Multivitamins are one of the most popular supplements, with a third of adults taking them regularly. Men’s multivitamins, in particular, are designed to address the specific needs of men and can include nutrients that they may need more of, like vitamin D, zinc, and vitamin B12. According to registered dietitian Andrew Wade, MS, RDN, LDN, CSSD, multivitamins can act as an insurance policy to fill in dietary gaps because meeting your nutrient needs through food alone can be difficult–especially as your body’s requirements change with age. While multivitamins are generally safe, choosing the right one is important to ensure you get the best possible nutrient intake.
Since there is no standard for the amount of vitamins and minerals included in multivitamins, we consulted experts to identify the best men’s multivitamins on the market. Our dietitians reviewed the latest research and considered the quality of ingredients, nutrient composition, dosage, form, cost, and third-party testing. We also surveyed over 60 people for feedback on the type of multivitamin they use and why, as well as taste, texture, perceived value, and more.
While all vitamins and minerals are important for men, certain nutrients are more likely to be under-consumed or become more important with age. According to registered dietitian Jasmin Ilkay, MBA, MPH, RDN, men should consider including the following nutrients for bone and heart health, immune function, and healthy fertility when looking for a multivitamin:
- Vitamin D: Vitamin D plays an essential role in bone health, and needs increase with age, with those over 70 requiring the greatest intake. Food sources of Vitamin D are limited, making supplementation important. Additionally, the body’s ability to synthesize vitamin D from sunlight exposure declines with age, making a supplement necessary.
- Calcium: Calcium needs to increase with age, particularly in those 70 years or older. However, most multivitamins do not provide a significant source of calcium. If you’re looking for a supplement to meet your calcium needs, you’ll likely need to add a separate calcium supplement versus relying on a multivitamin alone.
- Vitamin B12: Vitamin B12 is important for central nervous system function. It is found in animal products, and while many foods are fortified with it, a supplement is often necessary, particularly for people on a vegetarian and vegan diet. Additionally, it becomes more difficult for your body to absorb with age, increasing the need for supplementation.
- Zinc: Generally, men require more zinc than women, and older adults may need more zinc in their diets to meet the recommended intake. This essential mineral is important for immune health and is associated with health benefits such as a reduced risk of age-related macular degeneration.
Dietary supplements are minimally regulated by the FDA and may or may not be suitable for you. They also may interact with other supplements or medications you are taking. Our team of medical experts reviews supplements according to our rigorous dietary supplement methodology. We also had a registered dietitian review this page for its scientific accuracy. Please always speak with a healthcare provider to discuss any supplements you plan on taking.
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Why We Like It
Thorne Basic Nutrients 2 / Day provides a daily serving of two capsules that meet the recommended daily value for nutrients essential to men’s health. Each serving contains 2000 IU of vitamin D3, a nutrient necessary to bone health that many men struggle to get enough of through their diet. As men age, their vitamin D needs requirements increase, and up to 2000 IU of vitamin D can help to prevent deficiency.
A single serving of Thorne Basic Nutrients also provides 400mcg of vitamin K, which may offer additional benefits to bone health. It also contains 600mcg of vitamin B12, exceeding the recommended daily intake. However, since there’s no established upper limit, and our bodies efficiently excrete excess B vitamins, this higher dose is unlikely to cause harmful effects. Some people, especially older adults, may benefit from higher vitamin B12 doses as absorption declines with age.
Thorne offers two versions of this multivitamin. One is NSF Certified for Sport and comes at a slightly higher price. It contains the same nutrients, although the extra certification ensures that it is tested for any substances banned for sports. Additionally, Thorne offers similar supplements for men 50+. Our survey results found that while this supplement was easy to swallow, some felt it had a very earthy flavor that, while slightly unpleasant, didn’t prevent them from taking it daily.
It’s Worth Noting
Be aware that a single serving of this supplement exceeds the upper limit of niacin (35mg). However, since the niacin it contains is in the form of nicotinamide, high doses are less likely to cause symptoms such as skin flushing.
Additionally, this multivitamin contains a high dose of biotin, which may interact with certain medications and affect some laboratory results, including thyroid tests and troponin (a cardiac marker). Those taking certain anticoagulant medications should also use caution when adding a multivitamin that contains vitamin K.
