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Do we really need to take vitamin supplements to stay healthy? Or can we get enough of the nutrient I need just by eating a balanced diet?

Well, my friend, it isn't easy. You can ask anyone who hates eating their green leafy vegetables and who balks at the though of eating broccoli for dinner.

Vitamins, multivitamins and supplements have been proven to provide a vast range of health benefits for your entire body.

A 2002 Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) study supports this claim. This conference, composed of experts from top research universities, experts from government agencies, and health advocacy organizations came to the conclusion that most Americans do not get the optimal level of important nutrients though diet alone. They recommended that multivitamins can well compensate for any gaps so that the necessary amount of nutrients needed by the body are met.

Not only are vitamins an accessible and affordable way to meet dietary requirements, they also provide other cost benefits.

A study entitled 'Multi-Vitamins and Public Health' illustrated this. The results of the study indicated that in older adults, a daily regimen of taking vitamin supplements could provide more than $1.6 million in Medicare savings over the next five years. In addition, there are possible savings because of lesser hospitalizations for cancer, infection and heart attack.

Vitamins, Essential Minerals, Anti-oxidants and Herbs

In this day and age, we are faced with pressures brought about by the modern world, in addition to the presence of free radicals. These put our bodies under so much pressure.

Vitamins can help as they ensure that we are ready to face the world and the pressures it brings. There is a wide variety of vitamins and antioxidants that can combat sickness and infection. Vitamin C ensures overall health and immunity. Vitamin E also enhances overall bodily health as well as cardiovascular and immune functions.

Essential Minerals include calcium (for muscle and bone health), magnesium (for healthy nerves and heart) and zinc (which boosts immune functions, cardiovascular, prostate and eye health).

Antioxidants such as coenzyme Q10, selenium and many others serve to defend our bodies from free radicals. Coenzyme Q10 helps in the producing cellular energy as well as ensuring heart and liver health. Selenium shows promise in reducing certain degenerative diseases such as cancer. It also promotes immune functioning. There are so many more that offer amazing health benefits.

Add to this list herbs that possess medicinal qualities. These should also be included in your armada to fight against sickness and free radicals. Chief among the herbs is garlic, which provides cardiovascular, cholesterol and blood pressure support. Ginseng on the other hand, gives energy and enhances endurance. Gingko biloba show promise in enhancing brain and memory function as well as providing support in the circulation of blood to extremities and the brain.

Indeed, there is supplement for almost any health concern.