Understanding the ingredient variety in a multivitamin supplement
A good multivitamin supplement contains all 13 essential vitamins, including A, D, E, K as well as the B‑group vitamins and vitamin C. It also includes minerals such as calcium, magnesium, zinc and selenium, which support important functions like bone formation and immune defence.
Multivitamins for specific diets
If you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, pay particular attention to adequate intake of vitamin B12, iron and calcium. Targeted supplementation with a multivitamin can help close critical nutrient gaps and support your health.
Supplementation for children, athletes or after surgery
Additional vitamins and minerals can be especially beneficial for children, performance athletes and people after gastric surgery, to support growth, recovery and vitality.
Healthy diet as the foundation
Rely first on a vitamin-rich diet with roughly 400 g of vegetables, 250 g of fruit daily, plus wholegrain and dairy products. Fresh, raw or gently steamed vegetables preserve most vitamins, and using the cooking water prevents loss of valuable nutrients.
Multivitamins supplement, they do not replace
Multivitamin supplements are designed to correct deficiencies, not to replace a balanced and varied diet. Doses are typically around 0.5 to 2 times the daily requirement and should therefore be regarded as a supplement.
Watch the right time to take them
Take your multivitamin ideally with a main meal to optimise absorption. Avoid coffee, tea or milk at the time of intake, as these drinks can interfere with vitamin absorption.
Fat‑soluble vitamins should be taken with fat
Vitamins such as A, D, E and K need fat to be used optimally by the body. Therefore, take multivitamin supplements containing these vitamins together with a meal that contains fat or oil.
Consider the different forms of multivitamins
Tablets are often inexpensive, easy to dose and suitable for vegans, but may contain excipients. Capsules better protect ingredients and are usually free from additives, but often contain gelatine. Effervescent, chewable or lozenges are good for people with swallowing difficulties, but often include flavourings whose naturalness should be checked.
Pay attention to additives and tolerability
Choose products without unnecessary fillers, binders, preservatives or anti‑caking agents wherever possible, especially if you have intolerances. Gluten‑free and lactose‑free formulations can be a good choice here.
Adhere exactly to the recommended daily dose and follow the instructions on the packaging – especially for additional ingredients such as bioflavonoids or green‑lipped mussel. If in doubt or in special health situations, consult your doctor or pharmacist to best support your vitality.