Product Details:
- Key Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Vitamin K, Vitamin B12, Niacin, Biotin, Zinc
- Serving Size: 2 capsules
- Servings per Container: 30
- Dietary Considerations: Gluten, Dairy, and Soy Free
- Third-Party Tested: Yes – NSF Certified for Sport
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Why We Like It
The GNC Mega Men multivitamins are high-quality vitamins from a well-established brand. They are third-party tested to ensure purity and potency. One serving contains 50mcg (2083% DV) of vitamin B12 in the form of cyanocobalamin, a synthetic form often used in supplements. Despite some research questioning the efficacy of cyanocobalamin versus methylcobalamin (a natural form of vitamin B12), both forms of vitamin B12 are used in supplements and are considered effective.
A single serving also provides essential nutrients for bone health, including 50mcg (2000 IU) of vitamin D3 as well as 200mg of calcium (15% DV) and 100mg of magnesium (24% DV).
The antioxidants found in GNC Mega Men multivitamins may offer additional benefits. Lutein and zeaxanthin can benefit eye health, and lycopene may provide protective benefits against certain cancers, including prostate cancer.
It’s Worth Noting
GNC Mega Men multivitamins contain soybeans and fish, two major allergens that people with these allergies should avoid.
One serving also contains more than the upper limit of niacin, which may result in skin flushing. Because a single serving has two caplets, the dosage can be split over the day to minimize any symptoms from high-dose niacin. Splitting the dose may also help better absorb nutrients like vitamin B12, as only a small percentage is absorbed at a time.
Product Details:
- Key Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, Calcium, Magnesium
- Serving Size: 2 caplets
- Servings per Container: 90
- Dietary Considerations: Dairy and Gluten Free, Contains Soy and Fish
- Third-Party Tested: Yes – ConsumerLabs.com
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Why We Like It
Nature Made offers high-quality, budget-friendly vitamins. The Nature Made Multi for Him costs $0.15 per tablet, significantly less than many multivitamins on the market. Additionally, most Nature Made vitamins carry the USP Certified seal, a third-party certification that guarantees the quality and potency of supplements.
The one-tablet serving of the Nature Made Multi for Him contains 25mcg (1000IU) of vitamin D3. Both vitamin D2 and vitamin D3 are available in supplement form; however, vitamin D3 has shown to be superior for maintaining higher blood levels of vitamin D. As men age, the ability to make vitamin D from sunlight exposure declines. At the same time, the total needs increase after 70 years of age. For this reason, it’s essential that men, especially those 70 and older, receive adequate vitamin D from the diet and through supplementation.
The Nature Made Multi for Him vitamins also contain a high dose of vitamin B12, which becomes less bioavailable with age. We like the simplicity of the Nature Made Multi for Him as it doesn’t contain any additional herbs or fruit and vegetable blends. This makes it easy to know exactly what you’re getting in a multivitamin without cross-referencing unique ingredients for potential drug-nutrient interactions or side effects.
It’s Worth Noting
Most multivitamins are low in calcium, an essential mineral for bone health. The Nature Made Multi for Him has a small dose of calcium in the form of calcium carbonate (160mg or 12% DV). Those with increased calcium needs, such as men who don’t get enough calcium in their diet or those 70 or older, may need to consider adding a calcium supplement.
Product Details:
- Key Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Niacin, Folate, Vitamin B12, Zinc
- Serving Size: 1 tablet
- Servings per Container: 90
- Dietary Considerations: gluten-free
- Third-Party Tested: Yes – USP
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Why We Like It
Most men’s multivitamins don’t contain iron as it’s not considered a nutrient that’s commonly under-consumed, but some men may require iron supplementation for optimal health. Men following a vegan or vegetarian diet, frequent blood donors, or those with a medical condition such as cancer or gastrointestinal disease may benefit from iron supplementation. The Centrum Men Multivitamin is a good option as one serving contains 8mg iron, or 44% of the daily value.
This budget-friendly multivitamin also contains 25mcg (1000 IU) of vitamin D3 plus 6mcg of vitamin B12 (250% DV) in the form of cyanocobalamin. Research shows minimal difference in absorption rates between cyanocobalamin and methylcobalamin, the two forms of vitamin B12 often found in supplements.
Like the Nature Made Multi for Him, Centrum Men is a basic vitamin without the addition of herbal or proprietary blends. However, it does include a small amount of lycopene, an antioxidant that may offer cardiovascular benefits and play a role in cancer prevention. One tablet of Centrum Men contains 0.6mg of lycopene; for reference, one cup of tomatoes contains between 0.88 and 7.74mg of lycopene.
