Weighing In: Should I take a multivitamin?

Question: Do I need to take a multivitamin?

Answer: If you eat a well-balanced diet and do not have any health conditions than you probably do not need to take a multivitamin. Be sure to eat foods from all the food groups and try to follow the dietary guidelines, which recommend a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products and lean protein sources.

There are some situations that may warrant adding a vitamin to your daily routine. If you are pregnant or breast-feeding and are not taking a prenatal vitamin you should speak with your physician to ensure that you are getting enough folic acid. If you are a vegetarian you may benefit from a vitamin with calcium, iron, zinc and vitamins B12 and D.

Find healthy and well-balanced meal ideas at FoodFit.com.