To stay healthy, the best strategy is to eat a wide variety of nutrient-rich foods. However, supplements cannot replace healthy foods, which provide countless disease-fighting compounds. Nevertheless, some people may benefit, for one reason or another, from strengthening their diet with a daily vitamin and mineral supplement.

In some cases, it may be difficult to meet daily nutrient needs through diet alone. Stress, work demands, and a lack of time and energy can be barriers to healthy eating. Taking a daily supplement ensures that the recommended intake of most vitamins and minerals is met.

This is especially true for women who menstruate and have higher iron needs, and for people following a reduced-calorie diet. Women of childbearing age—especially those trying to become pregnant—must ensure they meet their folic acid requirements to help prevent birth defects such as spina bifida. In addition, adults over age 50 are advised to take a vitamin B12 supplement or consume fortified foods, as the ability to absorb this vitamin from food decreases with age.

If you believe you could benefit from taking a vitamin and mineral supplement, speak with your dietitian or doctor so they can recommend the product best suited to your needs. If you are taking medications, ask about possible interactions between them and supplements.