Highlights

• Water-soluble vitamins (Vitamin C and B vitamins): These are not stored in the body and are excreted in urine. This makes toxicity from overconsumption less likely, but also means they need to be consumed regularly.

• Fat-soluble vitamins (Vitamins A, D, E, and K): These are stored in the body's fatty tissues and liver. Because they are stored, they can accumulate to toxic levels if taken in very high doses over time. This is why it's crucial to be mindful of the dosages of these vitamins in any supplement you take.

Ingredients

The ingredients in a multivitamin can vary significantly from one product to another, as there is no single, standardized formula. However, most quality multivitamins are designed to provide a broad range of essential vitamins and minerals that are important for overall health.

Here is a breakdown of the common ingredients you'll find, often divided into fat-soluble vitamins, water-soluble vitamins, and minerals.

Vitamins

Fat-Soluble Vitamins (A, D, E, and K) These are stored in the body and are crucial for various functions.

• Vitamin A: Important for vision, immune function, and cell growth. It's often included as retinol or beta-carotene.

• Vitamin D: Essential for calcium absorption, bone health, and immune system support. Many people are deficient in Vitamin D, making it a key ingredient. It's usually present as D2 (ergocalciferol) or D3 (cholecalciferol).

• Vitamin E: A powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.

• Vitamin K: Necessary for blood clotting and bone health.

Water-Soluble Vitamins (B-complex and C) These are not stored in the body and need to be replenished regularly.

• Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid): A well-known antioxidant that supports the immune system, promotes wound healing, and helps with iron absorption.

• B-Complex Vitamins: A group of eight different vitamins, each with a unique role in metabolism and energy production.

  • B1 (Thiamin): Helps convert food into energy.

  • B2 (Riboflavin): Important for cell growth and red blood cell production.

  • B3 (Niacin): Plays a role in maintaining healthy skin and nerves.

  • B5 (Pantothenic Acid): Essential for metabolism and hormone production.

  • B6 (Pyridoxine): Crucial for brain function and red blood cell formation.

  • B7 (Biotin): Supports the metabolism of proteins and carbohydrates, and is often associated with healthy hair and skin.

  • B9 (Folate/Folic Acid): Vital for DNA production and cell growth, especially important for pregnant women to prevent birth defects.

  • B12 (Cobalamin): Essential for nerve function, red blood cell formation, and DNA synthesis. This is a particularly important ingredient for vegetarians and vegans, as it's primarily found in animal products.

Minerals

Minerals are inorganic elements that the body needs for various physiological functions.

• Calcium: Fundamental for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth.

• Magnesium: Involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including nerve and muscle function, blood pressure regulation, and bone health.

• Zinc: Supports the immune system, wound healing, and the senses of taste and smell.

• Iron: A crucial component of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood. It's often included in multivitamins for women of childbearing age who are at a higher risk of deficiency.

• Iodine: Essential for proper thyroid function and hormone production.

• Selenium: An antioxidant that protects cells from damage.

• Copper: Needed for energy production and immune function.

• Manganese, Chromium, and Molybdenum: These are trace minerals that are needed in very small amounts for various metabolic processes.

Other Potential Ingredients

Many specialized multivitamins, such as those for athletic performance, vision, or anti-aging, may also include other ingredients:

• Antioxidants: Such as lutein and zeaxanthin for eye health, or coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10).

• Herbal Extracts: Ingredients like ginseng or ginkgo biloba.

• Probiotics: To support gut health.

• Amino Acids: Building blocks of protein.

Uses

5ml a day or as directed by the Physician/ Dietician

Other Information

as