Unless you're on a balanced raw foods diet, vitamins are important

Ideally, our diets would be highly varied and consist of unprocessed foods and lots of fruits and vegetables. Unfortunately for the majority of us, including myself, this just isn't the case. Time, willingness and money are all hinderances to getting the nutrition we need for optimal health.

This is why some supplements are important. If we can't get the nutrients we need from our diet, the next best thing is through vitamins and other supplements. Take omega-3 for example. Normally we would get it by eating fish and flax seeds. However the mercury levels in fish these days make it a little dangerous to eat large quantities of fish. And how many of us add flax seeds to our meals?

There are lots of specially formulated supplements, geared towards conditions like osteoporosis, menopause, pre-natal, and women's vitamins. Considering the volume and variety of supplements for women that are available, you should be aware of any possible overlap or conflict that some of these might have. For example, calcium will inhibit the absorption of iron. This doesn't mean you shouldn't take them. It just means it's best to consult with a doctor what supplements are most suitable for you.

My doctor recommends 1200mg of calcium daily. What does yours tell you?