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Vitamins
Hi I have started taking vitamins and supplements over the past year or so. I'm a 56 year old woman. I am taking a multi mature over 50 vitamin, vitamin b12, Magnesium Glycinate, CoQ10 (because I hear it's good to take when you are on a statin) , Glucosamine and chondroitin (for some joint pain), and D3. My doctor is ok with me taking these. I started taking them because I feel like I'm getting "old" and maybe I'm lacking is some nutrients.
My question is: how do I know they are helping? I don't know that I feel any better. Also what brands are reliable.
Any suggestions are are appreciated!
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My approach to vitamins changed when I discovered deficiencies. (Had neurological symptoms from B12 deficiency) I’d get your levels checked, especially B12 and D. I need substantially more than what’s in a muti vitamin, as I don’t absorb them well. So, need injections or sublingual in B12. I do absorb the others. Also, check B6, as an excess in this can also cause damage.
I’m looking for a good brand now, as I now don’t trust just any brand now. I no longer think they are all equal. I hope someone who knows about this will chime in.
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3 Reactions@melissa123
It is best to get your vitamins and minerals through your diet, but if you're not, then vitamin and mineral supplements can help. In my case, I had surgery on stomach, so need supplements because my body does not absorb enough from food. I think sometimes people take to many vitamins because they see an advertisement or based on friends advice. I am glad you discussed with your provider to make sure they did not interact with other medications.
Found two articles that might answer some of your questions:
Why take vitamins?
https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/why-take-vitamin-and-mineral-supplements
This website is good reference to different supplements and what they do, interactions, etc…
https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements
It is hard to know if vitamins are making a difference. A blood test may help determine if you are getting enough vitamins, or you can stop taking and see if you feel any different.
Also, check your multivitamin to see what vitamins are included, you may not need the additional vitamins if included in multivitamins.
Do you think your not getting enough vitamins through your diet?
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5 Reactions@melissa123
You may also benefit from seeing a nutritionist/dietitian to check your diet and make changes where it will help you.
Have you tried supplementing with multi collagen protein? It helps with dry skin, hair, nails, joints. I’m also trying some of the organic fruit and vegetable powder supplements and adding to my protein drinks to see if they help me feel better by getting a better variety of fruits/vegetables than I would normally eat.