It’s Worth Noting
Centrum multivitamins do not carry a USP or NSF third-party certification. However, the Centrum brand is well-established and their products are thoroughly tested for quality and safety.
Also, some people find this vitamin larger but still easy to swallow because it’s coated.
Product Details:
- Key Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Niacin, Vitamin B12, Iron
- Serving Size: 1 tablet
- Servings per Container: 200
- Dietary Considerations: gluten-free, not suitable for vegetarians
- Third-Party Tested: No – testing by Centrum, however some Centrum vitamins have been third-party tested by ConsumerLab.com
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Why We Like It
If you’re looking for a multivitamin sourced from whole foods containing no more than 100% of the daily value for each nutrient, Kaged Whole Food Multivitamin is the best choice. One two-capsule serving contains all the nutrients you’d expect from a multivitamin in moderate doses that do not exceed the daily recommended intake.
Unlike traditional vitamins, which can contain synthetic ingredients, this whole-food vitamin is made from organic fruit and veggies. For example, the vitamin D in Kaged is sourced from maitake mushrooms, whereas the calcium and magnesium are from algae.
One serving of two capsules includes 20mcg (800IU) of vitamin D2, 2.4mcg vitamin B12, and 11mg of zinc, all providing 100% DV for each nutrient. A single serving also provides 120mcg of vitamin K as phylloquinone or K1. Both vitamin K1 and vitamin K2 can be found in supplements, although studies are limited on the differences in bioavailability between the two.
Kaged Whole Food multivitamins also include aloe vera, which has been studied for its positive effects on the digestive system and as a potential treatment for irritable bowel syndrome. This supplement is also Informed-Sport Certified, a third-party testing certification that guarantees quality, potency, and labeling accuracy.
It’s Worth Noting
Keep in mind that whole-food vitamins are not necessarily better for you than vitamins made from synthetic ingredients. Ana Reisdorf, MS, RD emphasizes that if you prefer a supplement made from whole foods keep in mind that the nutrients in whole-food vitamins may not always be more bioavailable versus traditional vitamins. Therefore, it’s important to choose a supplement that has been third-party tested.
Additionally, since Kaged Whole Food multivitamins don’t contain high doses of nutrients like vitamin B12, it may not be the best choice for someone with a deficiency.
Product Details:
- Key Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin K, Vitamin B12, Zinc
- Serving Size: 2 capsules
- Servings per Container: 30
- Dietary Considerations: vegan, gluten-free
- Third-Party Tested: Yes – Informed Sport Certified
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Why We Like It
The Nature’s Way Alive! Men’s 50+ Ultra multivitamin is a high-potency vitamin offering higher quantities of some essential nutrients, such as calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, and certain B vitamins.
One serving includes 50mcg (2000 IU) of vitamin D3 and 130mg of calcium (10% DV), two nutrients essential for bone health. You’ll also get a small dose of magnesium in a single serving at 55mg (13% DV). Magnesium is not as readily absorbed in older adults, and intakes are often lower in men over 71 years of age, making it essential to prioritize getting it through diet and supplements to meet daily needs. The Nature’s Way Alive! Men’s 50+ Ultra Multivitamin also includes a high dose of vitamins A and C, two nutrients with antioxidant properties.
This multivitamin doesn’t carry a USP or NSF certification but is third-party tested by ConsumerLab.com to ensure its quality and potency. Participants from our survey reported that while the tablet is hard and on the larger side, it was easy to swallow and didn’t come with any off-putting aromas or tastes.
It’s Worth Noting
The Nature’s Way Alive! Men’s 50+ Ultra multivitamin includes a variety of herb blends as well as fruit and vegetable blends. If you’re taking other medications, it’s necessary to cross-reference additional ingredients in supplements to ensure there are no drug-nutrient interactions.
Product Details:
- Key Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, Calcium
- Serving Size: 1 tablet
- Servings per Container: 60
- Dietary Considerations: gluten-free, not suitable for vegetarians
- Third-Party Tested: Yes – ConsumerLab.com
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Some multivitamins are challenging to swallow and may have a chalky aftertaste. However, these concerns can be alleviated by choosing a softgel like NOW Adam Men’s Multiple Vitamin.
