Vitamin supplements are often seen as an easy way to support health, immunity, or energy levels. However, medical experts warn that improper use of vitamins can not only negate their benefits, but also cause harm to the body.
One of the most common mistakes is taking supplements without first getting tested. Doctors recommend getting a blood test first to determine your actual nutrient levels. Without testing, people often take vitamins “just in case,” even if they already get enough from their diet.
An equally common mistake is to consider supplements as a replacement for a full diet. Even high-quality complexes cannot compensate for the deficiency of nutrients in the daily menu. Vitamins only supplement the diet in case of a confirmed deficiency.
Another important aspect is the correct dosage. The belief that “more is better” does not work when it comes to vitamins. Excessive consumption can cause side effects, from dry lips, headaches, and nausea to serious problems, including liver damage.
Experts advise choosing supplements carefully: check the composition, presence of allergens, storage conditions and expiration date. It is also important to follow the rules for taking and combining vitamins. For example, fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K are better absorbed with food containing fats. Vitamin C improves the absorption of iron, but can reduce the absorption of B12 if taken at the same time. Vitamin K can affect the effect of blood thinners, so in such cases, a doctor's consultation is required.
Doctors emphasize that the recommended daily allowances take into account the intake of vitamins from all sources - food, drinks and supplements. Therefore, additional intake is not always necessary. It is also important to monitor the body's reaction: if side effects appear, you should stop taking it and consult a doctor.
In general, experts agree: vitamin supplements can be useful only with a balanced approach. Tests, specialist consultation, correct dosage and combination will help make taking vitamins safe and effective.
