The pharmacist explained why he is cautious when it comes to recommending multivitamins
People who take a daily multivitamin tablet might want to reconsider their choice, according to a pharmacist. Pyramid Pharmacy’s Amir Bhogal has said he would never recommend them to patients. The UK pharmacist explained his reasoning in a TikTok post, where he has amassed thousands of followers under the username @Amirthepharmacist.
In his educational videos, Amir often discusses questions he’s been asked as a pharmacist, covering topics such as hay fever, hangovers, and vitamin deficiencies. In one video, Amir shared a post titled: “Why I would never recommend multivitamins.”
In the post, the pharmacist claimed: “They usually have too much of what you need or not enough of what you need.” Amir continued: “Instead, we recommend getting a blood test, figuring out exactly what you’re deficient in, and getting vitamins of just those.”
In his caption, the expert added: “Multivitamins aren’t always the answer. As a pharmacist, it’s best to identify what your body may actually be lacking and choose supplements that are tailored to you.”
According to the NHS, vitamins and minerals are nutrients that help the body to stay healthy and work properly. “Most people should get all the nutrients they need by having a varied and balanced diet, although some people may need to take extra supplements.” Children and pregnant women, for instance, may require additional supplementation.
On the NHS website, the health authority shares a guide detailing the importance of getting enough vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K, calcium, iodine, and iron. It explains the functions of each vitamin and mineral, and why they are important for a healthy lifestyle.
For example, the NHS explains that vitamin A helps your body defend itself against illness and infection. Meanwhile, vitamin D helps maintain healthy bones, teeth, and muscles, and iron supports red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body.
For each vitamin or mineral, the NHS highlights the recommended dose, its uses, and good sources to add it to your diet. It’s important to follow the guidance closely and always speak to a GP about any health concerns, as some vitamins and minerals can be harmful if taken in excess.
It’s also important to follow the directions provided with any supplements you take. In another video, Amir explained some of the common reasons why someone might feel like their vitamins aren’t working – and it could come down to how you take them.
Answering a question from a social media user who said their vitamins weren’t having the desired effect, Amir said: “Firstly, have you had a blood test and made sure that you’re actually taking the supplement you might be deficient in? The second thing is, are you taking them correctly?
“Some supplements and vitamins need to be taken at specific times of the day or with or without food. And the last thing is, have you given it enough time to actually start working? Some vitamins and supplements need to be taken for about three months before you even notice any difference. Also, make sure you’re taking good quality vitamins and supplements.”
