Multivitamin supplements cause weight loss!

Find out what diet expert Dr Neha has to say.

By: Dr Neha Sanwalka | | Updated: February 2, 2016 10:35 am

Multivitamins or mineral supplements are often prescribed by physicians when you have a deficiency or are unable to meet your daily requirement with food. But did you know these can also aid in weight loss? Also Read - Do we really need multivitamins and supplements after 30?

Also Read - B vitamins can boost metabolism and rejuvenate your nervous system

Do multivitamin or mineral supplements have any weight loss effects? Also Read - Here is why going overboard with healthy habits could be dangerous

Individuals having these supplements have higher chances of meeting their daily requirements of various vitamins and minerals. As a result, they tend to have better functioning of various bodily functions and improved metabolism which in turn assists weight loss. They also have lower body-fat percentage and decreased appetite as compared to those who do not take these supplements.

How do multivitamins work for weight loss?

These supplements work in various ways to help reduce weight:

Vitamins like B1, B2, B3 and B6 which are an integral part of multivitamins are essential for digestion. So an individual consuming multivitamin supplements has an improved digestion and thus has a better control on their weight
Lack of some nutrients like B6 and zinc reduces the level of serotonin produced from the brain which in turn leads to an increase in appetite. So taking a multivitamin-mineral supplement will help reduce appetite and control weight
Other nutrients like calcium bind with excess fat in the intestine and reduce absorption of fat and thereby help control weight.
Some nutrients also regulate metabolism and keep blood sugar in control and assist weight management.

Hence, it is a combination of various mechanisms that help fasten the weight loss process when consuming multivitamin-mineral supplements. Also, read whether multivitamins can lower heart risk.

Would these supplements work without a proper diet and physical activity?

These supplements work the best when combined with a well-balanced diet with adequate protein intake. Also, regular physical exercise is essential for fast and sustained weight loss.

How many multivitamins should one have?

For most supplements, the dosage is that of one capsule/day. As most of these supplements have a higher amount than the prescribed daily allowance of nutrients, it is wise to have these supplements 6 times a week. This would ensure that a person doesn t over-consume the nutrients.

What is the right time to eat multivitamin supplements?

If it s a multivitamin, multi-mineral supplement, it should be consumed either one hour before or one hour after food consumption and should not be consumed with meals. However, if you are having only multivitamin supplement, it can be consumed with food too.

Can one have multivitamin supplements available over the counter?

Yes. These supplements are available OTC and can be purchased without a doctor’s prescription. However, I would advise against it because when purchased OTC without a doctor’s prescription, an individual cannot ascertain the right amount of dosage and the possible side-effects the supplements can cause. Hence, any kind of supplement should be consumed under medical supervision only. Do you need protein isolates? Click to find out.

Who should not have multivitamin supplements?

People who have multiple allergies, especially gluten and lactose allergy should avoid consuming these supplements as often these are used as binders in these supplements.
Also, individuals who are prone to kidney stones should avoid consuming multi-mineral supplement without a doctor’s prescription.
Pregnant women should not consume supplements containing vitamin A without doctor s recommendation, as excess vitamin A increases the risk of birth defects.
Even smokers should avoid vitamin A supplements as excess amounts of vitamin A increases the risk of lung cancer in smokers. Also read this complete guide of vitamin supplements – benefits and side-effects.

Image source: Shutterstock

Disclaimer text TheHealthSite.com does not guarantee any weight loss through this method as the results may vary from person to person. We recommend you consult your nutritionist and physician before following any of the tips suggested here.

Published : August 12, 2015 6:35 pm | Updated:February 2, 2016 10:35 am

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