One serving contains a high dose of essential nutrients, including 25mcg (1000 IU) vitamin D3 and 120mcg vitamin B12 in the form of methylcobalamin. You’ll also get 3000mcg of vitamin A (333% DV) in the form of both beta-carotene and retinyl palmitate. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that has many functions in the body, including playing an essential role in eye health and immune function. Because it’s a fat-soluble vitamin, it can be toxic in high doses, therefore the high dose of this multivitamin should be considered if you are taking other supplements or consume a high amount of vitamin A in the diet.
The NOW Adam Men’s multivitamin also contains 100mg of vitamin E (667%) in a single dose, the highest of all our top picks. While this higher dose doesn’t exceed the tolerable upper intake level of 1000mg, it’s well over the daily recommended intake and should also be considered if other supplements containing this nutrient being taken.
We also like this softgel because it includes CoQ10, an antioxidant that declines with age and with certain medications such as statins.
NOW Adam Men’s Multiple Vitamin doesn’t carry a USP or NSF certification, but NOW products undergo extensive testing for quality and purity. Take note, these softgels are not vegetarian or vegan, since they’re made from bovine gelatin.
- Key Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Vitamin B12, Folate
- Serving Size: 2 softgels
- Servings per Container: 45
- Dietary Considerations: free of dairy, egg, and gluten, contains soy
- Third-Party Tested: No – in-house testing
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Why We Like It
DEVA Vegan Multivitamin & Mineral is a high-quality vegan supplement and a top pick from ConsumerLab.com. So, although it does not carry a USP or NSF certification, you can feel good about its quality.
If you’re following a vegetarian or vegan diet, choosing a supplement with optimal amounts of the nutrients often lacking in those diets is important. People who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet can be at higher risk of vitamin B12 deficiency because it is found mostly in meat, fish, dairy products, and eggs. Additionally, iron may be under-consumed due to the potential limited bioavailability of iron from plant sources versus animal sources. One serving of the DEVA Vegan Multivitamin & Mineral contains 20mcg of vitamin D2 (100% DV), 100mcg vitamin B12 (4167% DV), 18mg of iron (100% DV ), and 150mcg iodine (100% DV).
Iodine is another nutrient that can be lacking on a vegan diet because it is found mainly in animal products like dairy, eggs, and seafood. The DEVA Vegan Multivitamin & Mineral offers adequate iron and iodine intake, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans.
It’s Worth Noting
A greens and herbal blend is included in the DEVA Vegan Multivitamin & Mineral and therefore some people may want to avoid this multivitamin as some herbs can interact with certain medications. We recommend checking with a medical professional before adding herbal supplements to your daily regimen.
Product Details:
- Key Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin D, Iron, Iodine, Vitamin B12
- Serving Size: 1 tablet
- Servings per Container: 90
- Dietary Considerations: vegan, free of wheat, gluten, dairy, egg, shellfish
- Third-Party Tested: Yes – ConsumerLab.com
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Why We Like It
The Nature Made Multi + Omega 3 for Him Gummies are an excellent choice if you’re looking for a gummy multivitamin instead of a pill. While this multivitamin contains fewer nutrients than a traditional multivitamin tablet, the dosage and specific nutrients it contains make it a great choice for most men. It also includes omega-3 fatty acids, DHA, and EPA, which support heart health and provide antioxidant benefits.
A two-gummy serving provides 25 mcg (1000 IU) of vitamin D3 and 6 mcg (250% DV) of vitamin B12. You’ll also get a moderate dose of vitamins A and C and 15mg (100% DV) of vitamin E in a single serving.
Many gummy multivitamins can be lower in nutrients due to how they’re manufactured. However, their taste and ease of use make them appealing to those who avoid tablets or other pills. But, because gummy vitamins can potentially vary in their nutrient quantity versus what’s listed on the label, you should choose a product that’s been third-party tested. The Nature Made Multi + Omega 3 for Him has been third-party tested and carries the USP certification, guaranteeing its quality and potency. They’re also enjoyable to take, with one of our survey respondents reporting that these ones tasted like fruit snacks.
It’s Worth Noting
The Nature Made Multi + Omega 3 for Him does not contain magnesium, calcium, or vitamin K. This should be considered, especially if the diet lacks those nutrients.
Product Details:
- Key Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, EPA & DHA
- Serving Size: 2 gummies
- Servings per Container: 40
- Dietary Considerations: gluten-free, contains fish
- Third-Party Tested: Yes – USP
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Why We Like It
The PURE Encapsulations O.N.E. Multivitamin is third-party tested and free of many major allergens, making it a great allergy-friendly choice. It is also certified gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly.
