Who needs supplements?

You likely don't need supplements if you're a healthy adult who eats a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, low-fat dairy products, lean meats and fish.

But supplements — or fortified foods — may be appropriate if you:

• Are pregnant or are trying to get pregnant
• Are age 50 or older
• Have a poor appetite or have trouble getting nutritious foods
• Follow a diet that excludes entire food groups
• Have a medical condition that affects how your body digests nutrients, such as chronic diarrhea, food allergies, food intolerance, or a disease of the liver, gallbladder, intestines or pancreas
• Have had surgery on your digestive tract that affects how your body digests nutrients

If you're wondering whether you need a vitamin and mineral supplement, talk to your doctor or dietitian. Be sure to ask about dosage, side effects and possible interactions with any medications you take.