Your need for vitamin supplementation increases when you are…

• Eating an unbalanced diet.  This is common among the elderly, those with dental problems, and those who cannot afford the right foods.

•  Suffering from lactose intolerance.  Symptoms of lactose intolerance include gas, cramps, diarrhea, and/or bloating after consuming a dairy product.

• Over the age of 50.  Stomach acid and intrinsic factor production begins to decline with age.  This reduced acidity limits vital nutrients’ absorption.

• Pregnant, of childbearing age, or nursing.  Providing nutrition for two may necessitate the use of a multivitamin or prenatal formula.

• Linked to a family history of colon cancer, heart disease, prostate cancer, or Parkinson’s disease.  Certain vitamins can help manage these diseases.

• Diagnosed with elevated homocysteine levels.  Because homocysteine is associated with cardiovascular complications, cardio protective supplements are recommended.

• Experiencing iron deficiency anemia.  This precipitates in fatigue, dizziness, weak, and/or pale.

• Living with an intestinal disorder such as irritable bowel syndrome or chronic pancreatitis.  These disorders may cause diarrhea and inhibit proper nutrient absorption.

• Losing weight.  When dieting, foods are often eliminated from the diet.  It is important that no nutrient levels become deficient.

• A strict vegetarian.  Certain nutrients must be obtained from meat sources, as a vegetarian these nutrients will need to be incorporated in the diet through supplements.

• Taking multiple medications.  Certain medications deplete levels of specific nutrients within the body.

reference: www.bellybytes.com/articles/vitamins.html