Who needs a multivitamin and mineral supplement?

Those who need a multivitamin and mineral include people on restrictive diets (such as those who are dieting), pregnant women, people whom smoke, and people who consume excess alcohol. In addition, if you exercise, take multiple medications, and are elderly you may also need a daily multivitamin. In fact, just about everyone needs a daily vitamin since many studies and surveys have shown that many Americans simply do not get enough of the nutrients needed on a daily basis. For example, in a survey done in the year 2000, fewer than half of Americans aged 51-85 received the recommended intakes for calcium, folic acid, vitamin E, and vitamin D. It has also been estimated that most people in the United States, on the average, get only 8 IU per day of Vitamin E, which is below recommended levels. The lack of vitamin E can be extremely significant as vitamin E is one of the body’s main defenses against destructive free radicals. These free radicals attack cell structures and cause cell damage. This can lead to disease. Vitamin E is one of the main antioxidants that we have to help fight these free radicals and ultimately prevent the onset of certain diseases.

Are the elderly more sensitive to nutrient deficiencies?

Deficiencies of vitamins and minerals have been observed in approximately 33% of all elderly. In a study of 130 adults, from North Carolina, aged 70 years and older, 65% were found to be deficient for at least one nutrient of the eight examined. If the elderly are in long-term care facilities, the likelihood of deficiencies is even more significant, with approximately 60% of these patients being malnourished. In another study of eight countries consisting of approximately 1,000 people between the ages of 74-79, an inadequate intake of 1 or more nutrients was found in approximately 24% of men and 47% of women. . In one study the mineral zinc was found to be deficient in 43% of the people evaluated. In over 30% of the people in the study, calcium, vitamin E, and vitamin B6 were found to be inadequate. The elderly are more sensitive to deficiencies because as a person becomes older, the ability to taste and smell decreases. This can ultimately lead to changes in a person’s diet. Additionally, the elderly often experience a loss of appetite and an increased use of dentures, which can contribute to an inadequate nutrient intake. Also, once a person gets to be over the age of 65 years, the body has difficulty absorbing certain vital nutrients such as vitamins B-6, B-12, zinc, and vitamin D. In addition, the elderly simply do not eat enough food. This is often due to finances, isolation, depression, disability, etc.

Can nutritional deficiencies lead to disease and weaken the immune system?

It has been demonstrated that deficiencies of vitamins and minerals can lead to a wide variety of diseases including cardiovascular disease, anemias, osteoporosis, connective tissue diseases, and even certain types of cancers. Malnutrition is the most common cause of a weakened immune system found throughout the world. Immune responses are reduced when nutritional deficiencies are present. One study demonstrated that having a reduced nutritional status (undernutrition), such as a vitamin or calorie deficiency, appears to lead to early hospitalization and impaired health status overall.

Can taking a multivitamin and mineral improve my health?

There is evidence that taking a multivitamin and mineral supplement can have a positive effect on health. Women who have a family history of colon cancer have double the risk of acquiring the disease. In a study of over 88,000 women it was found that those who took a multivitamin containing 400mcg of folic acid eliminated this doubled risk. (XtraHealth's Daily Dose contains 400mcg of folic acid). In another study, elderly people taking a multivitamin and mineral supplement for 1 year improved their immune responses. In addition, taking a multivitamin with slightly higher levels of various antioxidants resulted in fewer sick days for people compared to those who did not take the multivitamin.

Should I take XtraHealth Daily Dose?

At Supplement Doctors we believe that every person can benefit from a daily multiple vitamin and mineral supplement. The key is to consume the vitamins and minerals in the correct ratios and quantities. The XtraHealth Daily Dose is a complete and balanced formula that provides 28 essential vitamins and minerals that the body needs on a daily basis. Daily Dose contains antioxidants such as vitamins A, C and E as well as the minerals zinc and selenium, which may help maintain your body’s immunity. It also contains vitamins D and the minerals calcium and magnesium, which play an important role in bone health. Folic acid, and vitamins B6 and B12 may help maintain a healthy heart. And finally, Chromium, magnesium and the B vitamins can help increase energy.

TAKE XTRAHEALTH’S DAILY DOSE EACH AND EVERY DAY