During the Covid-19 pandemic, there was a surge in the consumption of multivitamins, as many doctors prescribed certain vitamins to help combat the virus. However, with the pandemic under control, the trend of taking multivitamins persists, and many still believe that these supplements can help maintain health. But is this belief valid?

General medicine expert Dr. Arindam Biswas explains that taking multivitamins without medical advice is unnecessary, especially if one is not severely ill or experiencing a significant nutritional deficiency. Doctors typically recommend vitamins only when needed, to help patients recover quickly. There are numerous vitamin supplements available in the market, some of which can be purchased without a prescription. However, taking these without guidance may not offer any benefit and could even harm the body.

Experts emphasize that the body gets its nutritional requirements from natural food sources. Foods like rice, vegetables, fruits, nuts, fish, and dairy products are rich in essential vitamins and minerals. For instance, vitamin C can be obtained from citrus fruits, while B vitamins are found in grains and legumes. Doctors and nutritionists assert that consuming a balanced diet is sufficient to meet one’s nutritional needs, and multivitamins are not necessary unless prescribed by a healthcare professional.