Multivitamin
Fill general nutrient gaps from an incomplete diet; nutritional insurance rather than treatment
Forms
Tablets, capsules, gummies, powders; formulated for age/sex-specific needs (men's, women's, senior, prenatal)
Advantages
Convenient; broad-spectrum coverage; widely available and affordable
Disadvantages
Not a substitute for a balanced diet; doses often too low to correct diagnosed deficiencies; gummies often contain added sugar and lack minerals
Side effects
Nausea if taken on an empty stomach; rarely, mild GI upset
Interactions
Iron and calcium content may interact with thyroid medication and certain antibiotics if taken together
At-risk groups
People with restrictive diets, older adults, pregnant women (prenatal-specific formulas), those recovering from illness
Cautions
Check for overlapping nutrients if also taking single-nutrient supplements to avoid excess, especially vitamin A and iron
Educational information only — not medical advice. This content does not diagnose, treat, or replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Always seek professional medical advice for symptoms, supplement use, or health concerns.