Multivitamin and mineral supplements are an essential form of supplementation in terms of overall heath and wellbeing. Studies have shown that a majority of people these days suffer from starvation in terms of one nutrient or anther, and multivitamins and mineral supplements are the most effective way to ensure these dietary gaps are filled. Our modern diet and lifestyles are the greatest contributing factor to this nutritional threat to our bodies. Whether it’s unhealthy processed foods, too much time spent inside sunshine-free building, a lack of exercise, or simply the time constraints that force many people to rely on ‘snack’ foods that allow us to live our on-the-go lifestyles, our bodies are not getting all the nutrients needed to maintain optimal bodily health.

Multivitamin and mineral supplements are made to meet the daily essential vitamin and mineral requirements of the body. Multivitamin and mineral supplements improve a number of bodily functions, such as cell regeneration, cardiovascular, brain, and immune and nervous system functions. It is very important to stay within the recommended dose of vitamin and mineral levels put forward by experts. Going beyond the recommended daily limits will not provide any further benefits and can even be counterproductive and potentially detrimental to overall health and wellbeing.

Multivitamin and mineral supplements regularly contain daily amounts of vitamins A, C, E, and a number of B vitamins, folic acid, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium and beta carotene. Many multivitamin and mineral supplements also tend to include other ingredients such as omega-3 essential fatty acids and pro-biotic nutrients.

Omega-3 essential fatty acids have been found to be very beneficial for a number of bodily functions, from brain, memory and mental capacity to decreasing the risk arthritis by lubricating joints and strengthening cartilage. Pro-biotic nutrients are bacteria that help break down and digest food, allowing more nutrients to reach their targets more quickly, eliminateing poor digestion and can protect against and treat certain digestive diseases.

Sodium is found in the fluid surrounding the cells and is used to regulate blood pressure and pH balance. Muscles and nervous system functions also need sodium to perform properly. Chloride is an essential nutrient that ensures proper digestive functions in the stomach by maintaining the production of digestive juices and helping to keep fluids in balance.

Calcium is acknowledged as a preventative mineral that protects against osteoporosis, is especially important for strong bones and teeth, and plays a central role in blood clotting, muscle contraction, hormonal secretion and normal nervous system functions. Magnesium is a vital mineral that is required for hundreds of biochemical reactions, normal muscle and nerve functions, a healthy cardiovascular system, and strong bones and functioning immune system. Phosphorus plays an important role in many biochemical reactions that convert foods into energy, and also helps with muscle contraction, nerve conduction and normal kidney function.

Selenium functions as an antioxidant and protects the immune system, while iodine assists in the metabolizing fat and helps with mental development. Copper is a vital trace mineral in terms of the healing process, and manganese regulates blood sugar and aids the immune system. Zinc improves immune system functions and is important for growth and bodily development. Iron works with red blood cell production and in producing energy.