral supplement.  Most companies offer choices that make your job of choosing easy if you ask yourself the following questions:

1. Do you want to take 1 tablet per day or are you okay with multiple tablets?  With MegaFood whole food supplements more tablets means more concentrated food.  One daily formulations will give you a moderate potency of a broad range of nutrients. If you are ok with formulas that require say 3-6 tablets you’ll get a higher dose of certain nutrients, especially some of the larger minerals like calcium and magnesium.
2. Do you want a formulation with or without herbs?  Generally herbs and botanicals are what differentiate products designed specifically for men from those designed for women.  MegaFood Men’s multi vitamins contain herbs that support healthy prostate function for example; while our Women’s formulations have botanicals that support balanced hormone function.

If you prefer to have a product without herbs look for those which are simply concentrated whole                    foods such as One Daily or Optimum Foods

1. Easy question – how old are you?  Many formulas are age specific.  MegaFood offers formulations appropriate for Children, Teen’s, Adults under the age of 40 and those Over 40.

1. Have you chosen or been told to avoid certain specific nutrients?  Many customers prefer a supplement without iron – in this case Iron Free One Daily would be the best option.  Certain medications require limiting or avoidance of other vitamins or minerals such as Iodine, Vitamin K and Vitamin E.  If you have been told to limit these specific nutrients an excellent option would be to choose a tailor made formula such as Medi-Safe.

The simple act of taking a quality whole food multi-vitamin will ensure that your body gets a daily dose of concentrated nutrients.  In fact you will receive, not only those vitamins and minerals with which most of us are familiar, but a vast array of micro-nutrients such as flavonoids, amino acids, glutathione and beta-glucans to name a few.  It’s an easy and inexpensive step toward good health that will support your goals of sustained energy, healthy immunity and overall well-being.  Let us know about your experience with multi-vitamins and don’t hesitate to let us know if you have questions.