multi-vitamins - modern day snake oil?
 

I've heard of studies that show the vitamins injested through food is actually different (i.e. better) than those taken in pill form.

On average, I'll have 2 servings of fruit and 2 servings of vegetables a day. Thats far below the recommended so I also take a multi-vitamin every day as well.

But sometimes I wonder if those vitamins actually do anything or if they are just a waste of money. I dont really feel any different, whether I take them or not.

I have heard and read nutritional stories about this too. I wouldn't say it's a waste. I believe the vitamins and minerals digested through food are of a better quality than those found in multi-vitamins.

If you eat enough food with the right nutrients, you shouldn't need the pills. If you don't, the pills do add some vitamins, but probably not as good as the real stuff.....

I have been taking Centrum for about 10 years. Ever since I started taking them I have been sick less and recover much faster.

The pills provide a placebo (sp) effect. The foods eaten everyday provide the vitamins and mineral we need. The only thing that may lack in most diets is calcium. Most other foods have been enriched, bread and other grain products, or already have more than enough for the daily recommended intakes.