In this supplement, you’ll get a high dose of many essential nutrients in a single serving, including B12. One serving delivers 500mcg of vitamin B12 or over 20,000% of the daily value. This number looks pretty high, but research indicates that only a small percentage of vitamin B12 is absorbed at a time, so higher doses may actually be beneficial. Additionally, there is no tolerable upper intake level for vitamin B12, meaning it is safe to take high doses.
The Pure Encapsulations O.N.E. multivitamin also contains 50 mcg (2000 IU) of vitamin D3 as well as 667 mcg of folate (167% DV), 400 mcg of which is in the form of L-5-MTHF or the active form of folate that may be more bioavailable.
One serving also contains 50mg CoQ10, an antioxidant that has been shown to decline with age and with the use of certain medications.
It’s Worth Noting
This multivitamin does not contain calcium or magnesium, which may require additional supplementation in some cases. It also contains biotin which can interfere with some blood tests, including thyroid and troponin tests, and may influence how certain medications work in the body. It is wise to discuss any supplements you choose to take with your doctor or other health professional.
Product Details:
- Key Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Folate, Vitamin B12, Biotin, Iodine, Zinc
- Serving Size: 1 capsule
- Servings per Container: 30
- Dietary Considerations: free of wheat, soy, dairy, eggs, tree nuts, peanuts, sesame gluten
- Third-Party Tested: Yes
There are many reasons to consider taking a multivitamin. According to registered dietitian Lexi Moriarty, MS, RDN, CSSD, RYT, men should consider taking a multivitamin if they struggle to eat a well-balanced diet regularly. She also notes that men with higher nutritional needs due to factors like athletic training, dieting, and digestive issues may find it difficult to meet their needs through diet alone, putting them at risk for a deficiency. In these cases, she often recommends a multivitamin.
Lifestyle factors also influence this decision. For example, Ilkay explains that smokers and heavy drinkers should consider taking a multivitamin to compensate for any potential nutrient deficiencies. However, both Ilkay and Moriarty emphasize that, ideally, whole foods should be the primary source of nutrients.
It’s important to note that the FDA does not review dietary supplements for safety and effectiveness before they go to market. However, our team works hard to be transparent about why we recommend certain supplements; you can read more about our dietary supplement methodology here.
We support supplements that are evidence-based and rooted in science. We value certain product attributes that we find to be associated with the highest quality products. We prioritize third-party tested products and are certified by independent, third-party certifiers such as USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab.com.
Our process for reviewing men’s multivitamins includes expert interviews and consumer survey results. We spoke with multiple experts in the nutrition field to identify recommended multivitamin brands that meet quality standards. A wide range of men’s multivitamins were reviewed and analyzed to find the best multivitamin for each category while considering the nutrient composition and third-party testing. Additionally, we surveyed over 60 people for feedback on the type of multivitamin they chose and why, plus feedback on the taste and texture of the product. All of these factors were considered when identifying the top 10 best multivitamins for men.
Our experts include registered dietitians specializing in men’s health.
- Andrew Wade, MS, RDN, LDN, CSSD, is a Registered Dietitian and CEO of Case Specific Nutrition. Case Specific Nutrition is a Dietitian Group Practice with 8 locations and contracts servicing fitness centers, corporate wellness initiatives, health and rehabilitation sites, and family medical offices.
- Lexi Moriarty, MS, RDN, CSSD, RYT, is a Registered Dietitian, Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics, and owner of Fueled + Balanced Nutrition.
- Ana Reisdorf, MS, RD is a Registered Dietitian for The Food Trends, where all things trending in food and nutrition are reviewed from an RD’s point of view.
- Jasmin Ilkay, MBA, MPH, RDN, is a Registered Dietitian in New York City. She utilizes her extensive knowledge of nutrition science and research-driven communication strategies to promote healthy and sustainable lifestyles. Her approach educates and inspires consumers to make informed dietary choices that benefit themselves and the planet.
Multivitamins are available in various forms, including tablets, softgels, gummies, and liquids. According to Reisdorf, the type you choose depends on personal preference and ease of use. She explains that gummies are easier and tastier but have added sugar and may contain fewer nutrients; tablets and capsules can be hard to swallow but typically can provide more nutrients. Here are the most popular different forms:
- Tablets: Tablets are one of the most common forms of multivitamins. They often contain more nutrients per serving but can have an off-putting taste, particularly if not coated.
