Over the past few decades, we’ve learnt more and more about the importance of vitamins and the effects they have on our bodies. We’re now all very familiar with the concept of vitamins and multivitamin supplements; enough research has been conducted to confirm that they are suitable for certain people and certain situations.
What a lot of people don’t know, however, is that the knowledge surrounding vitamins never used to be this extensive. Back in the early 1900’s, we didn’t even know that nutrients existed!
Let’s take a look at the rise of the multivitamins, in order to establish exactly when the world started paying attention to them.
What Are Multivitamins?
Multivitamins are nutritional supplements that consist of a variation of different vitamins and minerals. This distinguishes them against normal supplements, as normal supplements only contain one type of vitamin (or target one specific area).
Although not taken by everyone, multivitamins are recommended to those with specific nutritional needs or those struggling to obtain enough nutrients through their diet.
When Did People Start Taking Multivitamins?
The history of multivitamins dates all the way back to 1912. During this time, it was thought to believe that there were only three “essential nutrients”. However, people were getting more unwell than ever before, and it was soon found that there were other nutrients to be aware of.
During the 1940’s, the first daily multivitamin came onto the scene. Although many were promoted for profitable purposes, the marketing of these products increased the awareness surrounding nutritional needs.
Do You Need Multivitamins?
Most people can get all of their essential vitamins through the foods that they eat. After all, your body only requires small amounts of each vitamin to function normally. With this in mind, not everyone needs to take a multivitamin.
Although not necessary for everyone, a lot of people choose to take multivitamins as a way to safeguard their nutritional needs. The UK Department of Health advises those at risk of a deficiency to take supplements, including:
- Everyone in the UK to take vitamin D
- During pregnancy
Vitamin D: Vitamin D is the only vitamin that is generated via the sun. When your skin is exposed to strong enough sunlight, a reaction happens that produces vitamin D. However, there’s a lot of emphasis on the phrase “strong enough”. In the UK, particularly during winter, the sun isn’t strong enough to produce vitamin D. This is why the Department of Health advises everyone to take a vitamin D supplement during these darker months.
During Pregnancy: When pregnant, it is likely that you will be recommended to take a folic acid supplement. You may also have to take a whole series of other supplements to support your increased nutritional needs. For more information, check out this guide.
Multivitamins have been around for quite some time, however each year, they become all the more advanced. We have scientists and research to thank for that! Do you take multivitamins?