The ABCs of Vitamins & Minerals

Walk down the vitamin aisle and it is easy to feel overwhelmed. There are hundreds of bottles, each one promising something. Vitamins and minerals are important for good health, but more is not always better. Here is a simple guide to what they do and how to decide whether you need a supplement.

What vitamins and minerals do

Vitamins and minerals are nutrients your body needs in small amounts to work properly. They help build bones, heal wounds, support the immune system, turn food into energy and much more. Most people can get what they need from a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy or dairy alternatives, and proteins.

A quick look at some common ones

Here are a few nutrients people often ask us about:

• Vitamin A supports vision and the immune system
• B vitamins help the body use energy, and B12 supports nerves and blood cells
• Vitamin C supports the immune system and helps heal wounds
• Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium for strong bones
• Calcium supports bones, teeth, muscles and nerves
• Iron helps carry oxygen in the blood
• Magnesium supports muscles, nerves and heart rhythm
• Potassium helps control blood pressure and fluid balance

Who may need a supplement

Some people may benefit from a supplement, such as pregnant people, older adults, people who follow certain diets, people with some medical conditions, and those who take medicines that affect nutrient levels. For example, some long term medicines can lower levels of certain vitamins. Your doctor may check your levels with a blood test.

A supplement is meant to fill a gap, not replace healthy food. Ask before you buy, and buy only what you need.

Some vitamins and minerals can build up in the body and cause harm in large amounts. Supplements can also interact with prescription medicines. For example, vitamin K can affect certain blood thinners, and calcium or iron can affect how some medicines are absorbed if taken at the same time. Some herbal products can interact with many medicines.

Supplements are not reviewed the same way as prescription medicines. Look for products that have been tested by an independent organization, and be cautious of products that make big promises.

How we can help

At our pharmacy, we carry affordable, quality vitamins and supplements. More importantly, we can help you figure out which ones may benefit you, especially if you take maintenance medicines for conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol. We will check for interactions and help you time your supplements so they do not affect your other medicines.

Bring your bottles to a free medication review and we will go through them with you, in English or Spanish.

Call us at 661.941.4402 to schedule a free medication review.

This article is general education, not medical advice.