Vitamins - What To Take - A Guide

Vitamins are molecules that control and regulate many of the biochemical proteins in our body. Most of them were discovered in the 1920's - 40's. Here are some guidelines.

1. As we get older, our absorption decreases and so vitamins and supplements become more important.


2. We can only absorb so many vitamins at one time. Taking large amounts of one type can block the absorption of another.


3. Food allergies, colitis, ileitus and mobility disorders all interfere with vitamin absorption. So does decreased stomach acid or the regular use of stomach acid suppressant pills.


4. Certain drugs block absorption of certain nutrients. Statin drugs (such as Lipitor) interfere with absorption of CoQ10. Check with the pharmacy or doctor.


5. Prolonged use of antibiotics kills off beneficial gut bacteria which produce some natural nutrients. Probiotics are very important.


6. The RDA - The recommended daily allowance is an average figure. It does not take into account your individual needs of absorption.


7. I don't like the A-Z multivitamins. Too little of what you really need, too much of what you don't need.


8. It is easy to manufacture inexpensive and inferior forms of most vitamins. Beware of the bargains.


9. There are many tests to determine your vitamin needs and absorption. You don't have to guess or waste money.


10. Vitamins should come from food. Unfortunately our foods are overly processed, preserved, contain additives for freshness (if its old, spoiled or preserved, I want to know about it). So who is going to eat 3lbs. of brocolli and drink a gallon of OJ daily? - That's why we need supplements.