Vitamins - Introduction

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The FDA does not require manufacturers to provide any scientific evidence that dietary supplements are safe and effective before a product is sold (unlike drugs, which must be proven both safe and effective through clinical trials). If a supplement causes side effects in people once it is for sale, the government may place restrictions on the supplement or withdraw it from the market. The FDA may also withdraw products from the market if their labels are misleading or false.

People Who Should Take Vitamin Supplements

About 30% of Americans take at least one vitamin or mineral supplement daily. However, studies evaluating the population as a whole found no difference in mortality rates between people who took vitamin supplements and those who didn't. Most people who eat a healthy diet do not need vitamins, but there are some exceptions.

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Pregnant and Breast-feeding Women. Women who are pregnant or who are breast-feeding generally need additional vitamins. Folic acid and vitamins B6 and B12 are particularly important. Women who are vegetarians must be sure to avoid vitamin B12 deficiencies, which can harm their babies. Folic acid reduces the risk for neural tube defects and possibly facial abnormalities, such as cleft palate. Studies also show that low folate levels during pregnancy are associated with low birth weight, a risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease in adulthood. A woman's best approach is to take extra folic acid plus multivitamin supplements (which have additional benefits), starting them before becoming pregnant.

Pregnant women with healthy diets may have low folate levels and need to take supplements. Requirements are as follows:

• The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for folic acid prior to conception is 400 mcg, and during pregnancy it is 600 mcg.
• During breastfeeding 500 mcg is recommended.