Are Multivitamins Worth It: A Pharmacist Explains

A lot of people take vitamins or supplements to stay healthy, boost their energy, or try to prevent colds—but do they really help?

According to Kayla Hendrickson, a pharmacist at Perham Health, vitamins and supplements can play a role—but they aren’t the right fit for everyone.

Why Consider Vitamins and Supplements

Our bodies change over time, and so do our needs. That’s one reason vitamins and supplements can be helpful for some people.

“Needs really depend on the person, their age, diet, and overall health,” says Hendrickson.

Most people can get what they need from a balanced diet. But that’s not always easy. If you’re a picky eater or have food restrictions, you might not get enough of certain nutrients.

Some people may also benefit more than others. For example, this could include people who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, are pregnant or planning to be, are over age 60, or have a condition that makes it harder for their bodies to absorb nutrients. In those cases, vitamins and supplements can help fill in the gaps.

Pros and Cons of Vitamins and Supplements

Vitamins and supplements can offer extra support for your body. They may help with energy, immune health, and bone strength—especially if your body needs more support due to age, diet, or certain health conditions.

But here’s the important part—they’re not a replacement for healthy eating.

Foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains do more than just provide vitamins. They also give your body fiber and antioxidants, which you can’t get from a pill.

It’s also important to remember that more isn’t always better.

“Taking too much of any vitamin, especially vitamins A, D, E, and K, can actually be harmful,” Hendrickson explains.

And while supplements can support your health, they’re not a cure-all. Research shows they don’t strongly prevent long-term diseases in people who are otherwise healthy.

Another thing to keep in mind is that some vitamins can interact with medications. For example, vitamin K can affect how blood thinners work. That’s why it’s always a good idea to check with your healthcare provider before starting something new.

Best Practices for Taking Vitamins and Supplements

If you’re thinking about adding vitamins or supplements, a few simple steps can help you do it safely.

Start by talking with your healthcare provider. They can help you choose something that fits your age, health, and specific needs.

It’s also a good idea to look for trusted brands that have been tested by a third party. Try to avoid high-dose or “mega” vitamins unless your provider recommends them.

Reading the label matters, too. Pay attention to the daily value and the serving size so you don’t take more than you need.

You can also talk with your pharmacist. They can answer questions about when to take a supplement, whether to take it with food, and if it’s safe to take with other medications.

Most importantly, keep your focus on your overall diet. Vitamins and supplements should support healthy eating—not replace it.

Bottom Line

At the end of the day, vitamins and supplements can be helpful—but they’re not a magic solution.

Eating balanced meals, staying active, and keeping up with regular checkups are still the best ways to take care of your health.