I am 49 years old, I exercise five times a week, I’m average weight, I’ve never smoked and I eat pretty healthy. What daily vitamins should I be taking? I am very confused by all the different choices out there.
Getting most of your nutrients from food is best rather than supplementing with vitamins. A Mediterranean diet that includes the following types of foods is the best choice:
- Fruits
- Veggies
- Nuts
- Legumes
- Olive oil
- Minimal if any red meat
- Omega 3 rich foods twice a week, such as: fish, walnuts, almonds, spinach
If you live in a northern climate, you should take a vitamin D3 supplement. And ask your physician to check your 25 OH vitamin D level.
If you are over age 65, you should also consider getting your vitamin B12 level checked. Most healthy adults, eating a healthy diet do not need to take a multivitamin, but many do need vitamin D3 1,000 iu to up to 2,000 iu daily.
All My Best,
Speaking of Women's Health Nurse
September 12, 2013 at 2:56pm