what vitamins should i take

Recently, I have started a new healthy life style. Along with eating healthy food, I take several vitamins a day. I take 1 multi-vitamin, 2 calcium, 3 fish oil, 1 vitamin c, 1 vitamin e, 2 resveritrol, and 1 inositol. I was wondering if thy are vitamins I should be taking, or if I should eliminate some of them. If so, which ones.

[James G Beckerman, M.D.]

Taking supplements is a personal issue.  While it's true that a well-balanced diet should give you the nutrition you need, there is data to support the use of supplements in some situations.

First, I generally recommend against Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and Vitamin E supplements.  I don't think the data supports their use, and as Jaquta suggests, there could be some risks, particularly with A and E.

Some supplements that do appear to be beneficial include Vitamin D, Calcium, and Fish Oil.  Probiotics and Whey Protein can be helpful as well.  Some food "supplements" include pine nuts and flaxseeds.

It's very important to discuss any supplement use with your doctor to make sure they're right for you and don't interact with your medications.  Take care!

[Jaquta]

I saw a documentary recently that said that vitamins in excess can be dangerous.  The most concerning seemed to be high levels of vitamin A and vitamin E.
I would recommend getting your nutrients from your daily diet.
The doctor is better able to advise.  And always has useful advice.
Well done on your recent changes.