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FactuallyVegan
Frequently Asked Question
Health

“Most people should take a multivitamin” (careful claim)

Last reviewed: January 9, 2026

Summary

Evidence does **not** strongly support universal multivitamin use for preventing cardiovascular disease or cancer, and recommendations vary. However, many people have nutrient shortfalls (e.g., vitamin D, iodine depending on salt use) and targeted supplementation can be appropriate—especially for vegans with B12.

Evidence Summary

  • USPSTF finds insufficient evidence for broad multivitamin use to prevent major chronic diseases in general adults.
  • Nutrient shortfalls exist; targeted supplementation may be reasonable based on risk, diet, labs, and clinician guidance. Evidence quality: Moderate–High Limitations / nuance: This is public-health guidance; individual needs vary. Bottom line: Don’t oversell universal multivitamins; do emphasize targeted supplementation where evidence supports it (notably B12 for
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Supporting Evidence

USPSTF finds insufficient evidence for broad multivitamin use to prevent major chronic diseases in general adults.

Sources:

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