- Gummies: Gummies are candy-like vitamins that are chewed versus swallowed whole. Most gummies contain added sugar, and some are made with gelatin making them inappropriate for vegan or vegetarian diets. There may also be inconsistencies in the quantity of each nutrient listed in the vitamin since manufacturing gummy vitamins may not be as precise as manufacturing tablets or other pill forms of vitamins. According to independent third-party tester ConsumerLab.com, some gummy vitamins have significantly more or less of the nutrients listed on the label. It’s essential to ensure you’re choosing a gummy vitamin that’s been thoroughly tested and approved by a third party.
- Softgels: Softgel multivitamins are similar to tablets in that they must be swallowed whole. However, softgels may be easier to swallow than tablets due to their texture and shape. Softgels are also less likely to have a smell or off-putting taste versus tablets.
It is essential to carefully read a supplement’s ingredient list and nutrition facts panel to determine which ingredients are included and how much of each ingredient is included relative to its recommended daily value. Please bring the supplement label to a healthcare provider to review the different ingredients contained in the supplement and any potential interactions between these ingredients and other supplements and medications you are taking.
Most multivitamins include a mix of essential nutrients in varied quantities and forms. Some brands rely on synthetic nutrients, while others deliver nutrients in natural, non-synthetic forms. These differences may influence bioavailability, but in most cases, the synthetic and natural forms are absorbed at similar rates in the body.
In addition to the standard nutrients you’d expect in a multivitamin, some may include fruit and vegetable blends, herbal blends, or other proprietary ingredients, which Wade cautions against. “In addition to watching quality with key ingredient type and USP certifications, pay attention to dosages and transparency on the label (beware of blends),” he says. Additional ingredients should be considered before choosing a multivitamin, as some may interact with medications.
Multivitamins are designed to provide a range of essential nutrients in amounts that meet most people’s needs. Once you’ve selected a multivitamin that meets your nutrient needs, it’s important to follow the dosage instructions to ensure you’re receiving the nutrients in appropriate amounts. “According to Wade, some multivitamins are now combined with other supplements such as pre-workout and energy drinks; however, these products can be excessive and should be used with caution.
It’s also important to consider the complete diet and other supplements, if any. “Using more than one supplement that contains similar nutrients can increase the potential for toxicity,” says Moriarty. She recommends avoiding excessive intake of certain nutrients like the fat-soluble vitamins (vitamins A, D, E, and K) as well as high doses of certain minerals like iron to avoid the potential for toxicity. “Consult an RDN or other healthcare professional to look out for potential nutrient-nutrient interactions and drug-nutrient interactions that can have negative consequences,” she says.
Can I take a multivitamin on an empty stomach?
Multivitamins are best taken with food to prevent nausea related to the high dose of certain nutrients. It’s also important to take nutrients like the fat-soluble vitamins found in multivitamins with fat-containing foods to aid absorption. Other minerals like iron may cause nausea if taken on an empty stomach, so adding your multivitamin to a meal is advisable.
Do I need a multivitamin if I have a healthy diet?
Multivitamins are designed to fill nutrient gaps in the diet. Even the healthiest diets may occasionally lack essential nutrients; however, this doesn’t mean a multivitamin is required. Groups at a greater risk of inadequate nutrient intake, such as those following a restrictive diet or those with chronic conditions that impact nutrient absorption, should consider a multivitamin to meet nutrient needs.
Should I take a multivitamin every day?
If you choose to add a multivitamin to your diet, then yes, it should be taken every day. This consistency in nutrient intake is optimal to deliver nutrients the body needs for normal bodily functions.
What’s the best time of day to take a multivitamin?
Ideally, a multivitamin should be taken with a small amount of food, so if you typically eat breakfast, then you can take your multivitamin with your first meal. However, if you often skip breakfast or don’t eat until later in the day, plan to take your multivitamin with your first meal. Aim for a consistent routine when taking a multivitamin.
Allison Knott, MS, RDN, CSSD, CDN, is a registered dietitian nutritionist and board-certified specialist in sports dietetics. She is the founder of Anew Well Nutrition, a virtual nutrition consulting practice focusing on fitness and performance nutrition. Allison has spent much of her career in the food and beverage industry where she has played an integral role in the development of healthy eating programs in corporate dining settings as well as for professional athlete performance nutrition programs. Most recently, Allison led the nutrition strategy for a fast-growing food delivery start-up.